Are you concerned that you are at risk for diabetes or have you been told by your doctor that you have pre-diabetes? Have you gained weight, been physically inactive, or struggled to find a healthy lifestyle routine?

You’re not alone. One in three US adults has pre-diabetes and the pandemic made it more challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay active.

To help get you back on track, consider participating in Group Lifestyle Balance, a diabetes prevention program created by the University of Pittsburgh and offered through the University’s Comprehensive Medication Management benefit.

The Comprehensive Medication Management benefit is provided by the Office of Human Resources Benefits Department. The benefit provides a no-cost opportunity for full-time 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 your health. The benefit also provides pre-travel health consultations and smoking cessation guidance and resources in addition to diabetes prevention services. 

You may be eligible for this prevention service if you are concerned that you may have pre-diabetes or have been told by your doctor that you have pre-diabetes.

The Group Lifestyle Balance program aims to help individuals lose weight, become more physically active, and reduce stress. All classes will be delivered remotely. Those interested will be invited to participate in information sessions on a rolling basis. The program begins September 18, 2023. Classes will be held once a week for the first twelve weeks of the course. After that, it changes to every other week. At the six-month mark of the program, classes will occur monthly.

As part of this yearlong program, participants will receive:

• A complimentary scale
• Other health and fitness related items depending on number of sessions attended
• Ongoing 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 $800.

If you are interested in participating or learning more, please email Natalie Capozzolo, pharmacist, at mymeds@pitt.edu no later than September 1, 2023.