Recruitment and Retention in the National Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Change Program in Two Federally Qualified Health Centers in Rural Hawaiʻi

Prediabetes disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority groups in Hawai'i. The National Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle change program (National DPP LCP) decreases the risk of developing diabetes. However, enrolling and retaining participants is a challenge for program providers. This evaluation aimed to understand factors that influence racial and ethnic minority groups in Hawai'i to enroll in and complete the program. From 2018 through 2023, two federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in rural Hawai'i administered 6 year-long cohorts. Trained lifestyle coaches, who were FQHC staff members, recruited participants and facilitated the evidence-based curriculum. In 2023, the evaluation team conducted semistructured interviews with 14 of the 40 enrolled participants (35%), all of whom were women aged 25 to 74 years. Six participants identified as Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander and 3 as Filipino. Eight participants reported completing the program. We used qualitative methodology to analyze transcripts. We identified themes around motivators, barriers, facilitators, and suggestions for improvement. Recruitment by trusted individuals in their communities motivated participants to enroll. Caregiving and work obligations were attendance barriers for early withdrawers and graduates. Social support from lifestyle coaches and enrolled friends and family were facilitators for program completion. Suggestions included improving class availability and incorporating culturally relevant recipes. Barriers experienced by Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander and Filipino participants were similar to those reported by racial and ethnic groups in other studies. Program providers in rural communities should use trusted individuals as lifestyle coaches and recruit family and friends, regardless of National DPP LCP eligibility, to reduce caregiving barriers and engage critical support systems to facilitate completion.