A Return-on-Investment Analysis of a Community-Based Diabetes Self-Management Program In New York City

Authors: Jason Goldwater, Yael Harris, Sonali K. Das, Maria A. Fernandez Galvis, Duncan Maru, William B. Jordan, Crystal Sacaridiz, Chris Norwood, Sara Soonsik Kim, Kyle W. Neustrom

This study in New York City looked at a community program for people with type 2 diabetes that was led by community health workers and included education plus support for social needs like housing and access to care. It involved 171 adults and ran for six weeks. After the program, fewer people went to emergency rooms or were admitted to hospital, and participants managed their condition better. The benefits of the program were much greater than its cost, showing it saved money overall while improving health. The findings suggest that combining diabetes education with support for everyday life challenges can be both effective and cost-saving.