By: Sylvia Trujillo, Executive Director, California Telehealth Resource Center (CalTRC) – 4.22.25 

Across the country—and acutely here in California—chronic diseases are driving an unsustainable burden on our health systems, our economy, and our communities. Over 60% of U.S. adults live with at least one chronic disease, and nearly half of all Americans have hypertension, obesity, or diabetes. These rates have been climbing steadily for decades, with disproportionate impact on rural and low-resourced communities. 

 It’s time to change the narrative. We must not only treat chronic conditions but prevent them using the powerful tools now at our fingertips. 

 At the California Telehealth Resource Center, we are laser-focused on equipping providers and healthcare leaders with innovative, scalable digital health solutions that meet people where they are—before the emergency room visit, before the complications, before the crisis. 

Trends and Digital Tools in the Fight Against Chronic Disease 

Here are three essential digital tools that can help California lead the nation in chronic disease prevention and care transformation: 

1. Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) – Medicare and Medi-Cal Coverage 

The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) is a structured, evidence-based lifestyle change program focused on preventing type 2 diabetes. Medicare covers MDPP virtually through 2027 via live, interactive video or phone-based sessions.  Learn more on the virtual Medicare DPP

In California, Medi-Cal also covers DPP, including virtual delivery, when provided by a recognized DPP supplier. This offers a critical opportunity to scale prevention efforts for Medi-Cal enrollees—especially in rural and high-risk populations. However, it is important to note that coverage varies among Medi-Cal managed care plans.  Learn more on the virtual Medi-Cal DPP  

 2. Telenutrition: Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs) and Medical Nutrition Therapy   

 California is leading the way in recognizing food as medicine, thanks in part to the work of the  California Food is Medicine Coalition (CalFIMC). This coalition advances medically tailored meals and nutrition support for patients with chronic illness, many of whom lack access to healthy food options. 

 In additional medical nutrition therapy involves providing individualized nutrition counseling that supports weight management, glycemic control, and lifestyle changes.  

 Telenutrition in support of Medically Tailored Meals as well as for medical nutrition therapy services are covered by Medicare for certain chronic conditions and reimbursed by Medi-Cal in California when medically necessary and appropriately documented. Explore our Telenutrition Toolkit 

 Join us May 22, 2025, for a special Telenutrition Session at the California Telehealth Resource Center Summit: Where the Technology Supercycle Meets Healthcare. This session will showcase how telenutrition, combined with other digital health modalities to address behavior change strategies, which can reshape chronic disease care. 

 3. Remote Physiological Monitoring (RPM) 

RPM enables the secure transmission of real-time health data—such as blood pressure, glucose, and weight—from patients’ homes to their care teams. This approach supports early intervention, improves adherence, and reduces hospitalizations. Explore CalTRC’s RPM Resources 

Looking Ahead 

The growing threat of chronic disease is not inevitable—it’s a call to action. By leveraging innovative technologies, aligning payment models, and supporting community-based strategies like food is medicine, we can shift from reactive to proactive care. 

At CalTRC, we’re committed to supporting this shift with tools, education, and expert technical assistance. Let’s work together to move upstream, engage patients earlier, and deliver care that is more connected, compassionate, and effective.