Healthcare

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make appropriations for CHIP for FY2008-FY2012. Revises requirements for annual state CHIP allotments to create a formula including: (1) a coverage factor, based on a state's prior spending adjusted for health care cost growth and child population growth; and (2) an uninsured children factor, based on the number of low-income uninsured children. Requires: (1) a two-year initial availability of CHIP allotments for all states and territories; and (2) reallocation to a shortfall state or territory of amounts equal to the projected shortfall. Extends the authority for qualifying states to use CHIP allotments for certain expenditures under SSA title XIX (Medicaid). Gives states the option to expand coverage of children under CHIP to up to 300% of the poverty line. Prescribes conditions for state plan amendment expansion of CHIP eligibility beyond the highest income eligibility permitted. Prescribes requirements for an Express Lane option for a state agency to determine a child's eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP. Provides for enhanced administrative funding for: (1) information technology used to simplify eligibility determinations; and (2) translation or interpretation services. Authorizes conveyance to a state Medicaid agency by a federal or another state agency or private entity of data potentially pertinent to Medicaid eligibility determinations. Provides for enhanced coverage cost assistance for states with increasing or high coverage rates among children. Gives states the option to require satisfactory documentary evidence for proof of citizenship or nationality for Medicaid eligibility purposes. Gives states the option to expand or add coverage of: (1) certain pregnant women and legal immigrants under Medicaid and CHIP; and (2) targeted low-income pregnant women under CHIP. Requires CHIP coverage of dental and mental health services. Requires a childhood obesity demonstration project. Establishes the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC). Requires updating and enhancement of quality of care measures for children Permits coverage of children of employees of a public agency in the state under CHIP.

Medicare for All Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Medicare for All Act - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII (Medicare for All) under which: (1) each eligible individual is entitled to benefits which include the full range and scope of benefits available under the original fee-for-service program under parts A (Hospital Insurance) and B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare), with parity in coverage of mental health benefits, subject to appropriate cost sharing; (2) each enrollee is free to choose his or her own doctor and private health plan; and (3) benefits are similar to or no less than the health benefits coverage under FEHBP (Federal Employees Health Benefits Program). Establishes the Medicare for All Trust Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose: (1) on the income of every enrolled individual a tax equal to 1.7% of wages received in excess of $25,000; (2) on every employer an excise tax equal to 7% of the wages paid to each enrolled employee; and (3) on the self-employment income of every enrolled individual, a tax equal to the applicable percentage of the self-employment income for such taxable year in excess of $25,000. Sets forth provisions governing application of this Act to collective bargaining agreements.

Children's Express Lane to Health Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Children's Express Lane to Health Coverage Act of 2007 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to give states the option of providing for simplified determinations of a child's or pregnant woman's financial eligibility for Medicaid or SCHIP that are made by a non-health federal or state agency administering a program providing nutrition or other public assistance. Allows state mechanized claims processing and information retrieval systems, for which Medicaid payments may be made, to include technology that enables inter-program connections and other technology that: (1) reduces the number of individuals inaccurately granted eligibility; (2) increases the number of individuals accurately granted eligibility; or (3) improves the efficiency of eligibility determinations. Authorizes relevant federal, state, local, and private entities to convey information about an individual to a person directly connected with the administration of a state Medicaid plan or SCHIP, if such information is used solely for the purposes of identifying, verifying, and enrolling individuals who are eligible.

Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through various federal agencies, to develop a national Shaken Baby Syndrome public health campaign. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop a National Action Plan and effective strategies to increase awareness of opportunities to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome; and (2) coordinate the Plan and strategies with evidence-based strategies and efforts that support families with infants and other young children. Directs the Secretary to carry out communication, education, and training about Shaken Baby Syndrome prevention, including efforts to communicate with the general public, such as by: (1) disseminating effective prevention practices and techniques to parents and caregivers; (2) producing evidence-based educational and information materials; and (3) carrying out Shaken Baby Syndrome training. Requires the Secretary to work to ensure that the parents and caregivers of children are connected to effective supports through the coordination of existing programs and networks or the establishment of new programs, including a 24-hour phone hotline and the development of an Internet website for round-the-clock support. Establishes a Shaken Baby Awareness Advisory Council to develop recommendations: (1) regarding the National Action Plan and effective strategies; and (2) related to support services for families and caregivers of young children.

Countdown to Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Countdown to Coverage Act of 2007 - Provides that if legislation ensuring accessible, affordable, and meaningful health insurance for all Americans is not enacted before the adjournment sine die of the 111th Congress: (1) federal contributions under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program for Members of Congress shall be prohibited; and (2) Members shall pay 100% of all premiums for such Programs. Requires the Institute of Medicine to notify the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the Secretary of the Senate, and the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of the House of Representatives: (1) that such legislation has not been enacted, if it has not been; and (2) the dates and adjustments required to take effect under this Act. Requires, upon receipt of such notice, OPM, the Secretary, and the CAO to make such adjustments.

Clinical Social Work Medicare Equity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Clinical Social Work Medicare Equity Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to exclude clinical social worker services from coverage under the Medicare skilled nursing facility prospective payment system (thus permitting direct payment under the Medicare program for clinical social worker services provided to residents of skilled nursing facilities).

Medicaid Access Project through Information Technology (MAP IT) Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Medicaid Access Project through Information Technology (MAP IT) Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a two-year project to demonstrate the impact of health information technology on chronic disease management under the Medicaid program of title XIX of the Social Security Act.

Medicare for All Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Medicare for All Act - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII (Medicare for All) under which: (1) each eligible individual is entitled to benefits which include the full range and scope of benefits available under the original fee-for-service program under parts A (Hospital Insurance) and B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare), with parity in coverage of mental health benefits, subject to appropriate cost sharing; (2) each enrollee is free to choose his or her own doctor and private health plan; and (3) benefits are similar to or no less than the health benefits coverage under FEHBP (Federal Employees Health Benefits Program). Establishes the Medicare for All Trust Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose: (1) on the income of every enrolled individual a tax equal to 1.7% of wages received in excess of $25,000; (2) on every employer an excise tax equal to 7% of the wages paid to each enrolled employee; and (3) on the self-employment income of every enrolled individual, a tax equal to the applicable percentage of the self-employment income for such taxable year in excess of $25,000. Sets forth provisions governing application of this Act to collective bargaining agreements.

PLAY Every Day Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Promoting Lifelong Active Communities Every Day Act or the PLAY Every Day Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to develop the Community Play Index to measure the policy, program, or environmental barriers in communities to participating in physical activity. Requires the Index to include: (1) measurements that examine barriers to physical activities across multiple settings; and (2) measurements to assist economically and culturally diverse communities in examining the social determinants of health. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to award grants to state health departments for work in partnership with community-based coalitions to plan and implement model communities of play that: (1) increase the physical spaces and places available for physical activity; (2) increase the opportunities for children and families to participate in quality play and the number of children and families participating in quality play; and (3) increase knowledge and awareness about the importance of individuals achieving 60 minutes of recommended physical activity every day.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Mental Health Month, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Expresses support for: (1) the goals and ideals of Mental Health Month; and (2) President Bush's Commission on Mental Health, including funding of it's 2003 findings that the failure to prioritize mental health is a national tragedy. Recognizes that mental well-being is equally as important as physical well-being and must be treated with parity to other illnesses. Applauds the new coalescing of national and community organizations and their work in promoting public awareness to reduce the stigma of mental health treatment and in providing critical information to support the people and families of those dealing with mental illness. Urges all organizations and health practitioners to promote information to reduce and eliminate stigma and to focus on mental well-being awareness, ensure access to appropriate services, and support overall quality of life for those living with mental illness.

Mental Health Care for Our Wounded Warriors Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2007

Mental Health Care for Our Wounded Warriors Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) members of the Armed Forces (members) deserve the best possible treatment for mental and physical illnesses and injuries sustained while in military service; (2) members should have access to mental health providers; (3) mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) should be treated with an urgency similar to physical ailments incurred by members; (4) there is a need to recruit, train, and retain more mental health care professionals to diagnose and treat members; and (5) there is a continued need for research, new treatments, and best practices for treating PTSD, as well as a long-term strategy for recruiting, training, and retaining the mental health workforce of the Department of Defense (DOD). Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish at least two centers of excellence in military mental health for, among other things, the development and implementation of DOD strategy for the prevention, identification, and treatment of combat-related mental health conditions, with an emphasis on PTSD and traumatic brain injury. Requires a report from the Secretary to the congressional defense committees on appropriate actions to address current personnel shortages in the DOD mental health workforce.

Catastrophic Health Coverage Promotion Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2007

Catastrophic Health Coverage Promotion Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish demonstration projects to provide health care coverage to individuals who: (1) are not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare benefits and have exceeded $10,500 in out-of-pocket health care costs in a year or an adjusted amount based on the average out-of-pocket costs of individuals with catastrophic illnesses in a state for the year; or (2) were receiving Medicare or Medicaid benefits but who have exhausted their eligibility and any additional private health insurance coverage. Directs the Secretary, in designing such demonstration projects, to use: (1) state risk pools; (2) reinsurance mechanisms for small businesses; (3) public or private arrangements for the provision of affordable health insurance coverage to cover catastrophic health care expenses; and (4) any combination of such arrangements. Requires the Secretary to establish demonstration projects to provide health insurance coverage for catastrophic health benefits to individuals who do not have health insurance coverage. Directs the Secretary, in designing such demonstration projects, to: (1) use a catastrophic health insurance product administered by private health insurance plans with a deductible indexed to income level or an adjusted deductible amount based on average out-of-pocket costs; and (2) subsidize such catastrophic coverage and allow subsidies on a sliding scale to offer an affordable product for individuals earning below 200% of the federal poverty level. Establishes evaluation requirements for the projects.

Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2007

Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2007 - Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to revise requirements for health care programs and services for Indians, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations. Provides for: (1) expanded coverage for qualified Indians in the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) under title XXI of the Social Security Act (SSA), as well as Medicare under SSA title XVIII and Medicaid under SSA title XIX; and (2) related payments to Indian Health Programs and Urban Indian Organizations operating in the state. Replaces the Urban Health Programs Branch with a Division of Urban Indian Health. Requires the Indian Health Service to be administered by an Assistant Secretary for Indian Health (currently, it is administered by a Director). Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Indian Health Service and Indian tribes and tribal organizations, to consolidate certain existing programs into a new program of comprehensive behavioral health, prevention, treatment, and aftercare for Indian tribes. Establishes the National Bipartisan Indian Health Care Commission to: (1) establish a study committee to study the extent of Indian health services needs; (2) review and analyze the study committee's report; and (3) make recommendations to Congress regarding the delivery of federal health care services to Indians. Provides for the confidentiality of medical quality assurance records created by or for any Indian Health Program or a health program of an urban Indian organization as part of a medical quality assurance program. Reauthorizes the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (as amended by this Act) through FY2017. Amends the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to direct the Secretary to establish the Native American Health and Wellness Foundation. Amends related SSA provisions to conform with this Act.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to lung cancer as a public health priority and the recommendations of the Lung Cancer Progress Review Group of the National Cancer Institute.

United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2007

Urges the President to: (1) declare lung cancer a public health priority and immediately lead a coordinated effort to reduce the mortality rate of lung cancer by 50% by 2015; (2) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to increase funding for lung cancer research; (3) direct the Secretary of Defense to develop a lung cancer screening and disease management program among members of the Armed Forces and veterans and diagnostic programs for the early detection of lung cancer; (4) appoint the Lung Cancer Scientific and Medical Advisory Committee; and (5) convene a National Lung Cancer Public Health Policy Board to oversee and coordinate all efforts to reduce the lung cancer mortality rate.

Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2007

Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to permit the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH): (1) acting through the Director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, to expand and coordinate NIH activities on paralysis research; (2) to award grants to plan, establish, improve, and provide basic operating support for Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Research Consortia; (3) to educate and disseminate information and receive public comment on NIH programs and research regarding paralysis; (4) acting through the Director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research, to expand and coordinate NIH research with implications for enhancing daily function for persons with paralysis; and (5) to make grants to plan, establish, improve, and provide basic operating support for multicenter clinical trial networks to design clinical rehabilitation intervention protocols and measures of outcomes on paralysis. Permits the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to study the health challenges associated with paralysis and other physical disabilities and carry out projects and interventions to improve the quality of life and long-term health status of individuals with such conditions. Permits the Secretary to award grants for activities related to paralysis, including to: (1) establish paralysis registries; and (2) disseminate information to the public.

Ethiopia Democracy and Accountability Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2007

Ethiopia Democracy and Accountability Act of 2007 - States that is U.S. policy to: (1) support human rights, democracy, independence of the judiciary, freedom of the press, peacekeeping capacity building, and economic development in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; (2) collaborate with Ethiopia in the Global War on Terror; (3) seek the release of all political prisoners and prisoners of conscience in Ethiopia; (4) foster stability, democracy, and economic development in the region; and (5) strengthen U.S.-Ethiopian relations. Directs the Secretary of State to take specified actions to support human rights and democratization in Ethiopia. Prohibits until the President makes specified congressional certifications: (1) security assistance to Ethiopia, with exceptions for peacekeeping or counter-terrorism assistance; and (2) U.S. entry of any Ethiopian official involved in giving orders to use lethal force against peaceful demonstrators or accused of gross human rights violations, and government security personnel involved in specified shootings of demonstrators and prisoners. Directs the President to provide assistance for the rehabilitation of Ethiopian torture victims. Expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. government should: (1) encourage the government of Ethiopia to enter into discussions with peaceful political groups to bring them into full participation in Ethiopia's political and economic affairs; and (2) provide necessary assistance to help achieve such goal. Directs the President to provide Ethiopia with: (1) resource policy assistance; and (2) health care assistance.

To repeal the Medicare cost containment provisions contained in subtitle A of title VIII of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003.

United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2007

Repeals the Medicare cost containment provisions of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003.

To provide for reclassification of Chautauqua County, New York, for purposes of payment for inpatient hospital services under the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2007

Provides for the reclassification of Chautauqua County, New York, for purposes of payment for inpatient hospital services under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Deems the large urban area of Buffalo-Niagara Falls, New York, to include Chautauqua County, effective for discharges occurring on or after September 30, 2007.

Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2007

Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas.

Optometric Equity in Medicaid Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2007

Optometric Equity in Medicaid Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require Medicaid coverage of medical and surgical services of optometrists that are otherwise covered when furnished by a physician.

Medicare Cost Contract Extension and Refinement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2007

Medicare Cost Contract Extension and Refinement Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to: (1) extend the period reasonable cost reimbursement contracts under Medicare can remain in the market, and the period during which they can be modified to expand their service area; and (2) apply to extended or renewed reasonable cost contracts certain requirements under Medicare part C (Medicare Advantage).

Alternative Fuel Standard Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Alternative Fuel Standard Act of 2007 - Amends the Clean Air Act to replace the renewable fuel program with an alternative fuel program. Includes within in the meaning of "alternative fuel" alcohols, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, hydrogen, coal-derived liquid fuels, fuels derived from biological materials, electricity, and other fuels that are not derived from crude oil and would yield energy security or environmental benefits. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish an alternative fuel program that: (1) ensures that motor vehicle and nonroad fuel sold or introduced into U.S. commerce contains a specified volume of alternative fuel; (2) establishes compliance provisions for refineries, blenders, distributors, and importers; and (3) provides for the generation, banking, trading, and use of identification numbers generated and assigned to each quantifiable unit of production of alternative fuel by the producer of any facility located in the United States and by the importer of alternative fuel imported into the United States. Prohibits the program from: (1) restricting the geographic area in which alternative fuel may be used; and (2) imposing any per-gallon obligation for the use of alternative fuel. Specifies such applicable volume of alternative fuel for each of calendar years 2010 through 2017 (rising from 10 billion gallons to 35 billion gallons). Requires the Administrator to determine the applicable volume for subsequent calendar years based on a review of the impact of the use of alternative fuels on public health, air and water quality, job creation, rural economic development, the expected annual rate of future production of alternative fuels, the reduction of the use of fuels derived from crude oil, energy security, and costs to consumers. Excludes from the term "cellulosic biomass ethanol" any ethanol produced in facilities where waste materials are used to displace 90% or more of the fossil fuel normally used in the production of ethanol. Provides for a waste-derived ethanol credit. Requires the Administrator to annually evaluate the domestic production and import capabilities relating to the required volumes of alternative fuel standard. Authorizes the Administrator to adjust the applicable volume of any alternative fuel for the following year if any condition affects the production or importation of alternative fuel, including drought, environmental degradation, economic unfeasibility, and national security interests.

Colon Cancer Screen for Life Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Colon Cancer Screen for Life Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of the Congress with respect to the use of and reimbursement for colorectal cancer screening tests covered under the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (SSA). Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) increase Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) reimbursement for colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic tests; (2) cover an outpatient office visit or consultation for the purpose of beneficiary education before a colorectal cancer screening test consisting of a colonoscopy, or in conjunction with the beneficiary's decision to obtain such a screening, regardless of whether the screening is medically indicated with respect to the beneficiary; and (3) waive the deductible for such tests.

State-Based Health Care Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

State-Based Health Care Reform Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Health Care Coverage Task Force to: (1) approve state, local, or tribal applications for a health care coverage grant; (2) submit a legislative proposal concerning such approvals and recommendations on the level of funding required; and (3) establish minimum performance measures with respect to coverage, quality, and cost of state health care programs. Prohibits the Task Force from approving an application that: (1) proposes to adopt more restrictive criteria for eligibility determinations for any federal, state, or local health care program; or (2) would result in making individuals enrolled in federal health programs ineligible. Requires states seeking a matching grant to submit to the Task Force a state health care plan that: (1) designates the lead state entity that will be responsible for administering the program; (2) describes the benefits that will be provided to all covered individuals; (3) describes the number and percentage of currently uninsured individuals who will achieve coverage; (4) describes how the state will ensure that an increased number of individuals residing within the state will have expanded access to health care coverage; (5) includes provisions to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of health care in the state; and (6) complies with premium and cost sharing limitations. Sets forth procedures for congressional consideration of legislative proposals and recommendations. Authorizes appropriations for the grant program and specifies offsetting savings and fee provisions. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise requirements for the reduction in the Medicare part B premium subsidy based on income.

Medicare Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Medicare Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize expansion of Medicare coverage of medical nutrition therapy services to diseases, conditions, or disorders other than diabetes or a renal disease.

Community Health Workers Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Community Health Workers Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to promote positive health behaviors for women and children in target populations, especially racial and ethnic minority women and children in medically underserved communities. Permits such funds to be used to support community health workers to: (1) educate and provide outreach regarding enrollment in health insurance; (2) educate, guide, and provide outreach regarding health problems among women and children, especially among racial and ethnic minority women and children; (3) educate, guide, and provide experiential learning opportunities that target behavioral risk factors, including poor nutrition and tobacco use; (4) educate and guide regarding effective strategies to promote positive health behaviors within the family; (5) promote community wellness and awareness; and (6) educate and refer target populations to appropriate health care agencies and community based programs and organizations. Requires the Secretary to give priority to experienced applicants who propose to target geographic areas: (1) with a high percentage of uninsured or underinsured residents who are eligible for health insurance; and (2) with a high percentage of families for whom English is not their primary language. Requires the Secretary to: (1) encourage community health worker programs to collaborate with academic institutions; and (2) establish guidelines for assuring the quality of the training and supervision of community health workers under programs funded under this Act and for assuring the cost-effectiveness of such programs.

Patient Protection and Innovative Biologic Medicines Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Patient Protection and Innovative Biologic Medicines Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow any person to submit an application for approval of a biologics license for a biological product that is claimed to be similar to a qualified biological product (reference product) after 12 years have elapsed since the reference product was approved or licensed. Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to approve such a similar biological product: (1) only if the applicant demonstrates that the product conforms to the applicable final product-class specific guidance and the Secretary concludes the product is safe, pure, and potent; (2) only for indications for which the reference product is approved; and (3) to be effective only after at least 14 years have elapsed since the reference product was approved or licensed. Prohibits the Secretary from designating a similar biological product as therapeutically equivalent to the reference product. Prohibits the Secretary from approving a product that is claimed to be similar to or the same as a reference product under any other provision of law. Authorizes any person to request issuance of product-class specific guidance applicable to a qualified biological product and its class. Requires the Secretary to establish a Similar Biological Products Advisory Committee. Sets forth provisions governing the naming of biotechnology-derived therapeutic protein and other biological products. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to deem a biotechnology-derived therapeutic protein to be misbranded if its labeling fails to meet the requirements of this Act.

Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) establish a program to screen veterans eligible for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital, medical, and nursing home care for symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI); (2) develop and carry out a program of long-term care for post-acute TBI rehabilitation; (3) establish a TBI transition office at each VA polytrauma network site to coordinate the provision of health care and services to veterans who suffer from moderate to severe TBI and are in need of health care and services not immediately offered by the VA; and (4) establish and maintain the Traumatic Brain Injury Veterans' Health Registry.

Vaccine Safety and Public Confidence Assurance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Vaccine Safety and Public Confidence Assurance Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Agency for Vaccine Safety Evaluation in the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Requires the Director for Vaccine Safety Evaluation to: (1) conduct or support safety research and monitor licensed vaccines; (2) develop a vaccine safety research agenda; (3) evaluate means to promote compliance with federal adverse reaction reporting requirements; (4) provide a clearinghouse for vaccine studies; (5) ensure that functions relating to vaccine monitoring or research on adverse reactions are not carried out by anyone with a conflict of interest; (6) oversee the Vaccine Safety Datalink Project; and (7) resolve U.S. conflicts of interest related to international agreements, partnerships, and activities. Allows the Director to establish a program of awarding fellowships for research on vaccine safety. Requires the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to provide the Director, upon request, with complete access to all vaccine-related information submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by vaccine manufacturers. Requires the Director to require vaccine manufacturers to: (1) provide for postmarketing surveillance and clinical testing for any acute or chronic adverse reactions associated with the vaccine; and (2) register in a qualified public registry each clinical trial conducted or supported by the manufacturer with respect to the vaccine. Transfers to the Agency Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) responsibilities for the Vaccine Safety Datalink Project, the Clinical Immunization Safety Assessment Centers, or any other post-licensure vaccine safety monitoring activities. Requires the Secretary to establish an advisory council in the Agency.

Municipal Illegal Immigration Relief Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Municipal Illegal Immigration Relief Act of 2007 - Authorizes grants to local governmental units for increased expenses incurred in responding to the needs of undocumented immigrants, including: (1) law enforcement; (2) health care; (3) inmate transportation; and (4) jail overcrowding.

National Health Information Incentive Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

National Health Information Incentive Act of 2007 - Establishes within the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services an Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to add a new part D (Building the National Health Information Infrastructure). Directs the Secretary to make additional Medicare payment incentives to assure that small medical care providers have the capability to move toward a national health care information infrastructure by acquiring electronic health record systems and other health information technologies. Provides for optional financial incentives to small health care providers and entities to implement such an infrastructure. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) make grants to small medical care providers for the purpose of assisting them to acquire and adopt patient registries, evidence-based clinical decision support tools at the point of care, electronic health records, secure e-mail, and other health information technologies defined by the Secretary as a key component of a national health care information infrastructure; and (2) make and guarantee loans to assist small medical care providers to acquire and adopt such things. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat qualified health care information technology as a depreciable asset for which a deduction from taxable income is allowable for the taxable year in which it is placed in service.

Community Environmental Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Community Environmental Equity Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit any entity that handles, manages, treats, releases, discharges, disposes, stores, transports, removes, moves, or delivers any covered substance from disproportionately exposing any person or community to such substance on the ground of race, color, national origin, or economic status. Defines "covered substance" to include: (1) any contaminant identified under the Safe Drinking Water Act; (2) any pesticide chemical under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; (3) any chemical listed as a known or probable human carcinogen under the National Toxicology Program of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); (4) any chemical substance or mixture regulated under the Toxic Substance Control Act; (5) any hazardous waste identified under the Solid Waste Disposal Act; (6) any pesticide registered under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act; and (7) any air pollutant regulated under the Clean Air Act. Requires such an entity to: (1) work in partnership with state and local government officials and the federal government to comply with this Act; and (2) address actual or potential disproportionate exposure to covered substances prior to pursuing authorization or approval to work with such substances. Authorizes enforcement: (1) by denial or termination of authorization to work with covered substances; (2) by any other means authorized by law; and (3) for an entity receiving federal financial assistance, through specified compliance provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Health Impact Profile Program to make grants to community-based organizations and community health centers to assist in the planning and development of community health impact profiles.

To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to permit local public agencies to act as Medicaid enrollment brokers.

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to permit local public agencies to act as Medicaid enrollment brokers.

Supporting the goals of National Infertility Awareness Week to raise awareness about the disease of infertility and the challenges men and women face in building a family, including protecting fertility, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Recognizes that: (1) infertility is a disease; and (2) knowledge about infertility will help people make educated decisions about family building. Commends RESOLVE: the National Infertility Association and other organizations for their efforts to promote greater public awareness about infertility. Expresses support for the goals of National Infertility Awareness Week. Acknowledges federal responsibility to raise awareness and improve education, encourage research, and improve access to information regarding infertility.

ACCESS TO U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTHCARE: HOW EASY IS IT FOR VETERANS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 18 April 2007

Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Amendments of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Amendments of 2007 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to make changes to provisions in regard to market exclusivity for pediatric drug studies on new drugs or already approved drugs, including to: (1) require that appropriate labeling changes are timely made; and (2) prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Services from extending the period of market exclusivity later than nine months prior to the expiration of such period. Requires an applicant or holder who does not agree with a request to conduct pediatric studies to submit to the Secretary the reasons such pediatric formulation cannot be developed. Directs the Secretary to: (1) publish a notice identifying any drug for which a pediatric formulation was developed, studied, and found to be safe and effective that is not introduced onto the market within one year; and (2) create an internal review committee to review all written requests issued and all reports submitted. Reduces market exclusivity for pediatric studies from six months to three months for drugs for which combined annual gross sales exceed $1 billion. Requires the Secretary to order the labeling of a drug to include information about the result of a pediatric study whether such study does or does not demonstrate that the drug is safe and effective. Requires the Comptroller General to submit a report to Congress that addresses the effectiveness of providing market exclusivity for pediatric studies in ensuring that medicines used by children are tested and properly labeled. Includes pediatric pharmacological research within the pediatric research loan repayment program.

Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas.

Honor Our Commitment to Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Honor Our Commitment to Veterans Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to administer the health care enrollment system of the Department of Veterans Affairs so as to enroll any eligible veteran who applies. (This directive in effect terminates an administrative freeze on the enrollment of veterans in the lowest priority enrollment category.)

Health Care for Hybrids Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Health Care for Hybrids Act - Requires the Secretaries of Energy, Health and Human Services, Transportation, and the Treasury to establish a task force to create a program to reimburse certain domestic automobile manufacturers for a portion (up to 10%) of the annual health care coverage costs for their retired employees. Requires such manufacturers to invest at least 50% of their health care cost savings in petroleum fuel reduction technologies, including alternative or flexible fuel vehicles and hybrids, and in the retraining of workers and retooling of manufacturing plants. Terminates such program on December 31, 2017. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) define economic substance for purposes of evaluating tax shelter transactions; (2) impose penalties for understatements of tax liability resulting from transactions lacking in economic substance; and (3) deny a tax deduction for interest assessed on underpayments of tax resulting from transactions lacking in economic substance.

Colon Cancer Screen for Life Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Colon Cancer Screen for Life Act of 2007- Expresses the sense of the Congress with respect to the use of and reimbursement for colorectal cancer screening tests covered under the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (SSA). Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) increase Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) reimbursement for colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic tests; and (2) cover an outpatient office visit or consultation for the purpose of beneficiary education before a colorectal cancer screening test consisting of a colonoscopy, or in conjunction with the beneficiary's decision to obtain such a screening, regardless of whether the screening is medically indicated with respect to the beneficiary.

Medicare Hearing Enhancement and Auditory Rehabilitation (HEAR) Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Medicare Hearing Enhancement and Auditory Rehabilitation (HEAR) Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover hearing aids and auditory rehabilitation services under the Medicare program.

Medicare Academic Anesthesiology and CRNA Payment Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Medicare Academic Anesthesiology and CRNA Payment Improvement Act of 2007- Amends title XVIII (Medicare) part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to set forth a special payment rule for teaching anesthesiologists (TAs) and teaching certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). Requires payment of 100% of the fee schedule amount otherwise applicable for anesthesia services personally performed by the TA alone when the TA is training physician residents or student nurse anesthetists in a single anesthesia case or two concurrent anesthesia cases, if: (1) the TA is present during all critical or key portions of the anesthesia service or case involved; and (2) either the TA or an anesthesiologist or a CRNA with whom the TA has made special arrangements is immediately available to furnish anesthesia services during the entire case. States that this special payment rule shall not apply in the case of physician services furnished by an anesthesiologist who medically directs a CRNA involved in the training of student nurse anesthetists in a single anesthesia case or two concurrent anesthesia cases. Applies to a CRNA medically directed or medically supervised by a physician in the performance of anesthesia services the current fee schedule amount of one-half of the amount for a physician's medical direction of the performance of such services, regardless of whether or not the CRNA is involved in the training of student nurse anesthetists in a single case or two concurrent cases. Requires payment, however, of 100% of the fee schedule amount otherwise applicable for anesthesia services personally performed by a teaching CRNA alone when the teaching CRNA is not medically directed but is involved in the training of student nurse anesthetists in a single anesthesia case or two concurrent anesthesia cases, if: (1) the teaching CRNA is present during all critical or key portions of the anesthesia service or case involved; and (2) the teaching CRNA (or other CRNA or anesthesiologist with whom the CRNA has made special arrangements) is immediately available to furnish anesthesia services during the entire case.

Health Care for Hybrids Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2007

Health Care for Hybrids Act - Requires the Secretaries of Energy, Health and Human Services, Transportation, and the Treasury to establish a task force to create a program to reimburse certain domestic automobile manufacturers for a portion (up to 10%) of the annual health care coverage costs for their retired employees. Requires such manufacturers to invest at least 50% of their health care cost savings in petroleum fuel reduction technologies, including alternative or flexible fuel vehicles and hybrids, and in the retraining of workers and retooling of manufacturing plants. Terminates such program on December 31, 2017. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) define economic substance for purposes of evaluating tax shelter transactions; (2) impose penalties for understatements of tax liability resulting from transactions lacking in economic substance; and (3) deny a tax deduction for interest assessed on underpayments of tax resulting from transactions lacking in economic substance.

Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Responsibility, and Opportunity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Responsibility, and Opportunity Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to local educational agencies, state and local public health agencies, and nonprofit private entities for projects to provide education on preventing teen pregnancies. Gives priority to communities with significantly above averages rates of teen pregnancy. Requires the Secretary to establish criteria to evaluate such projects. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to increase authorized appropriations for community learning centers. Authorizes appropriations for physical education programs. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to reauthorize appropriations for TRIO and GEARUP programs. Authorizes the Secretary to make matching grants to public or nonprofit private entities for demonstrating innovative approaches to prevent teen pregnancies.

Preventive Medicine and Public Health Training Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Preventive Medicine and Public Health Training Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to award grants to or enter into contracts with certain eligible entities to provide training to graduate medical residents in preventive medicine specialties. Requires grant funds to be used for: (1) residency programs for preventive medicine or public health; (2) financial assistance to resident physicians who plan to specialize in preventive medicine or public health; (3) preventive medicine or public health program costs, including curriculum development and practicum costs; and (4) the improvement of academic administrative units.

Post-Prostate Cancer Treatment Equity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Post-Prostate Cancer Treatment Equity Act of 2007 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the Public Health Service Act to require a group health plan that provides medical and surgical benefits with respect to prostate cancer treatment to provide coverage for: (1) all stages of reconstructive prosthetic urology surgery; and (2) prostheses and physical complications of prostatectomy. Requires plans to provide notice of the coverage. Prohibits a group health plan from: (1) denying to a patient eligibility or continued eligibility solely to avoid the requirements of this Act; or (2) penalizing or otherwise reducing or limiting the reimbursement of a provider or providing incentives to induce such provider to provide care to a participant or beneficiary in a manner inconsistent with this Act. Applies such requirements to coverage offered in the individual market.

Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) on a reasonable cost basis for anesthesia services furnished by a physician who is an anesthesiologist in certain rural hospitals in the same manner as payment is made for anesthesia services furnished by a certified registered nurse anesthetists in such hospitals.

Enhanced Options for Rural Health Care Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Enhanced Options for Rural Health Care Act of 2007 - Amends part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide that nothing in such title shall be construed as preventing a critical access hospital from using any of its designated number of beds to provide assisted living or from accepting private payments for related services. Declares that such use shall not increase the total number of beds that the facility may have and maintain its designation as such a hospital.

To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to permit States, at their option, to require certain individuals to present satisfactory documentary evidence of proof of citizenship or nationality for purposes of eligibility for Medicaid, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to permit states, at their option, to require certain individuals to present satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality for Medicaid eligibility. Revises the rules for children born in the United States to mothers eligible for Medicaid. Declares that a Medicaid-eligible individual shall be deemed to have provided satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality, and shall not be required to provide further evidence, on any date during or after the period in which the individual is eligible for Medicaid.

Child Health Care Affordability Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Child Health Care Affordability Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for the medical expenses of a dependent. Limits the amount of such credit to $500 (adjusted for inflation) per dependent. Increases the amount of the credit to $3,000 (adjusted for inflation) for a dependent who has a terminal disease, cancer, a disability, or any other health condition requiring hospitalization or other forms of specialized care. (Coordinates the credit allowed by this Act with the income tax credit for household and dependent care expenses and the income tax deduction for medical expenses to prevent a double tax benefit.)