Healthcare

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act with respect to the accreditation of osteopathic residency training programs for purposes of graduate medical education payments under the Medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2016

This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to modify, with respect to graduate medical education (GME) payments under the Medicare program, provisions related to "approved medical residency training programs" by: (1) specifying that such programs include osteopathic community residency training programs; and (2) replacing the requirement for such programs to include certain postgraduate training in geriatric medicine with a requirement for approval by a certified accrediting body. Under current law, a "foreign medical graduate" is generally a resident who was not a graduate of a school that meets the standards for accreditation by one of several specified accreditors. (Foreign medical graduates are subject to certain examination requirements for purposes of being counted as residents with respect to Medicare GME payments.) The bill alters this definition such that a "foreign medical graduate" is a resident who is not a graduate of an accredited school. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services must certify at least two accrediting bodies for the purpose of accrediting medical residency training programs in allopathic and osteopathic medicine.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should award the Presidential Medal of Freedom, posthumously, to Mrs. Henrietta Lacks, in recognition of her invaluable contribution to modern science in the form of her own immortal cells-HeLa cells-without which life-saving medicines and procedures would not have been developed at critical moments in our Nation's history.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2016

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the President should award the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously to Mrs. Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her invaluable contribution to modern science in the form of her own immortal cells, called HeLa cells; and (2) the case of Mrs. Lacks has spurred the medical and scientific communities to recognize their role in perpetuating racial and socioeconomic bias and has enabled the establishment of greater health care protections for patients.

To name the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system in Long Beach, California, the "Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center".

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

This bill designates the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system at 5901 East 7th Street, Long Beach, California, as the "Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center."

Veteran Mental Health Care Expansion Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

Veteran Mental Health Care Expansion Act of 2016 This bill provides that a bar on veterans benefits shall not apply to counseling and related mental health services for an individual if the Department of Veterans Affairs determines that, at the time of the commission of an offense leading to such individual's court-martial, discharge, or resignation, such individual had a service-connected disability related to mental health.

Expressing the sense of Congress that public health professionals should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the United States on "Public Health Thank You Day", November 21, 2016.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

Expresses the sense of Congress that public health professionals are to be celebrated, commended, and thanked on Public Health Thank You Day for their profoundly important contributions to the nation.

ALLOW Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Alternatives to Licensing that Lower Obstacles to Work Act of 2016 or the ALLOW Act This bill declares, for purposes of establishing an individual's authorization to engage in an occupation on a military installation located on federally-owned land, that the federal government endorses occupational licenses and certifications granted by a state (including the District of Columbia [DC]), regardless of whether the installation is located in the issuing state or DC, provided that: the license or certification is not expired, revoked, or suspended by the issuing state; and there are no outstanding enforcement actions against the individual brought by the licensing board or certifying authority for that occupation in the issuing state. District of Columbia Occupational Licensing Reform Act The bill declares DC policy regarding occupational licensing laws. The bill establishes an Office of Supervision of Occupational Boards in the office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, or another appropriate DC government agency, to be responsible for exercising active supervision over each occupational licensing board to ensure compliance with occupational licensing policy. The bill prescribes procedures for the Office's review, approval, or rejection of occupational licensure actions before their adoption. The DC Council shall establish a legislative committee to analyze occupational regulations and review any proposed legislation to impose or modify an occupational regulation to ensure compliance. An individual may engage in a lawful occupation without being subject to occupational regulations that are arbitrary or unnecessary and substantially burdensome. The DC government and its boards may not require an occupational license, certification, or registration for a person, or impose any other occupational regulation that imposes a substantial burden on a person, unless: the government has an important interest in protecting against present and recognizable harm to public health, safety, or welfare; and the regulation is substantially related to achievement of that interest. Any person providing tour guide services for a fee at certain national parks and memorials shall not be required to obtain a license, certification, or permit to provide those services.

Homeless Veterans Services Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Homeless Veterans Services Protection Act of 2016 This bill eliminates the minimum continuous active duty service requirement for homeless veterans to receive certain benefits, including: (1) outreach, (2) rehabilitative services, (3) vocational counseling and training, (4) transitional housing assistance, (5) supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing, and (6) health care for homeless veterans with special needs. Homeless veterans are exempted from disqualification for such benefits because of discharge or dismissal from the Armed Forces under conditions other than honorable, except for discharge by reason of a general court-martial. "Veteran" is defined for purposes of such benefits as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, regardless of length of service and who was discharged or released from service other than by a dishonorable discharge or by reason of a general court-martial. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shall conduct related training and education for appropriate VA and grant recipient personnel. Services for which a homeless veteran receives a grant under the VA comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans may include furnishing care for a dependent under the veteran's care.

A resolution expressing support for the designation of November 2016 as "National Bladder Health Month".

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Expresses support for the designation of November 2016 as National Bladder Health Month.

Accelerating New Pharmaceutical Competition Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Accelerating New Pharmaceutical Competition Act This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to permit brand name drug applications to rely upon investigations conducted in certain foreign countries if the drug has been approved in the foreign country where the investigations were conducted. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has 90 days to act on these applications. The bill revises a provision regarding the effective date of the approval of a generic drug that is subject to a patent infringement action. The FDA must prioritize the review of, and act within 150 days on, generic drug applications or supplements to generic drug applications for drugs: (1) for which there is a shortage, or (2) that have not been recently introduced to the market by more than one manufacturer and for which tentative approval has not been granted to more than two applications.

Student Worker Exemption Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Student Worker Exemption Act of 2016 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude students who are employed by an institution of higher education (IHE) and carrying a full-time academic workload at the IHE from being counted as full-time employees in calculating the IHE's shared responsibility regarding health care coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

A resolution designating September 2016 as "National Dystonia Awareness Month" and raising awareness and understanding of the disorder of dystonia.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Designates September 2016 as National Dystonia Awareness Month. (Dystonia is a neurological disorder that is characterized by repetitive, involuntary muscle contractions.) Recognizes the need for additional research to find a cure for dystonia. Encourages people and groups to support National Dystonia Awareness Month through ceremonies and activities to promote public awareness of dystonia and foster the understanding of the impact of dystonia on patients and their families.

A resolution designating September 2016 as "Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Designates September 2016 as Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month. (Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of the lungs that causes breathing problems.) Expresses continued support for more robust and accelerated research to develop more effective treatments for pulmonary fibrosis and to ultimately find a cure for the disease. Recognizes the courage and contributions of individuals with pulmonary fibrosis who participate in clinical trials. Commends the dedication of those working to improve the quality of life of individuals with pulmonary fibrosis and the families of those individuals.

A resolution designating September 22, 2016, as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Day" to raise awareness and encourage the prevention of falls among older adults.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Designates September 22, 2016, as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Recognizes that there are cost-effective falls prevention programs and policies. Commends the Falls Free Coalition and others for their efforts to increase awareness of falls prevention. Recognizes the: (1) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for its work to make falls prevention a routine part of clinical care, and (2) Administration for Community Living for its work to promote access to evidence-based programs and services.

A resolution expressing support for the designation of the month of September 2016 as "Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month" in order to educate communities across the United States about sickle cell disease and the need for research, early detection methods, effective treatments, and preventative care programs with respect to sickle cell disease.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month. (Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder than can lead to pain, anemia, infections, and stroke.) Encourages people to hold events and activities to raise awareness of preventive care programs, treatments, and other patient services for those suffering from sickle cell disease.

A resolution designating the week of October 9 through October 15, 2016, as "National Case Management Week" to recognize the role of case management in improving health care outcomes for patients.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Designates the week of October 9-October 15, 2016, as National Case Management Week. Recognizes the role of case management in providing successful and cost-effective health care.

A resolution commemorating 100 years of health care services provided by Planned Parenthood.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Expresses support for the preventive services that Planned Parenthood Federation of America doctors, nurses, and staff provide to patients. Recognizes that Planned Parenthood is a safety net provider that reaches medically underserved people. Declares that Planned Parenthood should not be defunded, attacked, or discriminated against for being a women's health care provider.

HEALTH CARE FRAUD INVESTIGATIONS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 September 2016

Truth in Regulations Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Truth in Regulations Act of 2016 This bill requires each executive agency to: (1) have written procedures for the approval of significant guidance documents by each appropriate senior agency official; and (2) maintain on its website a list of, links to, and a means for the public to comment on and request issuance, modification, or rescission of, such documents. "Significant guidance document" means a guidance document disseminated to regulated entities or the general public that may reasonably be anticipated to: lead to an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more or adversely affect in a material way the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, public health or safety, or state, local, or tribal governments or communities; create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with an agency action; materially alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan programs or the rights and obligations of recipients; or raise novel legal or policy issues arising out of legal mandates, the President's priorities, or the principles set forth in Executive Order 12866 (relating to regulatory planning and review). The bill requires agencies to publish drafts of economically significant guidance documents for public comment. The bill allows an exception to rulemaking notice and publication requirements when an agency determines that an imminent threat to public health or safety or a similar exigent circumstance exists. When such exception is applied, the agency, within 18 months after the rule takes effect, shall: (1) provide for a period in which interested persons may submit written data, views, or arguments; and (2) consider such submissions and, if appropriate, repeal or amend the rule. If a committee reports a joint resolution of disapproval for a rule, the committee may also submit recommendations on withholding agency funds to the Committee on Appropriations of that chamber. The Administrative Conference of the United States shall study and report on the permitting process under environmental laws and on categories of federal rulemaking that would be more appropriately addressed by state action. An agency shall report any determination pertaining to a permit that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs determines would cost more than $25 million to the Administrative Conference.

Comprehensive Fentanyl Control Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Comprehensive Fentanyl Control Act This bill amends the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to modify the definition of "controlled substance analogue" to mean a substance that has a similar (previously, substantially similar) chemical structure and pharmacological effect to a schedule I controlled substance. Additionally, it modifies the treatment of controlled substance analogues. Under current law, a controlled substance analogue that is intended for human consumption is treated as a schedule I controlled substance. This bill replaces the "intended for human consumption" qualifier with a "not a chemical substance subject to the Toxic Substances Control Act" qualifier. Specifically, a controlled substance analogue that is not a chemical substance under the Toxic Substances Control Act is treated as a schedule I controlled substance. The bill modifies the drug quantity thresholds that trigger a mandatory minimum prison term for a defendant who manufactures, distributes, or possesses with intent to distribute fentanyl. It also establishes a consecutive mandatory prison term for a defendant who commits a drug offense involving a detectable amount of heroin or fentanyl. The bill allows the Drug Enforcement Administration to temporarily place a substance into schedule I if it reasonably believes that the substance: (1) is a synthetic opioid analgesic; (2) is the object of clandestine importation, manufacture, or distribution; and (3) poses an imminent hazard to public health and safety. Finally, the bill makes it a crime to knowingly mail to an unauthorized person equipment that may be used to manufacture counterfeit controlled substances.

Veterans' Health Care Safety Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Veterans' Health Care Safety Act of 2016 This bill prohibits implementation of a proposed Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rule to permit full practice authority of all VA advanced practice registered nurses when they are acting within the scope of their VA employment.

VA Health Care Provider Education Debt Relief Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

VA Health Care Provider Education Debt Relief Act of 2016 This bill increases the annual and five-year caps on the amount of education debt reduction available to Veterans Health Administration health care professionals under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education debt reduction program. The VA may waive such caps for a participant working in a geographical area designated by the Department of Health and Human Services as a health professional shortage area with respect to such participant's specialty or assignment.

Ensuring Healthy Beginnings Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Ensuring Healthy Beginnings Act This bill amends title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) of the Social Security Act to require the Department of Health and Human Services, in awarding grants for maternal, infant, and early childhood home visitation programs, to give priority to applications submitted by certain governmental entities that are working in partnership with qualified community partners. A "qualified community partner" is a local educational agency, elementary or secondary school, a law enforcement agency, or a health care entity that provides specified services and assistance to pregnant women, infants, and young children.

Donald Payne Sr. Colorectal Cancer Detection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Donald Payne Sr. Colorectal Cancer Detention Act of 2016 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare coverage and payment, subject to specified frequency limits, of certain colorectal cancer screening blood-based tests.

Hospital Outcomes Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Hospital Outcomes Act of 2016 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to replace the existing methodology for calculating Medicare payment adjustments for subsection (d) hospitals based on outcomes in readmissions and complications with a new methodology based on potentially avoidable outcomes in those areas. (In general, a "subsection (d) hospital" is an acute care hospital that receives payments under Medicare's inpatient prospective payment system.) The bill: (1) establishes a methodology for determining a hospital's financial impact attributable to potentially avoidable outcomes performance with regard to complications and readmissions, and (2) requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to select methodologies for identifying potentially avoidable outcomes in these categories. Subject to both a ceiling and a floor, a hospital's payment adjustment factor for an applicable prospective period shall be based on the ratio of the hospital's financial impact to the aggregate amount of standardized payments made to the hospital with respect to that period. CMS must ensure budget neutrality with respect to application of the payment adjustment factor across all subsection (d) hospitals. CMS shall regularly report to hospitals and to the public on each hospital's performance with regard to potentially avoidable outcomes.

Medigap Consumer Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Medigap Consumer Protection Act of 2016 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) expand guaranteed issue rights with respect to Medigap policies (Medicare supplemental health insurance policies), (2) eliminate certain limitations on Medigap policies for newly eligible Medicare beneficiaries, and (3) modify other provisions related to Medigap policies. ("Guaranteed issue" rights require that a policy be offered to any eligible applicant without regard to health status.)

ACO Assignment Improvement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

ACO Assignment Improvement Act of 2016 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to establish additional requirements for assigning Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries to accountable care organizations (ACOs) under the Medicare shared savings program. (The program enables ACOs to receive payments for savings stemming from care coordination and management.) Specifically, the bill requires the basis for assignment to reflect beneficiaries' utilization of not only primary care services provided by ACO physicians, but also those provided by other ACO practitioners. Other ACO practitioners include physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified registered nurse anesthetists, certified nurse-midwives, clinical social workers, clinical psychologists, and registered dieticians or nutrition professionals.

PUSH Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Pre-Claims Undermine Seniors' Health Act of 2016 or the PUSH Act of 2016 This bill delays the Medicare demonstration for pre-claim review of home health services and requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to report on such pre-claim review. Specifically, CMS shall delay or suspend the demonstration by the later of: (1) one year after either the bill's enactment or the demonstration's scheduled start-date, as applicable; or (2) six months after CMS submits its report. 

Medicaid Gap Relief Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Medicaid Gap Relief Act of 2016 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt certain low-income residents of states that have not expanded Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) from the ACA's individual mandate to maintain health insurance coverage.

ACTivate Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

ACT to Improve VA Timing and Efficiency or the ACTivate Act This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to: (1) seek to award contracts to private entities to assist with scheduling and managing appointments for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, and (2) ensure that such private entity assistance augments the VA's scheduling and appointment process.

Expressing support for policies that maintain a robust Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not jeopardize care for veterans by moving essential resources to the private sector.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Declares that the House of Representatives: supports policies that provide necessary resources to serve veterans by maintaining a robust Veterans Health Administration (VHA); opposes policies that would jeopardize care for veterans by moving essential resources away from the VHA and into the private sector; and supports policies that would create integrated health care networks for veterans, with the VHA serving as the coordinator and primary provider of care and selected high-quality community partners providing care as needed to ensure timely and convenient access for enrolled veterans.

Climate Solutions Commission Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Climate Solutions Commission Act of 2016 This bill establishes a bipartisan National Climate Solutions Commission that must: undertake a comprehensive review of economically viable actions or policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the United States; make recommendations for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the President, Congress, and the states; and use as its goals for emissions reductions those estimated rates of reduction that reflect the latest scientific findings of what is needed to avoid serious human health and environmental consequences of a changing climate. In order to be eligible for membership on the Commission, an individual must be a representative from: (1) nongovernmental organizations with expertise in the economy, energy, climate, or public health; or (2) industry organizations from relevant sectors. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) must conduct a study of programs, financial tools, and institutions that are focused on: (1) reducing the level of greenhouse gas emissions; or (2) encouraging the research, development, prototyping, and deployment of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The GAO must then report on: (1) the study results; and (2) an assessment of those financial tools, policies, and institutions that are most successful at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while protecting economic growth and employment.

EPI Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Eliminate Price Increases Act of 2016 or the EPI Act This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit the manufacturer of a brand name drug from authorizing or commencing the manufacturing, marketing, selling, or distributing of a generic version of the drug from the time the manufacturer is notified by a generic manufacturer that a generic drug application has been submitted until the expiration or forfeiture of the 180-day exclusivity period granted to the generic manufacturer.

Ban Poisonous Additives Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Ban Poisonous Additives Act of 2016 This bill bans food containers composed, in whole or in part, of bisphenol A (BPA). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may grant waivers to a facility for a particular product if the facility: (1) demonstrates that it is not technologically feasible to replace BPA in the container or to use a BPA-free container, and (2) submits to the FDA a plan and time line for removing BPA from the container. Products granted a waiver must include a warning on the label. The FDA must promote and facilitate the use of BPA replacements. BPA may not be replaced with substances that: (1) are known or likely human carcinogens; (2) have been found by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic; (3) cause reproductive or developmental toxicity; or (4) are endocrine disrupting chemicals. The FDA must review substances that may be found in food, including food additives and food contact substances, and take remedial action if it does not determine that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure, taking into consideration potential adverse effects from low-dose exposure and the effects on vulnerable populations and populations with high exposure. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the manufacturer or supplier of a food contact substance to notify the FDA of the identity and intended use of the substance prior to its introduction into interstate commerce and that: (1) no adverse health effects result from low-dose exposures to the substance, and (2) the substance has not been shown to cause reproductive or developmental toxicity in humans or animals.

Addiction Recovery through Family Deductions Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Addiction Recovery through Family Deductions Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to expand certain deductions and exclusions to include expenses related to alcohol and drug addiction treatments for specified family members who are not dependents. The bill allows the expenses to be treated as: (1) medical care for the purpose of the deduction for medical care, and (2) qualified Indian health care benefits for the purpose of the exclusion from gross income of the value of any qualified Indian health care benefit. The bill also allows insurance covering alcohol and drug addiction treatment for the non-dependent family members to be treated as insurance that constitutes medical care for the purpose of the deduction for health-insurance costs of self-employed individuals.

Protecting Our Kids' Medicine Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Protecting Our Kids' Medicine Act of 2016 This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit the sale of liquid formulations of over-the-counter drugs that are not packaged with a dosage delivery device, such as a calibrated cup or spoon, and that do not have measurements on the label and on the dosage delivery device exclusively in metric units. The Food and Drug Administration may waive the requirement for metric units if that requirement would not benefit public health. Over-the-counter liquid drugs labeled for pediatric use may not be sold without a flow restrictor or another mechanism to reduce accidental ingestion.

Reciprocity Ensures Streamlined Use of Lifesaving Treatments Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Reciprocity Ensures Streamlined Use of Lifesaving Treatments Act of 2016 This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish a reciprocal marketing approval process that allows for the sale of a drug, biological product, or medical device that has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) if the product is approved for sale in another country. For a product to be granted reciprocal marketing approval, the product's sponsor must submit a request to the FDA that demonstrates: (1) the product may be sold in at least one country from a specified list of countries, (2) the FDA and listed countries have not withdrawn approval of the product because of safety or effectiveness concerns, and (3) there is a public health or unmet medical need for the product. The FDA may: (1) require postmarket studies of a product granted reciprocal marketing approval, or (2) decline to approve a product that is not safe and effective. The FDA must grant or decline reciprocal marketing approval not later than 30 days after receiving a request. During that period, the FDA and product sponsor must negotiate and finalize product labeling and, for a medical device, classify the device. Congress may pass a joint resolution to grant reciprocal marketing approval to a product that the FDA declines to approve through this process. User fees apply to requests for reciprocal marketing approval. The FDA must encourage the sponsors of potentially eligible products to request reciprocal marketing approval.

MISSION ZERO Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Military Injury Surgical Systems Integrated Operationally Nationwide to Achieve ZERO Preventable Deaths Act or the MISSION ZERO Act This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response to award grants to certain trauma centers to enable military trauma care providers and trauma teams to provide trauma care and related acute care at those trauma centers. Funds may be used to train and incorporate military trauma care providers into the trauma center, including expenditures for malpractice insurance, office space, information technology, specialty education and supervision, trauma programs, and state license fees. Grantees must allow the military trauma care providers to be deployed for military operations, training, or response to a mass casualty incident.

Enhancing Minority and Women Representation in NIH Medical Research Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Enhancing Minority and Women Representation in NIH Medical Research Act of 2016 This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the National Institutes of Health (NIH), in assessing research priorities, to publish data on certain clinical research study populations. The NIH must foster collaboration among clinical research projects that use human subjects and that collect similar data to increase the number and diversity of subjects. The strategic plans of the national research institutes must ensure that future activities take into account women and minorities and are focused on reducing health disparities. Advisory council reports must include certain demographic data for clinical research subjects. The results of NIH-funded clinical trials that include women and minorities must be submitted to NIH's clinical trial data bank. The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities may foster partnerships among the national research institutes and encourage the funding of collaborative research projects to achieve NIH goals related to minority health and health disparities. The NIH must develop policies for NIH-funded basic research projects to assess how differences between male and female cells, tissues, or animals may be examined and analyzed.

Investing in Testing Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Investing in Testing Act of 2016 This bill requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to study the health implications of contamination of drinking water by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). (PFASs can accumulate in the body and are commonly found at low levels in food, water, and the environment.)

Recognizing the impact of tribology on the United States economy and competitiveness in providing solutions to critical technical problems in manufacturing, energy production and use, transportation vehicles and infrastructure, greenhouse gas emissions, defense and homeland security, health care, mining safety and reliability, and space exploration, among others, and recognizing the need for increased research and development investments in tribology and related fields.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Recognizes the impact of tribology (a study that deals with the design, friction, wear, and lubrication of interacting surfaces in relative motion) on the United States economy and competitiveness in providing solutions to critical technical problems in various industries. Encourages federal agencies to develop and implement programs related to tribology. Encourages the formation of public-private partnerships to advance fundamental research and accelerate the development of tribology-related products. Encourages the National Academy of Engineering to conduct a survey on the status of tribology research in academia and government laboratories and to recommend a course of action to accelerate innovations in tribology.

Expressing support for designation of September 2016 as "Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Supports the designation of Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month. (Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of the lungs that causes breathing problems.) Expresses continued support for more robust and accelerated research to develop more effective treatments for pulmonary fibrosis and to ultimately find a cure for the disease. Recognizes the courage and contributions of individuals with pulmonary fibrosis who participate in clinical trials. Commends the dedication of those working to improve the quality of life of individuals with pulmonary fibrosis and the families of those individuals.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Red Ribbon Week during the period of October 23 through October 31, 2016.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Red Ribbon Week. Encourages: (1) children, teens, and other individuals to choose to live drug-free lives, and (2) people to promote drug-free communities and to participate in drug prevention activities.

Honoring Sisters Network Inc.® for its work to raise awareness about the tragic impact of breast cancer in the African-American community.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Honors Sisters Network Inc. for raising awareness about the impact of breast cancer in the African-American community. (African Americans are more likely to die from breast cancer than members of other racial groups.)

Expressing support for the designation of the month of September 2016 as "Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month" in order to educate communities across the United States about sickle cell disease and the need for research, early detection methods, effective treatments, and preventative care programs with respect to sickle cell disease.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month. (Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder than can lead to pain, anemia, infections, and stroke.) Encourages people to hold events and activities to raise awareness of preventive care programs, treatments, and other patient services for those suffering from sickle cell disease.

Expressing support for a stable and sustainable funding source for the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) Program.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) Program should be protected and sustained. (The THCGME Program awards grants to health centers for primary care residency programs.)

Reducing Medicare Costs through Innovation Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Reducing Medicare Costs through Innovation Act This bill establishes a Medicare commercialization grant program, through which the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) shall award grants to eligible small businesses for certain activities related to developing novel eligible medical products and receiving Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for such products. CMS shall solicit grant applications annually, with a focus on the diseases or conditions that are the top ten cost drivers in the Medicare program. To carry out the grant program, CMS shall use amounts allocated under the Small Business Act for the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. The bill also establishes a pilot program (similar to a pilot program that was previously established in regulation) for parallel review of medical products with the purpose of reducing, with respect to certain medical products developed by Medicare commercialization grant recipients, the timeline for FDA approval and Medicare national coverage determinations. A Medicare commercialization grant applicant may choose to apply for FDA approval of novel medical products either through a traditional process or through the pilot program.

Pharmaceutical SAVE Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Pharmaceutical Supply and Value Enhancement Act or the Pharmaceutical SAVE Act This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to authorize importation of life-saving drugs for which there is, or is likely to be, a shortage. For a drug to be imported, the drug's manufacturer must intend to seek FDA approval of the drug as a generic drug. The FDA may deny importation of a drug for reasons related to safety or effectiveness. Drugs in noncompetitive markets must be treated as being in a shortage for purposes of this bill and for purposes of expedited inspections and review. A drug is in a noncompetitive market if: (1) there are fewer than five holders of approved applications for commercially available brand name or generic versions of the drug, (2) the drug has been approved for at least 10 years, and (3) patents on the active ingredient of the drug have expired.

A bill to improve medication adherence.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Department of Health and Human Services to research and report on medication adherence with respect to federal health care programs. ("Medication adherence" refers to the extent to which patients take their medications as prescribed.) In addition, the bill amends titles XI (General Provisions) and XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to: upon request by a prescription drug plan (PDP) sponsor, provide the plan with Medicare enrollee claims data to provide context for an enrollee's medication regimen; in calculating the minimum medical loss ratio with respect to PDPs, include medication management as an activity that improves health care quality; and through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, test a model for enhanced medication therapy management for PDPs under Medicare Advantage.

Craig Thomas Rural Hospital and Provider Equity Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Craig Thomas Rural Hospital and Provider Equity Act of 2016 This bill amends the Public Health Service Act and title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: establish, extend, reinstate, or modify various Medicare payment adjustments for rural hospitals; establish a capital infrastructure revolving loan program for rural medical facilities; allow authorized physician assistants to order hospice care under Medicare; establish Medicare coverage for specified mental health counselor services and marriage and family therapist services; create a grant program for state offices of rural health; and modify other provisions related to rural medical facilities. 

Violence Against Women Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Violence Against Women Veterans Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a program to assist veterans who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault in accessing benefits from the VA, including by coordinating access to medical treatment centers, housing assistance, and other benefits. The VA shall carry out the program in partnership with specified health care or other service providers that serve domestic violence or sexual assault victims. The VA may: (1) conduct training for community-based domestic violence or sexual assault service providers on identifying veterans who have been victims, coordinating with local VA service providers, and connecting veterans with appropriate VA housing, mental health, medical, and other financial assistance or benefits; and (2) provide assistance to service providers to ensure veterans access to domestic violence and sexual assault emergency services. The VA may establish local coordinators to provide outreach under such program and ensure that each coordinator is knowledgeable about: the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault, including safety concerns, legal protections, and the need for confidential services; veteran eligibility for VA services and benefits relevant to recovery from domestic violence and sexual assault; and local community resources addressing domestic violence and sexual assault. Each coordinator shall assist domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers in providing services to veterans. The VA shall: (1) establish a national task force to develop a comprehensive national program to address domestic violence and sexual assault among veterans, and (2) conduct a national baseline study to examine the scope of the problem of domestic violence and sexual assault among veterans and spouses of veterans.