UCI Heath Family Health Center launches Diabetes Group Medical Visits to empower Latino/a community

Eight-week cohort conducted entirely in Spanish designed to improve diabetes care, support lasting lifestyle changes

Orange, Calif. — The UCI Health Family Health Center, in partnership with the Treatment Working Group of the UC Irvine/Orange County Latino Diabetes Initiative, is proud to announce the successful launch and ongoing impact of their Diabetes Group Medical Visits (GMV) at UCI Health Family Health Center — Anaheim. This initiative addresses the critical challenges faced by the Latino/a community in managing diabetes and provides an innovative, patient-centered approach to care.

The Diabetes GMV program, an interactive eight-week cohort conducted entirely in Spanish, is designed to improve diabetes care and support lasting lifestyle changes. Led by Dr. Nafiseh Khodaparast, a dedicated team of interprofessional healthcare providers, and prehealth students with UC Irvine’s HELIOS lab, the program offers participants essential education on diabetes management, treatment options and healthy living choices. The program covers a broad range of topics, from nutritional counseling to lifestyle adjustments, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of the Latino/a population.

Since its inception, 37 patients across five successful cohorts have been enrolled in the program, with two pilot groups and three enhanced cohorts that included a curriculum developed with the support of the UCI/OC Latino Diabetes Initiative.

The results have been remarkable, with participants showing an average reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels from 8.5% to 7.5% over an average follow-up period of slightly more than five months. This improvement is statistically significant and equivalent to the impact of starting a new diabetes medication, which reduces the risk of complications by 40%.

"We are thrilled with the success of the GMV program and the positive impact it has had on the health of our patients," said Khodaparast. "This program empowers participants with the knowledge and tools to take control of their diabetes, improve their health and lead more fulfilling lives."

The fourth enhanced cohort, currently underway, features 13 participants who enrolled in February 2025. This cohort benefits from a unique collaboration with Project FoodBox (PFB), which provides home deliveries of fresh produce alongside the nutritional education provided during the classes. In addition, dietitian evaluations by PFB are helping patients make informed decisions about their diets.

The Diabetes GMV program has garnered significant support from private and corporate donors, including Hyundai Motor North America. Thanks to this support, the UCI Health federally qualified health center plans to expand the program to UCI Health Family Health Center — Santa Ana. It is also exploring offering the the visits in English to reach broader audiences.

Patient testimonials

The program's success can be measured not only through improved health outcomes but also through the words of the patients themselves.

Elena Aguilera, who has lived with diabetes for 15 years, shared her experience: "The class has been magnificent. I really enjoy how well the doctor explains everything, and I have learned so much about managing my diabetes and controlling my sugar levels."

Claudia Sanchez, diagnosed with prediabetes, emphasized the value of the program in preventing diabetes: "I came to learn what diabetes is really about and how to prevent it. The classes are well explained, and I've learned how to make healthier food choices to take care of my health."

Tomas Barrera, recently diagnosed with diabetes, added: "I had no idea about the impact of calories or the kinds of food I should avoid. The class has been so informative, and now I feel empowered to make better choices for my health."

Sonia Arias, who has lived with diabetes for 10 years, highlighted the importance of education: "The classes are very interesting, and the doctor answers all of our questions. I’ve learned how to understand my cholesterol and A1C levels, which I never knew how to read before."

Looking ahead

With the overwhelming success of the Diabetes GMV program, the UCI Health Family Health Center is committed to continuing and expanding this innovative model of care. Plans are already in motion to bring the program to more communities and enhance the support provided to patients living with diabetes.

"We are just getting started," said Khodaparast. "With the ongoing support from our donors, community partners, and the patients themselves, we are excited to continue expanding this program to help even more people live healthier lives."

For more information about the Diabetes Group Medical Visits at UCI Family Health Centers or to get involved, please contact 657-282-6356.

This program is a testament to the power of community-driven healthcare and the positive change that can occur when patients, healthcare providers and supporters come together to make a real difference. The UCI Family Health Centers are proud to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking initiative, leading the way in diabetes care and education for the Latino/a community.