YMCA Evidence-Based Health Programs
Our YMCAs want North Carolina to be a healthier place. That’s why we are focused on health equity, social determinants of health, and providing important health and wellness services to those who need them most.
The Y's evidence-based prevention programs bridge clinical care and health promotion/chronic disease prevention programming in a supportive environment. Health care providers refer patients to these Y programs, which are led by certified health coaches and have proven successful in guiding people to make lifestyle changes that improve health.
YMCAs partner with HIPAA Secure Now to ensure that protected health information (PHI) for participants of the Y's evidence-based programs is safeguarded. NC YMCAs store patient data in a secure electronic platform, which enables the Y to share outcomes and progress with healthcare providers. This community-integrated health model supports healthier North Carolinians.
Some YMCA evidence-based programs are offered virtually as well as in person. Several North Carolina Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), provide access to some of these Y programs for their members who qualify and have a physician referral. Learn more.
Contact the Alliance at info@ncymcas.org to learn how to participate in a class or support as an MCO.
Blood Pressure Self-monitoring
This is an evidence-based program that features personalized support as participants develop the habit of monitoring their blood pressure. Research shows that the process of recording blood pressure at least twice a month over a period of four months lowers blood pressure.
Diabetes Prevention Program
This proven program helps overweight adults at risk for type 2 diabetes reduce their risk through lifestyle modification. Delivered by DPP lifestyle coaches, the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-approved curriculum.
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA
This small-group program helps adult cancer survivors reclaim their health following a cancer diagnosis. Through LIVESTRONG®, YMCAs create communities of cancer survivors and guide them through safe physical activity – leading to an improved quality of life.
Enhance®Fitness
This evidence-based group exercise program for older adults uses easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals (particularly those with arthritis) to stay active. Each class in the 16-week program includes cardiovascular, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises, while fostering strong social relationships between participants.
Moving for Better Balance
Moving for Better Balance is a 12-week evidence-based falls prevention program. The group exercise program uses the principles of Tai Chi. Qualified instructors teach eight Tai Chi movements modified especially for fall prevention, and participants meet twice a week for 24 sessions.
Healthy Weight and Your Child
Parents and children (ages 7-13) learn together through this 15-week family-based weight management program that focuses on healthy eating, physical activity and behavior modification. The program empowers children and families to live a healthier and active lifestyle.
Weight Loss Program
The 12-week YMCA Weight Loss Program is designed to help adults seeking a healthier weight achieve their goals by making small, modest changes to their daily behaviors and forming sustainable, healthy habits.