Tuesday, July 17, 2018

Digital Prevention Program for Preventing Type 2 Diabetes Offers More Flexible Participation

In choosing a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) individuals can select one of four delivery methods based on personal preference, and availability. Recognized DPP organizations may offer the program through any or all of the following delivery methods. While there is flexibility in the method of delivery, all programs, regardless of method, must still meet recognition standards, and are required to submit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) a single application for each delivery method being used.


·       In-person. Yearlong lifestyle change program delivered 100% in-person for all participants by trained Lifestyle Coaches. Participants are physically present in a classroom or classroom-like setting. Lifestyle Coaches may supplement in-person sessions with handouts, emails, or reminder texts; although none of these may be the sole method of participant communication.

·       Online. Yearlong lifestyle change program delivered 100% online for all participants. Participants log into course sessions via a computer, laptop, tablet, or smart phone and may participate in the program in either a group or one-on-one format. Online programs still require interaction with a Lifestyle Coach, similar to the in-person DPP model. Communication with the coach takes place at various times and through various communication methods (e.g., text, email, instant message, etc.).  

·       Distance Learning. Yearlong lifestyle change program delivered 100% by trained Lifestyle Coaches via remote classroom or telehealth where the Lifestyle Coach is present in one location and participants are calling in or video-conferencing.

·       Combination. Yearlong lifestyle change program delivered as a combination of any of the previously defined delivery modes for all participants by trained Lifestyle Coaches.

Enrolling and retaining participants in the traditional in-person DPP can be challenging due to barriers such as time commitment, transportation, and child care. However, offering the DPP digitally, either online or distance learning, can still provide group connections and interactions, but eliminate some of the aforementioned barriers. Providing the program digitally and allowing patients to connect remotely is another way for patients to benefit from the DPP, and achieve lifestyle modification and weight loss. Digital versions of the DPP are excellent options for those who live far away from DPP locations or who prefer the anonymity and convenience of doing the program online.
Some online DPPs utilize digital technology that can be embedded into a patient’s online profile which they use to interact with their Lifestyle Coach. For example, patients participating in Omada’s online program receive a welcome packet with a wireless scale that will transmit participant weight data and graph it for the program duration. The site also features “healthy competition” to help motivate patients and make them feel accountable to the group they are participating with online. Participants also receive additional tools to track their progress, such as a digital pedometer, to help keep them motivated to reach their goals.
It is important that patients have a choice to participate in the type of DPP that best suits their needs if options are available to them. There are many national providers of the DPP online program which can be found on the CDC website. Some providers listed are recognized by the CDC but only available to select participants, such as employers.


  • You can review all of the National Providers here

  • You can read more about the CDC DPP recognition standards and operating procedures here


No comments:

Post a Comment