Novel, On-demand VR to Amplify Practice Efficacy (NO VAPE)

Project Summary/Abstract The work proposed in this application is a supplement to the work Charles River Analytics is already conducting under our NIDA-funded SBIR (through a fast-track application) entitled Novel, On-demand VR for Accessible, Practical, and Engaging therapy (NO VAPE) (Grant # 1R44DA059018-01). Aim 2 of NO VAPE is to Solicit Feedback from Payors and FDA. To support positive coverage decisions by payors and meet FDA standards for medical device clearance, we will conduct at least five interviews with payors (Milestone 2a) and hold one FDA presubmission meeting (Milestone 2b) to finalize the design of the human factors evaluations and the Phase II clinical trial. If we are not accepted, we will contact payors on our own and conduct at least five interviews with companies such as Aetna, BlueCross/BlueShield, Cigna, Clover Health, Kaiser Permanente, and United Health Group (all of whom participate in the early payor feedback program). If we are accepted into I-Corps, we will use the resources to increase this goal and will conduct 100 total discovery interviews with potential customers, strategic partners, and other third-party stakeholders. While NO VAPE focuses on providing an immersive and engaging platform for individuals to practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) skills to quit vaping, Charles River’s long-term strategic goal is to become the preeminent supplier of metaverse tools for treatment of substance dependence (e.g., nicotine, alcohol, stimulants) and mental health issues (e.g., PTSD, OCD). Participation in the I-Corps Program will provide us with multiple opportunities to improve our approach to the commercialization of our NO VAPE platform, as well as our other metaverse tools.