Us Congress House Bill HB7856

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/26/24

Caption

PREVENT DIABETES Act Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-based Strategies Act

Impact

The legislation will significantly affect coverage for diabetes prevention by integrating these services into Medicare, thereby allowing beneficiaries who meet certain eligibility criteria to participate. The bill states that there's no lifetime limit on participation, allowing individuals to engage with the program multiple times if necessary. This is expected to enhance health outcomes for those at risk of developing type II diabetes by providing them access to structured support and resources aimed at effective health behavior changes.

Summary

House Bill 7856, known as the PREVENT DIABETES Act, is designed to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include coverage for the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP). The bill seeks to facilitate expanded access to services aimed at preventing or delaying the onset of type II diabetes for eligible individuals. This program will be structured to include behavioral health change sessions delivered by accredited providers that follow specific Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote public health, points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and oversight mechanisms of the program. It grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services considerable authority in managing and updating program regulations, which some stakeholders may view as overly centralized. Additionally, potential conflicts could emerge around the termination of program suppliers who do not comply with the new standards or provide inadequate services, raising questions about protections for eligible individuals covered under the program.