LAKELAND – Multiple health organizations in Alberta are collaborating on a one-year pilot project focusing on a digital diabetes prevention program, connecting health coaches and users via a smartphone app.
On an Aug. 29 news release, Alberta Health Services (AHS) announced the Virtual Diabetes Prevention Program (vDPP) Pilot in partnership between the U.S.-based Yes Health, AHS, and Alberta Blue Cross. The vDPP targets Albertans living with pre-diabetes at risk of developing the chronic disease.
Yes Health is a digital health provider focused on weight loss, diabetes prevention, and concierge health coaching was launched in 2014, according to the Yes Health website.
The AHS release stated that Yes Health’s platform aims to connect users with health coaches at any time for one-on-one support, allowing users on-demand access to resources on nutrition and exercise. The pilot’s goal is to ensure continuity of care for patients, by trying to determine how to incorporate online and digital health platforms like Yes Health with primary care.
As part of the launch, 500 Albertans with pre-diabetes will be chosen to receive one-year free access to the app.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone for our organization in the fight against type 2 diabetes. It comes at an important time, as people living with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes often have higher risk of serious COVID-19 complications, as well as other long-term health complications,” stated Mark Komlenic, President and CEO of Alberta Blue Cross in the Aug. 29 news release. “As an organization dedicated to promoting health and wellness, we’re excited to be part of this program and look forward to the outcomes.”
Healthcare consumers expect access to digital health solutions alongside regular in-person care, stated Alexander Petrov in the news release, founder and CEO of Yes Health. He said it’s vital for all stakeholders to deliver these solutions by combining cutting-edge technology with human support.
“That’s why we’re excited about this landmark pilot partnership. It’s a great example of what can happen when the digital health sector works hand-in-glove with the payer, provider and public health communities to address and prevent one of the most debilitating and costliest chronic conditions,” stated Petrov.
AHS told Lakeland This Week via email, that the total budget for vDPP is $750,000, with $500,000 coming from AHS and $250,000 from Alberta Blue Cross. In-kind support from Alberta Blue Cross and AHS's Strategic Clinical Networks will also help support participating Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and participants.
