Medtronic Simplera Sync
Omnipod
Summary
This is a disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems (e.g., MiniMed 780G). Typical wear time is 6 days, plus a 24-hour “grace period.” No routine fingersticks are required when the device is in closed-loop/SmartGuard mode.
FDA approved for ages 7+ on the back of the upper arm
MARD of ~9%
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
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament beneath the skin to continuously measure glucose every 5 minutes. Simple, one-step applicator makes insertion fast and easy.
Controller
Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) is used to give insulin doses to the pod.
Reservoir
Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.
Pump
Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.
Device Details
Overview
Disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems
This is a discreet pump option without tubing but will require a controller to dose.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Coverage depends on region and insurance; supplied via DME or specialty pharmacy.
$$$$
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
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Yes
Pump data can be accessed by clinicians on Diasend by Glooko.
Data View Options
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
No Options
Duration and Storage
6 Days
Sensors last 6 days, with a 24-hour grace period, and need about 2 hours to warm up. They work between 41°F – 104°F and should be stored between 36°F – 86°F. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 5–15 sensors at a time.
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
Multiple sound sources
Moderate dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Compact and integrated. Reducing bulk; compatibility with daily activities depends on the adhesive and body movement. Water-resistant up to 8 feet (2.4 m) for 30 minutes.
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
SmartGuard closed-loop. Pump adjustments use sensor data continuously to reduce 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.
Comfort
Low profile. No overtape needed and one-hand insertion.
Free of tubing. Pods do not have tubes like traditional insulin pumps, allowing for more freedom of movement.
Easy Insulin Dosing
SmartGuard technology. When paired with the MiniMed 780G, it automatically adjusts basal and gives correction boluses based on sensor readings. In manual mode, glucose values can guide dosing decisions, but fingersticks are required for confirmation.
Customizable dosing. Basal and Bolus in 0.05 increments. No interruption in insulin delivery (pods stay on during bathing and swimming).
Easy to Use
All-in-one. Eliminates the need for a separate transmitter, simplifying sensor changes (although more frequent due to the 6-day wear).
Fewer parts. The PDM has button navigation. Pod has fewer parts than tubed pumps.
Fewer Fingersticks
Calibration is optional. Perfect if you like having that choice.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Small and integrated, but visible on the back of the arm. No separate transmitter reduces the number of visible parts. Alerts and alarms can be adjusted for discretion.
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.