Diabetes prevention program at Tidelands Health earns highest recognition from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
September 23, 2026
Tidelands Health has once again been recognized for its work in diabetes prevention, earning the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Full Plus Recognition, the highest level of recognition awarded through the National Diabetes Prevention Program.
This marks the second consecutive year Tidelands Health has received the designation, which is reserved for organizations that successfully deliver a high-quality, evidence-based diabetes prevention program while meeting all CDC recognition standards and additional participant retention thresholds.
Since launching in 2017, the Tidelands Health Diabetes Prevention Program has helped improve community health outcomes, achieving a 73% participant success rate and helping 61% of participants lose more than 5% of their body weight, both exceeding national averages. 
“Our Diabetes Prevention Program continues to help participants make sustainable lifestyle changes through education, tools, and support that help reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes,” said Wendy Walsh, community health resources manager. “Achieving and maintaining CDC Full Plus Recognition reflects the dedication of our participants, lifestyle coaches, and care teams.”
The need for these services remains significant. According to the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 33,000 adults in South Carolina are diagnosed with diabetes each year, and diabetes accounts for approximately $8.2 billion in annual medical costs and lost productivity across the state.
Individuals at risk for type 2 diabetes can learn more about the Tidelands Health Diabetes Prevention Program at https://www.tidelandshealth.org/community-wellness/diabetes-prevention-program/.
About Tidelands Health
Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.
