Medicare Expands Diabetes Prevention Program to Reach More Patients
Medicare has implemented significant changes to its Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP), expanding access for more Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. These changes, following advocacy from organizations like the AMA, aim to improve early identification and management of prediabetes to prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes. The MDPP offers 16 weekly sessions over six months, followed by six monthly follow-up sessions, providing training in diet, exercise, weight control strategies, and support from a specially trained coach. A key 2024 change covers nonfasting A1c tests for diabetes and prediabetes screening, making qualification easier. Additionally, there is no longer a limit on how many times a beneficiary can qualify, and the number of virtual MDPP providers has expanded, offering more flexible participation options.