You want your patients to lead a healthy lifestyle, especially when they are at higher risk for chronic diseases. You can help them interpret their test results and make decisions about next steps, but where can they get the information, resources, and support they need to make healthy choices? At Local Health Departments (LHDs)!
Local Health Departments are often the hub for primary prevention programs for chronic disease and wellness. Trained lifestyle coaches offer evidence-based programs that support community residents and give them the tools they need to reduce their risk of serious illness or complications from chronic health conditions. Many programs are free or low-cost and open to all who qualify.
The National Diabetes Prevention Program - The National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is a year-long program that typically meets 2-3 times a month for six months and then once a month for six months. Trained lifestyle coaches lead classes, and the participants support each other. The year-long commitment helps make sure that healthy changes become habits.
Participants must be 18 years or older, have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher (23 or higher if Asian American), not previously diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and not be pregnant.
Participants must also have a blood test result in the prediabetes range within the past year (includes any of these test and results): Hemoglobin A1C of 5.7%–6.4%, fasting plasma glucose of 100–125 mg/dL, or a two-hour plasma glucose (after a 75 g glucose load) of 140–199 mg/dL; be previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes, or receive a high-risk result (5 or higher) on the the Prediabetes Risk Test.
In Carroll County, our most recent DPP cohort of eight participants lost a total of 21 pounds and their average HbA1c went from 6.9 to 5.5!
Healthy Heart Ambassadors - Healthy Heart Ambassadors (HHA) is a 4-month program to encourage people to self-monitor and record their blood pressure, then share their blood pressure log with their providers. Sessions also include tips for a heart-healthy diet. Program participants work on managing and reducing their blood pressure, increasing awareness of triggers that elevate their blood pressure, and maintaining healthier eating habits. Participants may receive a free blood pressure cuff.
Anyone over the age of 18 with high blood pressure readings in a provider’s office, pharmacy or with a home blood pressure cuff is eligible to participate in HHA, unless they have serious health issues such as lymphedema, a recent cardiac event or history of atrial fibrillation; these individuals may be able to attend some information sessions.
In Carroll County, a health educator has been offering these classes at senior housing complexes, making it easy for residents to participate. One recent participant said “This class has helped me to see how much sodium I was eating and some tips for reducing it--and my blood pressure has been going down."
Diabetes Self-Management Program - The Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP) is an interactive, community-based workshop. It includes six weekly, 2 ½ hour sessions to help each participant manage both the physical and emotional aspects of their diabetes. DSMP is recommended for adults who have Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes, and family members or other people who support the person are welcome to attend.
Topics include monitoring your blood sugar, balancing carbohydrates, proteins and fats, menu planning, dealing with stress or depression, exercise, relaxation, action planning and problem solving, and more. The program is based on focus groups with diabetes educators and people with diabetes and meets the content standards of both the American Diabetes Association and the American Association of Diabetes Educators.
The program does not replace any existing programs or treatment. For medical questions, participants are referred to their physicians. Research showed that taking the DSMP improved healthy behaviors and health status, and self-efficacy, improved communication with healthcare providers, and reduced emergency room visits.
In Carroll County, DSMP is often offered virtually, with an option to check out an electronic device to use for the class. A recent participant said “This class really put my mind at ease and gave me some very helpful information."
Tobacco Cessation - Many LHDs offer tobacco, vaping, and nicotine cessation programs and resources for individuals and groups, virtually and in-person. They can help people make a quit plan and connect with state programs. Some individuals may qualify for vouchers to cover the cost of nicotine replacement patches, gum or lozenges.
LHDs may offer other programs as well, such as general healthy lifestyle classes, weight loss classes, and healthy eating classes. LHDs work with a wide variety of community partners to connect people with other classes, events, support groups, and other resources to support healthy living. And programs are often added or refreshed, so check back often!
How can you refer your patients to these programs? Connect with your local health department(s) to find out what they offer and how you can get your patients signed up. They may have a formal referral process in place, or may have materials they can provide for you to give your patients. Share your ideas and needs and help us strengthen the connection between providers, patients, and public health.
Visit the MDAFP Local Health Department page for website links, highlighted programs, and contact information.
Read more News from MDAFP
