The American Diabetes Association (ADA) of Washington State is partnering with Seattle-based telehealth provider Numera to try and reach the diabetes community with a new approach to wellness and chronic health management. The patient-engagement app, called Numera Social, will help diabetes patients make dietary changes, guide them through the training regimen for an endurance bicycle ride.

The app, which is available in pilot on Facebook, as well as Facebook mobile platforms, is an attempt by the two groups to illustrate the benefits of using social media for health-related non-profit fundraising in addition to health and wellness. On Facebook, imply search for “ADA Washington State” within Facebook and load the application. The ADA  said it plans to add and develop the action plans and challenges to promote progress and continuing engagement.

"We are delighted to add Numera’s innovative social platform to our range of outreach strategies for stopping diabetes,” Paul Tobin, director for corporate development for the ADA of Washington State, said in a statement. “We see people's family and friends as important to motivation and long-term success for healthy lifestyle changes. We start by helping people make one change at a time using this application, and we know it will expand and build, positively impacting people's lives."