H.R.3750 - Fostering Operational Readiness through Continuous Evaluation of Fitness with Integrated Technology Act; FORCE-FIT Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3750, the FORCE-FIT Act, directs the Secretary of Defense to establish a pilot program within TRICARE to provide continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology to certain members of the Armed Forces. The program aims to assess the effects of real-time metabolic health tracking and early intervention on improving member health and force readiness. Participation is required for members identified as Partially or Not Medically Ready.
Expected Effects
The implementation of this act will likely lead to improved health outcomes for participating service members through early detection and management of metabolic health issues. It could also enhance overall force readiness by reducing the number of personnel in medically compromised categories. The data collected will be used to evaluate the program's effectiveness and inform future healthcare strategies within the military.
Potential Benefits
- Improved health outcomes for service members with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or who are overweight/obese.
- Enhanced force readiness due to better management of metabolic health.
- Data-driven insights into the effectiveness of continuous glucose monitoring for preventative care in a military population.
- Potential cost savings in the long term through reduced healthcare needs and improved readiness.
- Increased awareness and education regarding metabolic health among service members and medical professionals.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential privacy concerns related to the collection and use of health data, despite the stated restrictions.
- Limited scope of the pilot program may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the technology's broader applicability.
- Possible burden on medical staff to implement and manage the program effectively.
- Risk of the technology not being suitable or effective for all participants.
- The program's reliance on specific definitions (e.g., Individual Medical Readiness program) could create administrative complexities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common defence" (Preamble) by aiming to improve the health and readiness of the armed forces. The focus on healthcare for military personnel falls under Congress's implied powers to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8). The data privacy provisions, while not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, reflect a modern interpretation of the right to privacy, though this right is not absolute and can be balanced against national security interests.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).