Background: Remote delivery of health care services through telehealth technology holds promise for expanding access to and engaging individuals in underserved communities. Systematic Screening and Assessment and Evaluability Assessment methods were used to identify and evaluate promising CDC-recognized National Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Change and Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) programs utilizing telehealth technology.

Objective: To describe how 8 Lifestyle Change and DSMES programs utilize telehealth technologies effectively to expand access to services in underserved communities.

Methods: Eight effective programs were selected to participate in an in-depth study. Information was gathered to understand activities, adaptations, and implementation challenges through in-depth interviews with stakeholders and on-site observation.

Results: In all program sites, telehealth technology seamlessly integrated into existing program models to increase patient engagement and experience. Programs offered various tailored products based on the curriculums to reinforce prevention and self-management education. Automation of several program processes reduced burden on health coaches and diabetes educators, and improved data quality and analysis capabilities. Bi-directional communication between providers and programs was key to gaining provider buy-in and increasing referrals. Understanding activities being implemented by effective programs is crucial for expanding use of telehealth technologies.

Conclusion: This project provides valuable practice-based evidence for planning and implementing diabetes prevention and management interventions.

Disclosure

Y. Mensa-Wilmot: None. T. Bonner: None. M.M. Ayala-Perales: None. A. Mensa-Kwao: None. S. Bowen: None. M. Greenberg: None. N. Dawkins-Lyn: None. G.E. Rutledge: None.

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