PHOENIX — Albertsons Cos. has joined the Solera Health network of National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) providers, offering the program in conveniently located in neighborhood grocery stores operating under 20 well known banners – including Albertsons, Safeway and Vons.

The Albertsons Companies’ NDPP, led by local dieticians and supported by the stores’ known and trusted pharmacists, uses the aisles of the supermarket to enrich the program material and experience. During the program, participants actively sample and discover new foods throughout the store while learning about healthier meal and snack options to complement their health and wellness goals.  Participants expand their understanding by tasting, touching, and seeing new and healthier foods. The pharmacy team continues service by being available every day to help participants better manage health conditions and medications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently estimates that over 30 million people (9.4% of the U.S. population) have diabetes and another 84 million (33.9% of the adult U.S. population) live as prediabetics.  As a result, a growing number of health plans and employer groups direct covered members and employees to www.Solera4Me.com. Solera conducts a quick eligibility screening then matches people at risk for Type 2 diabetes to the program that best fits their needs and preferences.

“The Albertson’s DPP is a great fit for people who prefer the convenience of attending classes in their neighborhood supermarket and who can benefit from the added support of a pharmacist,” said Brenda Schmidt, chief executive officer, Solera Health. “We’re thrilled to have this community organization join our national network of NDPP providers.”

“Offering this DPP program through the setting of a grocery store and pharmacy is exciting,” said Donna Dolan, Wellness Services Manager, Albertsons Cos. Pharmacies. “It just makes sense to teach patients about healthy eating and medication management for pre-diabetes in the same place they buy their groceries and pick up prescriptions each week. During the classes, they can ask questions and learn how to personalize their health and weight loss plan in a way that works with their unique lifestyle. It’s truly customized for each person to successfully, and sustainably, reach their health and wellness goals.”