Refer Patient for Diabetes Education

How to refer your patient to Scripps

Using EPIC

  • Search keyword “Whittier”
  • Place referral


Non-electronic referrals

What programs require a referral?

The following Scripps programs and services require a physician referral.


Diabetes Education and Nutrition 

Group classes and individual counseling for: 


  • Blood glucose monitoring
  • Healthy eating and physical activity
  • Advanced carbohydrate counting and blood glucose pattern management for those using insulin
  • Diabetes management during pregnancy


Requires a diabetes ICD-10 diagnosis code. Covered by most insurance companies.


Medical Nutrition Therapy 

Individual counseling sessions for:


  • Diabetes
  • Weight management
  • Hypertension
  • Hyperlipidemia
  • Cancer, renal disease, etc.


Requires an ICD-10 diagnosis code. Covered by most insurance companies. 


Diabetes Behavioral Specialist 

Group classes and individual counseling for people experiencing the following:


  • Diabetes distress
  • Behavior-related challenges in managing diabetes


Availability is limited and patients may be directed to group sessions.

Free programs without a referral

Physicians may refer patients to the following no-cost programs at Scripps, but referrals are not required. Eligibility criteria does apply. Patients may enroll without a referral by calling 858-678-7050 or toll free at 877-944-8843, or by email at scrippsdiabetescare@scrippshealth.org.


Diabetes Prevention Program 

Group classes for: 


  • Intensive lifestyle intervention
  • Overweight adults with a diagnosis of prediabetes
  • Lifestyle coaching for 16 weekly sessions and semi- monthly follow-up sessions for the rest of the year-long program.


Inclusion criteria:

Adult (18 years and over) with BMI over 25 (23 if Asian), AND have one of the following: 


  • Blood test in the prediabetes range within the past year: HbA1c 5.7% – 6.4% or FPG 110-125 mg/dL or OGTT 140-199 mg/dL, OR
  • Previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes, OR
  • Screen positive on the CDC prediabetes screening test


Exclusion criteria: People with a diagnosis of diabetes or currently using insulin.


Healthy Living Classes 

Group classes for:


  • Healthy living tips over three sessions 
  • Adoption of three specific healthy behaviors to prevent chronic disease (nutritious diet, physical activity, not smoking) 
  • Anyone interested in preventing chronic disease, such as heart disease or diabetes, by learning to live a healthier lifestyle