My Diabetes Tutor's pediatric education services aim to educate children about the illness. Photo contributed

After years of continued success and expansion in the Central Valley, a locally-based telehealth program is extending its reach beyond California.

My Diabetes Tutor has partnered with Aetna Better Health of Illinois to further its mission of health education for both adult and pediatric patients, according to a news release.

Founded by Dr. Prem Sahasranam, My Diabetes Tutor, provides self-management education tools and support for adult and pediatric patients. The company recently launched a first-of-its-kind pediatric tool to help young patients educate themselves about the illness.

The program has served nearly 10,000 adult patients through more than 80,000 learning sessions and has recorded an average 1.6% drop in A1C — a blood test measuring average glucose levels over the span of several months.

Sahasranam said the expansion and partnership will provide Aetna members in Illinois with personalized virtual diabetes education and support.

“This collaboration reflects what diabetes care should look like: accessible, personalized and built to meet people where they are,” Sahasranam said. “Too many patients face unnecessary barriers to education and support that could change the course of their health.”

Aetna Better Health of Illinois said that the program was chosen for its ability to deliver meaningful clinical improvement in high-need areas.

“Alongside My Diabetes Tutor, we are expanding access to personalized diabetes education and support that can help members better manage their condition, improve their health and overcome barriers that too often stand in the way of care,” said Melanie Fernando, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Illinois. 

My Diabetes Tutor provides culturally-competent care, Sahasranam said, with 40% of educators native Spanish speakers, furthering education, communication and engagement among users.

“We’re proud to help bring proven diabetes education to scale in Illinois through care that is personal, accessible and designed for real life,” Sahasranam said.