Tulsa Standard

The House Committee on Ways and Means has approved Representative Kevin Hern's (R-OK-01) proposal to enhance healthcare treatments by increasing access to Prescription Digital Therapeutics (PDTs). This measure is part of H.R. 8816, the American Medical Innovation and Investment Act of 2024.

The legislation aims to create Medicare pathways for covering PDTs, which are software-based treatments designed to address diseases directly. These therapies function similarly to traditional prescription drugs but utilize cognitive therapy delivered through software rather than physical medication. The treatments undergo safety and efficacy testing in randomized clinical trials, are evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and are prescribed by healthcare providers.

"Technology has tremendously improved our lives in so many ways; it’s time we apply that to our medical care," said Rep. Hern. "Prescription digital therapeutics will provide important benefits to patients - such as mental health resources for veterans - while unlocking untold potential in new technologies. I’m proud to have introduced this legislation in the House to ensure Americans have access to cutting-edge care."

"Congress has a responsibility to support providers and innovators with the tools they need to deliver the highest level of care to patients," stated Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith. "Congressman Hern’s bill will give Medicare beneficiaries access to digital therapeutics that show great promise in behavioral therapy and treatment for other diseases, disorders, and conditions. Opening up this technology to patients will help our health system stay ahead of the curve by helping identify and treat disease before it progresses."

The legislation now advances to the House of Representatives for a full vote expected later this summer.