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Millions of Americans aged 65 and over are living with diabetes, a chronic condition that significantly impacts their health and well-being. But what if there was a way to prevent or delay the onset of this disease? The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) offers a beacon of hope, empowering individuals with prediabetes to take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

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What is the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program?

The MDPP is a structured lifestyle change program designed to help individuals with prediabetes adopt healthy habits that can significantly reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This evidence-based program focuses on promoting healthy eating, increasing physical activity, and achieving weight loss.

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What coverage does Medicare provide for these services?

The good news is that the MDPP is covered by Medicare Part B, making it free for eligible beneficiaries. This means you won't have to pay any copays or deductibles for participating in the program.

What services are provided through this program?

The MDPP typically involves:

• 16-week core curriculum: This initial phase consists of weekly group sessions led by a trained lifestyle coach. These sessions cover topics like healthy eating, physical activity, behavior change strategies, and emotional well-being.


• Monthly follow-up sessions: After completing the core curriculum, participants receive monthly follow-up sessions for up to one year to help them maintain their progress and stay motivated.
• Individualized support: The program provides personalized guidance and support from a lifestyle coach who helps participants set realistic goals, overcome challenges, and celebrate their successes.

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Who's eligible for this program?

To be eligible for the MDPP, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in Medicare Part B.
• Have been diagnosed with prediabetes by your doctor.
• Be able to attend weekly group sessions and participate actively in the program.

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How do I enroll in the program?

Talk to your doctor about your eligibility for the MDPP. They can help you find a program offered by a qualified healthcare provider in your area and guide you through the enrollment process. You can also search for MDPP providers online using the Medicare Provider Finder tool.

What else is covered for diabetes care under Medicare?

While the MDPP focuses on preventing diabetes, Medicare also covers various services for individuals already diagnosed with the condition. These include:

• Blood sugar monitoring supplies: Medicare helps cover the cost of blood glucose meters, test strips, and lancets for monitoring blood sugar levels.
• Insulin and other medications: Medicare covers various medications used to manage diabetes, including insulin, oral medications, and injectable medications.
• Diabetic shoes and inserts: Medicare may cover specialized shoes and inserts designed to prevent foot complications in individuals with diabetes.
• Diabetes education: Medicare covers diabetes self-management training programs to help individuals learn how to manage their condition effectively.

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The takeaway

The MDPP is a valuable resource for individuals with prediabetes seeking to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. By participating in this program and adopting healthy lifestyle changes, you can take control of your health, reduce your risk of future complications, and improve your overall well-being. Remember, early intervention is key, so talk to your doctor today to see if the MDPP is right for you.