Scaling Up Diabetes Prevention Programs in North Carolina: Perceptions of Demand From Potential Program Recipients and Providers

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess factors that influence demand for the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) from the perspectives of potential program participants and providers. Methods A qualitative study guided by a conceptual framework was conducted with potential DPP participants and potential DPP providers. Five focus groups with potential participants (n = 37) and key informant interviews with potential providers (n = 14) were conducted in community settings across North Carolina. Results Although providers considered prediabetes to be an important health problem, potential DPP participants expressed less urgency related to a diagnosis of prediabetes. Potential participants felt that they were more likely to adopt diabetes prevention programs if affordable and convenient. For potential program providers, funding, collaboration, and staff support were key considerations for DPP adoption. Providers were supportive of DPP features; however, there was concern from both stakeholders on retention in a 16-week program. Both groups cited transportation, cost, and health insurance reimbursement as existing barriers to the uptake of these programs. Conclusion This qualitative study highlights important considerations for scaling up diabetes prevention programs in community settings, including what constraints agencies face in adopting programs, the perceived demand and programmatic needs for these services by customers, and the need for improving patient education on prediabetes. This implementation science study allows us to increase the potential to scale up and sustain diabetes prevention programs that fit available resources and customer needs.