What steps are needed when switching from a Dexcom (Continuous Glucose Monitoring System) G6 to a G7 while using an Omnipod (Automated Insulin Delivery system) AID?

Switching from Dexcom G6 to G7 with Omnipod AID

When switching from a Dexcom G6 to G7 while using an Omnipod AID system, you simply need to pair the new G7 sensor with your Omnipod 5 controller through the device settings—no other system changes are required since both sensors are FDA-approved integrated CGM (iCGM) devices compatible with the Omnipod 5 AID system. 1

Step-by-Step Transition Process

Pre-Switch Preparation

• Ensure you have G7 supplies ready before discontinuing the G6 to avoid any gaps in CGM data, as continuous CGM use is essential for AID system function 1
• Download any necessary software updates to your Omnipod 5 controller to ensure G7 compatibility 2
• Review your current AID settings (target glucose, insulin-to-carbohydrate ratios, correction factors) as these will remain unchanged during the sensor switch 3

Device Pairing Process

• Remove the G6 transmitter and end the current sensor session in your Omnipod 5 controller
• Navigate to CGM settings on the Omnipod 5 controller and select the option to pair a new sensor 2
• Apply the G7 sensor following manufacturer instructions and complete the pairing process through the controller interface
• Wait for the 30-minute warm-up period before the G7 begins transmitting glucose data to the AID system 4

Key Differences Between G6 and G7

Improved Accuracy Profile

• The G7 demonstrates significantly better accuracy with a mean absolute relative difference of 18% compared to G6's 25%, particularly important for hypoglycemia detection which improves from 42% to 62% 4
• Reduced over-read error means the G7 is less likely to display falsely elevated glucose values, which can improve AID system insulin dosing decisions 4

Practical Considerations

• The G7 has a shorter 30-minute warm-up compared to G6's 2-hour warm-up, reducing the time your AID system operates without CGM data 4
• No calibration required for either system, so your workflow remains unchanged 1
• Both sensors provide data every 5 minutes, maintaining consistent data flow to the AID algorithm 1

Critical Safety Points

Manual Mode Awareness

• During the G7 warm-up period, your Omnipod 5 will automatically revert to manual mode using your preprogrammed basal rates 1
• Verify your manual mode settings are current before switching sensors, as these may not reflect your actual insulin needs if they haven't been updated while using AID 1
• Check if predictive low glucose suspend features remain active in manual mode during the sensor transition 1

Backup Planning

• Maintain backup supplies including fingerstick glucose meters, test strips, and insulin pens in case of sensor failure, which some users report occurs more frequently with G7 4
• Keep extra G7 sensors available to avoid gaps in CGM coverage that would force extended manual mode operation 1

Post-Switch Monitoring

Initial 24-48 Hours

• Monitor AID system performance closely after switching to ensure the G7 is communicating properly with the Omnipod 5 3
• Verify alert settings transferred correctly for hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and rapid glucose change notifications 5
• Confirm remote monitoring features (Share/Follow) are functioning if you use these for caregiver oversight 5, 6

Data Continuity

• Upload data from both G6 and G7 periods to your diabetes management platform (Clarity, Glooko, etc.) to maintain continuous glucose trend analysis 5
• Document the sensor switch date in your records to help interpret any glycemic pattern changes 5

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't assume all settings automatically transfer—verify alert thresholds, target ranges, and notification preferences after pairing the G7 6
• Don't switch sensors during high-risk periods such as overnight or before extended activities where manual diabetes management would be challenging 1
• Don't ignore increased sensor failure warnings reported by some G7 users; have backup sensors readily available 4
• Don't forget to update your diabetes care team about the sensor switch, as they may need to adjust how they review your CGM data 5

The transition between these two iCGM devices is designed to be seamless since both are FDA-approved for integration with AID systems like the Omnipod 5 1. The improved accuracy of the G7, particularly for hypoglycemia detection, should enhance your AID system's ability to maintain optimal glucose control 4.