Diabetes Tech Integration Live in Australia: What You Need to Know

This marks an exciting milestone for the type 1 diabetes community, bringing a more seamless experience for users. It combines real-time glucose monitoring with AIDs to help with complex diabetes management.

Diabetes Victoria continues to advocate for subsidised access to CGM for people living with all types of diabetes who require regular insulin.

For many living with type 1 diabetes, the integration has been a priority.

“Having a pump and a CGM Is great but there is a lot more of a mental load and admin to feed one into the other. That is often why a lot of people living with T1D fall into tech burnout. This will take away that extra couple of decisions a day that we have to make. It’s a gamechanger! I can’t wait to get my hands on it and trial it!” Tegan, T1D 24 years.

The connection of these two technologies means users only face a single app setup, allowing the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor to connect with the Omnipod 5 System.

This enables automated insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings. This helps users to monitor and maintain their glucose levels throughout the day.

What’s new with FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus?

The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor is Australia’s first 15-day continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor.

It offers improved accuracy, extended wear time, and real-time data sent to your smartphone every minute. These improvements make it ideal for connecting to the Omnipod 5 System, designed for individuals aged 2 and older with type 1 diabetes.

Getting started

If you're currently using the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor and would like to upgrade to the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus, you should know that the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) does not automatically switch users to the new sensor.

To access the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus under the NDSS subsidy, your healthcare professional must submit a ‘switch’ form on your behalf.

Makinge sure your healthcare provider is aware of your interest to switch will to help you to avoid delays. You will then be able to take full advantage of this new, exciting integration.

Optimising connectivity between devices

While the integration is designed to be smooth, optimal connectivity between the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor and the Omnipod 5 Pod depends on how the devices are worn. To maintain a strong connection, it the devices should stay within ‘line of sight’. This means the two devices should be worn on the same side of the body and positioned so they can communicate.

This placement means if you are wearing the sensor on the back of the upper arm, the Pod should be on the same arm (at least 2.5 cm apart). Your health care professional will be able to assist with other recommended placements.

The placement can improve performance and reduce the possibility of connectivity issues.

Troubleshooting tips

If you experience any connectivity concerns, manufacturer advice states:

• Check device placement. Ensure both the sensor and Pod are positioned according to recommended guidelines.
• Restart the app. Restarting the Omnipod 5 app can help to re-establish connection.
• Update your software. Make sure your device and the app are up to date.
• Contact support. Abbott and Omnipod offer support services to troubleshoot any ongoing issues.

This integration represents an exciting leap forward in diabetes care and management. It offers users freedom, flexibility, and confidence to manage their diabetes, their way.

There have been past concerns around compatibility. The current rollout addresses these issues with clear guidance and improved technology.

For more information on how to get started, visit the FreeStyle Libre Omnipod Partnership page, or speak with your healthcare professional.

Not sure who to speak to? You can get in touch with the Diabetes Victoria health care professionals. Reach out to our clinical team here.

Consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your diabetes management. Unless expressly stated otherwise, Diabetes Victoria does not endorse third-party products, services, offers, or any other information provided by third parties. You must undertake your own inquiries to determine the accuracy and relevance of any products, services, offers, or other information provided by third parties. Diabetes Victoria is not liable for any representations made by such third parties in relation to their programs, services, member benefits and offers, or their provision of such items.