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DPP Lifestyle Coach Network Newsletter


January 2026

Newsletter Highlights

January Collaboratives

NC Diabetes Prevention and Management Pharmacy Collaborative: January 7 at 10:00 AM

NC DPP Networking Call: Sustainability and Medicare DPP: January 28 at 11:00 AM

DTTAC Advanced Lifestyle Coach Training

Ongoing webinar and podcast opportunities

DPP Lifestyle Coach Spotlight

Samantha Combs, Martin-Tyrell-Washington District Health

Host a Free Community Training on Immunizations and Diabetes

January Collaboratives

NC Diabetes Prevention and Management Pharmacy Collaborative

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

at 10:00 AM

Join us for a focused discussion with Charlotte Nazar, PharmD (American Pharmacists Association) and Laura Rhodes, PharmD (NC CPESN) on staffing strategies to support diabetes prevention and management programs, with a particular focus on Community Health Workers (CHWs).


Participants will learn practical billing and reimbursement approaches and hear about current efforts in North Carolina to support pharmacies in this work.

NC DPP Networking Call

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

at 11:00 AM

Join us to meet with national subject matter expert, Joanna DiBenedetto, MNM to discuss DPP billing, sustainability, umbrella hub arrangements, Medicare DPP and more!.

DTTAC Advanced Lifestyle Coach Training

5 advanced lifestyle coach training on-demand webinars available now!

Use discount code NC26Web at checkout!

Podcast

Use discount code NC26Pod at checkout!

DPP Lifestyle Coach Spotlight

Samantha Combs

Martin Washington Tyrell Health District

Samantha’s approach to DPP is both flexible and compassionate. She regularly teaches classes at times and locations that best meet the needs of her clients, often adjusting her schedule and traveling throughout the area to ensure that every person has access resources. Her willingness to accommodate her community reflects her deep respect for the people she serves.


Samantha works to promote wellness across the region by initiating and participating in numerous health fairs. Her presence at these events helps connect families with critical resources, screenings, and education they might not otherwise receive. Her leadership and outreach have made a measurable difference in the health awareness of the community.


Her service extends even further through volunteerism and civic engagement. Samantha serves on the Tyrrell County Food Pantry Board where she also volunteers regularly. She is an active member of the Tyrrell County Cooperative Extension Advisory Board, where she provides valuable insight into community needs and collaborates with Extension staff to develop programs that create sustainable change. Samantha’s faith community also benefits from her passion for health education. She is an active member of her church and regularly shares helpful, relevant health information with congregants, enhancing the well-being of her church family.


Through the years, Samantha has, and continues to provide consistent and high-quality DPP programs to diverse groups. Her ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds makes her a truly impactful educator and advocate. Her dedication, compassion, and collaborative spirit have touched countless lives. She embodies the heart of community service and the power of making a difference through education, empathy, and action.


You can nominate a DPP lifestyle coach in your organization who is doing great work!

Nominations will be featured in future editions of the DiabetesFreeNC DPP Lifestyle Coach Network Newsletter.

Host a Free Community Training on Immunizations and Diabetes

The Diabetes Program at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has been selected to participate in the national Immunizations and Diabetes Master Trainer Program through the American Diabetes Association® (ADA). This initiative equips health professionals and community partners with the knowledge and tools to better understand the critical role vaccines play in protecting people with diabetes from preventable diseases.

 

Individuals living with diabetes are at increased risk for severe complications from vaccine-preventable illnesses, making it essential to stay up to date on vaccinations as part of diabetes management and overall health.

 

Now through March 1, we are offering FREE community trainings focused on immunizations and diabetes. These sessions will empower participants to make informed health decisions, reduce risks, and strengthen protection against illness. Trainings last no longer than 90 minutes and can be delivered in-person or virtually. Attendees will also have the chance to participate in raffles.

 

If your organization or site is interested in hosting a free training, please contact

Dominique Ashley at dominique.ashley@dhhs.nc.gov to schedule your training.

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