Omnipod Dash
Medtronic Simplera Sync
Summary
A tubeless, waterproof pump loved by kids and all who don't want tubes. A touchscreen smartphone-like 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.
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%
Components
Controller
Separate Android-like is used for manual insulin delivery via a tubeless pod. Data and notifications from the PDM are viewable on a compatible smartphone.
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.
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.
Device Details
Overview
This system includes a wearable, tubeless insulin Pod that's controlled by a smartphone-like Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM).
Disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies for Pump and Sensor provided by Pharmacy and/or DME suppliers. Price range; $5-$1260 to start and 0-$200/month. Touch-screen controller available in the starter kit at no additional cost.
$$$$
Coverage depends on region and insurance; supplied via DME or specialty pharmacy.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Omnipod data can be accessed by clinicians on Diasend by Glooko.
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Data View Options
Yes
The Omnipod DISPLAY app displays real-time data for the patient. The Omnipod VIEW app allows family and friends to view data for up to 12 Omnipod users. (iPhone compatible only)
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Duration and Storage
3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pods can be used for up to 72 hrs and work from 41ºF – 104ºF.
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.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
Moderate 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. Data monitoring allows others to track your data during physical activity.
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.
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 to avoid highs and the ability to set zero basal rates to avoid lows.
SmartGuard closed-loop. Pump adjustments use sensor data continuously to reduce highs and lows.
Comfort
Low profile & no tubing. Low profile sensor and Omnipod has no tubing but may require more adhesive on the body than other pumps.
Low profile. No overtape needed and one-hand insertion.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Manually adjusting dosing. Omnipod DASH System allows the user to manually input their blood glucose (BG) readings from any BGM or CGM device of their choice. Basal and bolus in 0.05 increments.
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.
Easy to Use
Fewer components. Pod has fewer components to deal with than other pumps and a touchscreen controller.
All-in-one. Eliminates the need for a separate transmitter, simplifying sensor changes (although more frequent due to the 6-day wear).
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Calibration is optional. Perfect if you like having that choice.
Privacy
Discreet. Sensor allows for checking blood glucose on phone/smartwatch. The pod is the most discreet pump option but requires a visible controller to bolus.
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.