Massachusetts Diabetes Prevention resources: www.mass.gov/dph/preventdiabetes
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has kicked off a statewide Diabetes Prevention campaign. This is being spearheaded by the Diabetes Prevention and Control program. A media campaign will focus on placing ads in newspapers, transit stations and billboards across MA. It will direct consumers to the state website where they can take the risk test for Prediabetes.
In the “For Providers” section, you will also find resources to help you get started, support your current program or refer a patient to a Diabetes Prevention Program in your community. Take a few minutes to review the factsheets and brochures that can be downloaded or ordered.
As part of this campaign, Lifestyle Coach trainings are being offered in various locations across the state. To date 27 people have taken advantage of the two programs offered in March and an additional 16 have preregistered for the May 2-3 program in Canton, MA. The plan will be to host trainings every 4 to 6 months as needed.
With the Secretary Sylvia Burwell’s recent announcement that Medicare coverage will be expanded to the National Diabetes Prevention Program, the time is here to prepare and consider your role as a diabetes educator. Don’t forget that AADE has been advocating and working as a national partner with the Centers for Disease Control since 2012. You can find more information and DPP resources at: https://www.diabeteseducator.org/practice/diabetes-prevention-program