CMS to Expand Diabetes Prevention Program

Another change proposed by the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) would expand the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) that will launch on January 1, 2018.

The program includes dietary coaching, lifestyle intervention, and moderate physical activity to prevent diabetes in pre-diabetic individuals. It will include 16 sessions in a classroom setting and monthly follow-up meetings to ensure healthy behaviors are being maintained.

The Department of Health and Human Services states that this program will provide cost savings and reduce spending. The DPP was the first preventative service model certified for expansion from the CMS Innovation Center, according to the CMS.

The proposal would allow suppliers of the program to submit claims to Medicare for providing preventative services to the program. A new process for these suppliers to enroll and receive compensation for services provided is also being proposed.

The CMS hopes that the expansion of DPP into Medicare can provide employers and insurers with an example of how to integrate prevention programs.

“Through expansion of the Diabetes Prevention Program, beneficiaries across the nation will be able to access a community-based intervention that prevents diabetes and keeps people healthy. This is part of our efforts for better care, smarter spending, and healthier people,” said Patrick Conway, acting principal deputy administrator and CMS chief medical officer. “Today’s proposal is an exciting milestone for prevention and population health.”