Tandem Mobi
Meter
Summary
The Tandem Mobi is the smallest durable automated insulin delivery system available in the U.S. that can be fully controlled by a mobile device. The pump is equipped with an on-pump button for users to bolus insulin directly from the pump if they don’t want to do it from their phone. This system is combined with the Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to automatically adjust insulin delivery in response to glucose trends.
*Compatiblilty with Dexcom G7 now available
Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Fingersticks required.
Components
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Controller
Mobi pump receives CGM readings to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery via an infusion set. Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery.
Sensor
Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.
Pump
Small pump connects tubing to a 5 inch tubing patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Glucometer
The meter measures the amount of sugar in the small sample of blood that is placed on the disposable test strip. Most CGMs require testing blood sugar with a meter to calibrate the CGM device daily.
Test Strips
The strips work with the glucose meters to “read” blood sugar levels. One box of test trips usually contains between 25-50 single use strips.
Lancets
Tiny needle called a lancet is used to poke the skin (on a finger or on your arm) to get a small sample of blood. The lancing device is packaged with the glucometer.
Device Details
Overview
Tandem Mobi is the smallest insulin delivery system to be fully controlled by a smartphone.
Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Finger-sticks required.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Pump coverage is not yet available. Sensor is widely covered and provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. Sensor price range; $0-$500/month.
$$$$
Most accessible. Available over the counter at all Pharmacies. Price range; $0-$200/month depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
The t:connect mobile app for the t:slim X2 pump wirelessly uploads pump and CGM data to the cloud-based t:connect web application.
Limited Options
Data is available directly on the device. Some meters may be compatible with the Tidepool data management system.
Data View Options
Yes
Data can be viewed directly on the pump screen or on the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).
Yes
Data may be viewed directly on the device. Some meters contain a built-in USB connection that allows information to be uploaded to a data management system.
Duration and Storage
3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, battery life lasts five days with the use of CGM, and work between 40°F - 99°F. Pump supports wireless charging.
Daily
Meters can last several years with battery changes/charging, they're used daily and work between 65ºF-86°F
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Waterproof. The pump and CGM are waterproof and can be worn for most exercises.
Must pause activity to check blood sugar.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Auto basal and bolus insulin. Responds to CGM data by increasing or decreasing basal insulin delivery to prevent highs and lows and maintain a set blood glucose target.
Less data. Meters don't give as much blood sugar data as sensors do and require a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows.
Comfort
Shorter tubing option. A shorter 5-inch tubing option for comfort on body.
Meter supplies carried and requires visible blood.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Automatically adjusts dosing. Sensor integration allows the pump to automatically adjust insulin doses. More customizable dosing than pens or syringes. Manual bolus button is available for quick dosing without a phone.
Limited features. No info on blood sugar trends.
Easy to Use
Easy Dosing. Full control from a smartphone, with the option to manually bolus if needed.
Large display. Device typically has large display numbers for easier readouts, and it's very simple to operate.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Frequent fingersticks are unavoidable.
Privacy
Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Ability to bolus on a compatible smartphone. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or attached to local area with an armband or adhesive sleeve to be discreet when needed. Dexcom's built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.
No attached device for blood glucose monitoring.