Ongoing programs

Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)

A year-long, CDC-approved program to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes

Prediabetes is common, and it often has no symptoms. The good news is that modest, lasting changes can lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Our CDC-approved Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) gives you a coach, a supportive group, and a practical plan for a full year.

Become a Patient(212) 888-2222
Who
Adults with prediabetes
Length
About 12 months
Format
Group coaching sessions
Adults take a relaxed group walk through a neighborhood park.

DPP

Small, lasting changes — with a coach and a group behind you.

Medically reviewed byDr. Papanna Ravichandra, MD · Internal Medicine

Updated

At a glance

What to know before you start.

  • 01

    Who it's for

    Adults at high risk for type 2 diabetes — usually those with prediabetes on a blood test — who do not already have diabetes.

  • 02

    Where care happens

    In group sessions led by a trained lifestyle coach, with your Dr.NYC physician following your progress.

  • 03

    Coverage

    Coverage differs by plan. We check your benefits and tell you about any cost before you enroll.

  • 04

    How to start

    Ask your physician for a screening, or call us. A simple blood test can show whether you have prediabetes.

Who qualifies

Is this right for you?

You may be eligible for the Diabetes Prevention Program if you are at least 18 years old, do not have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and:

Whether a service is right for you is a clinical decision you make together with your physician.

  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher — or 23 or higher if you are Asian American
  • Have had a blood test in the prediabetes range: A1C of 5.7–6.4%, fasting glucose of 100–125 mg/dL, or a 2-hour glucose of 140–199 mg/dL
  • Or have previously been diagnosed with gestational diabetes
  • Or score as high risk on the CDC prediabetes risk test
A lifestyle coach discusses everyday food choices with program participants.

What's included

What the program includes

The program focuses on realistic changes you can keep — not a diet.

  • A trained lifestyle coach

    Your coach leads each session and helps you set goals that fit your life.

  • Group support

    Meet with others working toward the same goals, and share what works.

  • Healthy eating

    Practical guidance on everyday food choices, portions, and meals you already enjoy.

  • Everyday activity

    Build up to about 150 minutes of moderate activity, like brisk walking, each week.

  • Tracking progress

    Simple tools to track food, activity, and weight so you can see your progress.

  • Staying on track

    Monthly sessions in the second half of the year to help changes last.

Getting started

What happens at your first visit.

  1. 1

    Screening

    Your physician reviews your risk and orders an A1C or glucose test if needed.

  2. 2

    Enrollment

    We confirm eligibility and coverage, and find a group schedule that works for you.

  3. 3

    Start the program

    Weekly sessions for the first months, then monthly sessions for the rest of the year.

Insurance & coverage

What your plan may cover.

Coverage for diabetes prevention programs differs between Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial plans, and some employers offer it as a benefit. We check your coverage before you enroll and explain any cost.

Blood tests to screen for prediabetes are commonly covered as part of preventive care.

We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and nobody is turned down. Call (212) 888-2222 and we'll check your benefits.

FAQ

Common questions.

Don't see your question? Call (212) 888-2222 — the line is answered 24/7.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes means blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. It often has no symptoms, which is why a blood test matters.

What is the goal of the program?

Participants work toward losing 5–7% of their body weight and being active about 150 minutes a week — changes shown to lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

I already have type 2 diabetes. Can I join?

The DPP is for prevention, so it is not designed for people who already have diabetes. Ask about our Chronic Care Management and Remote Patient Monitoring programs instead.

Do I have to follow a strict diet?

No. The program focuses on gradual, practical changes to how you eat and move, built around your own routine and culture.

How long is the program?

About a year: weekly sessions at first, then less frequent sessions to help you maintain your progress.

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Dr.NYC Health + Systems®

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Most plans accepted. Nobody is turned down. Everybody is seen.

Become a Patient(212) 888-2222

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