Adapting the National Diabetes Prevention Program: Learning from Lifestyle Coach strategies and adjustments during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States

Background: The National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) is an evidence-based lifestyle intervention successfully disseminated across the United States. Some adaptations have been made to address real-world needs, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to qualitatively describe adaptations Lifestyle Coaches made in response to the pandemic.

Methods: Between May and June 2021, Lifestyle Coaches (n = 300) from organizations across the United States answered open-ended survey questions about adjustments implemented during the pandemic. Survey responses were descriptively coded and codes were grouped into categories.

Results: Nearly all coaches transitioned the format of their class from in-person to remote delivery (93.0 %; n = 279). Other commonly-reported strategies included adjusting contact with participants (48.0 %; n = 144), increasing support for participants (36.7 %; n = 110), and tailoring materials (28.3 %; n = 85).

Conclusions: Maintaining these adaptations may address barriers to engagement in the National DPP and improve access to the program. Increased support for emotional symptoms and ensuring a patient-centered approach to care are particularly promising strategies.