State of Diabetes Toolkit

The economic burden of diagnosed diabetes is vast, with a total estimated annual cost in the U.S. reaching $412.9 billion. For employers, this translates to rising health care expenses and lost productivity.

Offering access to diabetes prevention and management programs as covered health benefits can reduce absenteeism, increase employee retention, and ultimately enhance organizational performance.

Investing in diabetes prevention and management offers significant cost-saving opportunities for employers. Given that employees with diabetes incur health care costs that are 2.6 times higher than those without, these programs can reduce overall expenses. A study funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health revealed an average cost saving of $129 per participant after three years. Given that diabetes can cost approximately $13,700 annually per person, with about $7,900 attributable directly to the disease, the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) offers a significant opportunity to reduce these costs. In addition, Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) services help reduce overall costs by lowering hospital admissions and readmissions and improving health outcomes. By implementing both DSMES and the National DPP, employers can effectively manage health care expenditures while fostering a healthier, more productive workforce.

The ADA provides guidance, tools, and resources to support employers in their efforts to tackle diabetes and prediabetes in the workplace. Through the State of Diabetes toolkit, employers can access educational materials, information on DSMES services and the National DPP, and partnerships to implement these initiatives. Employers are encouraged to explore these resources to foster a healthier workforce and improve employee engagement.