Free diabetes prevention program available again this fall

The Group Lifestyle Balance program, a diabetes prevention program created by the University of Pittsburgh and offered through the Comprehensive Medication Management benefit, is back for another session this fall.

All full- and part-time regular University employees with UPMC Health Plan coverage who has been told by a doctor they have pre-diabetes or is concerned about it can participate in the program, as well as those who may have gained weight or struggled to find a healthy lifestyle during the pandemic.

The Group Lifestyle Balance program aims to help individuals lose weight, become more physically active and reduce stress. All classes will be delivered remotely.

As part of this program, participants will receive:

  • A complimentary Fitbit smart scale

  • Other health and fitness-related items depending on the number of sessions attended

  • Yearlong guidance from a pharmacist trained in lifestyle coaching

  • Support from other program participants

  • Skills to better manage your health

There is no cost to take part in the program, which is valued at approximately $750.

If you are interested in participating or learning more, email Natalie Capozzolo, pharmacist, at mymeds@pitt.edu no later than Aug. 31.

Those interested will be invited to participate in information sessions in August through the beginning of September. The program begins in September 2021.

The Comprehensive Medication Management benefit is provided by the Office of Human Resources Benefits Department. The benefit provides a no-cost opportunity for full- and part-time regular University faculty and staff with UPMC Health Plan coverage to meet with a pharmacist to answer medication-related questions and develop an action plan to help take better control of one’s health. The benefit also provides pre-travel health consultations and smoking cessation guidance and resources in addition to diabetes prevention services.