S. 3692: Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-based Strategies Act

This bill, known as the Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-based Strategies Act, or the PREVENT DIABETES Act, aims to improve access to diabetes prevention programs for Medicare beneficiaries through virtual means.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Inclusion of Virtual Programs: The bill allows entities that provide virtual diabetes prevention services to participate in the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2029. This inclusion is significant as it recognizes the value and effectiveness of remote learning and online formats in delivering health services.
• Claims Submission: Virtual program providers will not be restricted from submitting claims for payment based on the location of the Medicare beneficiary. This means that a beneficiary can receive services from an MDPP supplier located in a different state, which helps expand access to care for individuals regardless of their geographical location.
• No Enrollment Limits: The bill removes limits on the number of times an individual can enroll in the MDPP. This provision is intended to encourage ongoing participation in diabetes prevention efforts, allowing beneficiaries to re-enroll as needed.

Definitions Included in the Bill

The bill includes specific definitions for key terms:

• MDPP: The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program, which serves to provide structured lifestyle interventions for individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Distance Learning and Online: These terms refer to the methods of delivering MDPP services virtually, allowing participants to engage remotely.
• MDPP Beneficiary: Refers to individuals enrolled in the MDPP program.
• Secretary: Refers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, who is responsible for the implementation of this bill.

Implementation

The bill grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services the authority to implement its provisions through program instruction or other means, ensuring that necessary steps can be taken to actualize the benefits of the bill effectively.

Relevant Companies

• AMGN - Amgen, a biopharmaceutical company that may be involved in diabetes care and related education programs.
• ABBV - AbbVie, which also focuses on diabetes management and treatments that could benefit from increased virtual engagement strategies.
• NOVA - Nova Diabetes Care provides testing and management devices, and could see increased demand as virtual programs expand.