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simplera device

Summary

The OmniPod is the only tubeless pump option. A Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) is used to give insulin doses to the pod, which remains attached to the body. This pump is one of few that is completely waterproof. 

The Simplera continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is Medtronic’s first disposable, all-in-one CGM. This sensor lasts for 7 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed. 

FDA-approved for people with diabetes ages 2 years and older.

Components

Omnipod : Pump

Omnipod : Pump

Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.

Omnipod : Reservoir

Omnipod : Reservoir

Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.

Omnipod : Controller

Omnipod : Controller

Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) is used to give insulin doses to the pod.

Simplera : Sensor

Simplera : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5-minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Simplera : Receiver

Simplera : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.

Device Details

Overview

This is a discreet pump option without tubing but will require a controller to dose. 

The Simplera is Medtronic's smallest continuous glucose monitor. It's disposable and has a flat, square shape.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy or DME. Price range; 0-$200/month.

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. 

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Pump data can be accessed by clinicians on Diasend by Glooko.

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Care Partner web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. 

Data View Options

No Options 

Yes
Users must download the Simplera app to view and share data. Messages via the simplera app or text messages to notify care partners when glucose is high or low. 

Duration and Storage

3 Days
Pod can be worn for up to 72 hours and work from 41ºF – 104ºF.

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days. 

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts 
A LOT
of dexterity needed

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
SOME dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Waterproof. Wear the Pod in the shower, in the pool, or in the ocean. The PDM is not waterproof and must be charged daily. 

Waterproof when submerged in water and must be within range of the feet of the receiver or mobile device.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Personalized dosing. Pods can deliver personalized doses of rapid-acting insulin based on the rates programmed into the Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) device. The ability to set zero basal rates is not available. 

Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Comfort

Free of tubing. Pods do not have tubes like traditional insulin pumps, allowing for more freedom of movement.

Smaller size. The sensor is small and flat, and no overtape is required. Simplera’s adhesive is made from an anti-lint material that prevents sweat and water from reaching the sensor.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Customizable dosing. Basal and Bolus in 0.05 increments. No interruption in insulin delivery (pods stay on during bathing and swimming). 

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier. The device can be integrated with the Medtronic InPen, which offers a bolus calculator based on carb ratios, meal estimations, the amount of insulin on board, and fixed dosing regimens

Easy to Use

Fewer parts. The PDM has button navigation. Pod has fewer parts than tubed pumps.

No scanning is required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes.

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Somewhat discreet. The pod attaches directly to the body with no tubing, but the pod is bigger than an infusion set. Pod does not have vibrate option.

Discreet. Small, flat shape and ability to see sugar on a watch or phone.