simplera device
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Summary

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.

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. 

Components

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.

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.

Device Details

Overview

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

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

Affordability and Access

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

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

Data Monitoring Options

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

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

Data View 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. 

No Options 

Duration and Storage

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days. 

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

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

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

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

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

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

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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. 

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. 

Comfort

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.

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

Easy Insulin Dosing

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

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

Easy to Use

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

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

Fewer Fingersticks

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

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

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

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.