DPP Lifestyle Coach Network Newsletter

August 2023

Newsletter Highlights

Inequities are all around us and are experienced differently by diverse groups of people. Understanding the basis for the inequities is key for organizations and Lifestyle Coaches to implement and deliver the National DPP in such a way that enables all participants to reap the benefits of risk reduction. In this introductory webinar on health equity, Lifestyle Coaches will learn the foundation for inequities that exist in diabetes, what contributes to these inequities, and potential problems that individual participants are facing on their journey toward a healthy lifestyle. Resources for understanding health equity in communities as well as practices for implementing and delivering a National DPP program that is inclusive for all participants will be discussed.

After registering, you have 3 weeks (21 days) to complete this course at your own pace! 

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposes to extend the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) Expanded Model’s Public Health Emergency Flexibilities for four years. Currently, MDPP suppliers are required to resume in-person delivery of the MDPP set of services after December 31, 2023.

In this proposed rule, CMS will allow all MDPP suppliers to continue to use specific MDPP COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) flexibilities, through December 31, 2027. The proposed flexibilities include the virtual delivery of the set of MDPP services through distance learning. CMS also proposes to simplify MDPP’s current performance-based payment structure by allowing fee-for-service payments for beneficiary attendance.

What does this mean?

If finalized, this proposed rule would allow all MDPP suppliers to continue to offer the set of MDPP services virtually using distance learning delivery through December 31, 2027, if they maintain an in-person CDC organization code. This would include the ability to:

• Collect weight measurements for MDPP beneficiaries via virtual technology and/or self-reported weight measurements.
• Provide all MDPP services virtually, with no maximum of virtual sessions provided.
• Use a new distance learning G-code for MDPP services delivered virtually via distance learning.
• Bill for each session attended (up to 22 sessions over the 12-month MDPP services period).



Questions may be submitted through the MDPP Supplier Support Portal.

Additional information regarding this proposed ruling may be found in the Federal Register. 

Have you ever thought of using incentives in your program delivery? The CSC now has an easy-to-digest resource and infographic – Using Incentives in the National DPP Lifestyle Change Program (LCP) – that displays high-level findings about the effectiveness of incentives for participants in lifestyle modification programs.

This resource includes information on incentive types and how organizations can best design program incentives for improved health results. The resource also links to an emerging practices guide for additional details about factors to consider when deciding whether to use incentives and how they can improve program adherence within the DPP LCP.

Want to receive referrals from the DPP Navigator?

Let us know when your next DPP cohort will begin by filling out this form.

Email the DPP Navigator at dppreferral@dhhs.nc.gov

Let us know how we can assist your site or introduce you to training opportunities.