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:
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