Beneficiary experiences in the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program

Abstract

Background
Type 2 diabetes is a common and costly health challenge among Medicare beneficiaries. In 2018, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services began covering the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP), which is based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-recognized National Diabetes Prevention Program. This study explored beneficiaries’ experiences with the MDPP, including satisfaction with the program and perceived impacts on health behaviors and outcomes.

Methods
We recruited beneficiaries through 9 MDPP suppliers and conducted 10 virtual focus groups with 25 beneficiaries who were currently enrolled in or had recently completed the program as of February 2023. Focus groups were conducted from March to May 2023, audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using rapid qualitative methods to identify common themes.

Results
Beneficiaries most often enrolled in the MDPP to prevent diabetes and lose weight. Overall, participants reported high satisfaction with the program and highlighted the group-based format, supportive lifestyle coaches, and practical curriculum focused on diet and physical activity as major strengths. Beneficiaries also described improvements in diet, physical activity, and self-reported health outcomes, including hemoglobin A1c levels.

Conclusions
This study suggests that beneficiaries who enroll in the MDPP value the program and report meaningful benefits related to lifestyle change and health. These findings support continued efforts to expand access to MDPP and optimize program delivery for older adults.