Refer your patients to the evidence-based Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle change program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Participants will learn skills to problem solve, reduce stress, manage weight, and increase exercise. Participation in this program also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and its complications.
Before referring a patient to a DPP lifestyle change program, screen and test them for eligibility. Be prepared with patient support resources. Then, refer eligible patients to an online or in-person DPP lifestyle change program.
Learn more about coverage requirements and coverage-related resources.
People with prediabetes—or at risk of diabetes—may prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by participating in a DPP lifestyle change program. The DPP lifestyle change program is a year-long, evidence-based, and cost-effective program developed specifically for people with prediabetes in order to prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes. Research shows that lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 58% in people with prediabetes.
The DPP lifestyle change program is a great way to empower people to take charge of their health and well-being. Participants learn how to eat healthier and integrate physical activity into their daily lives. The DPP lifestyle change program provides peer support and coaching, and helps participants develop the necessary problem-solving, stress-reduction, and coping skills to ensure long-lasting lifestyle changes.
To be eligible for referral to a CDC-recognized DPP lifestyle change program, patients must meet the following requirements:
Patients can find a DPP lifestyle change program that works best for them. Click here for more information.
Sample Referral Form
The sample referral form from the Prevent Diabetes STAT Toolkit is a helpful tool that makes the referral process easier for practices, helps engage the patient, and prepares DPP lifestyle change program providers to engage with the patient as well.
M.A.P. (Measure, Act, Partner) Guide
Use the M.A.P. (Meaure, Act, Partner) guide from the Prevent Diabetes STAT Toolkit to guide the screening and referral process. The M.A.P. guide outlines the steps for both the "Point-of-Care" and "Retrospective" methods and includes helpful diagrams.
Information and materials in the "Healthcare Professionals" section of this website may be adapted and/or sourced from the Prevent Diabetes STAT Toolkit, a guide developed by the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Prevent Diabetes STAT Toolkit helps healthcare teams "screen, test, and act today" by referring patients to a Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle change program.