Omnipod GO Patch
Medtronic Simplera

Summary

The Omnipod GO is a patch pump that provides a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin in seven rates ranging from 10 to 40 units per day for up to 72 hours. This device is a standalone tubeless, waterproof pod that provides a convenient alternative to traditional insulin delivery methods.

FDA-approved for people 18 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes who need long-acting insulin injections.

*Omnipod GO is expected to be commercially available in the United States in 2024

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

Patch

Patch

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

Reservoir

Reservoir

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

Sensor

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.

Receiver

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

Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.

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 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.

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

Data Monitoring Options

No Options

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

72-Hours 
Patch can be worn for up to 72 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.

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

Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and waterproof. 

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

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

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. Patches do not have tubing.

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

Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.

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

Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin. 

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

Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. 

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