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Bill· HRH.R. 4590 (96th)referred

A bill to remove the coinsurance amount which a patient has to pay under part A of the medicare program for inpatient hospital services after such services have been furnished to such patient for 60 days during a spell of illness.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to delete the requirement that a Medicare recipient must pay a coinsurance amount for inpatient hospital services after receiving such services for more than 60 days during a spell of illness.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 328 (96th)reported

A resolution providing for the consideration of H.R. 1650, a bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a clearinghouse for information respecting digestive diseases, to authorize grants to strengthen educational programs in digestive diseases in medical schools, and to establish the National Digestive Diseases Advisory Board.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1979

Sets forth the rule for the consideration of H.R. 1650 (Digestive diseases).

Bill· SS. 1387 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to update the life safety requirements applicable to nursing homes under such title and under title XIX of such Act.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require a skilled nursing facility to meet such provisions applicable to nursing homes, of the edition or editions of the Life Safety Code of the National Fire Protection Association, as are specified in regulations by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Amends part A (General Provisions) of title XI of the Act to direct the Secretary to utilize those provisions specified to establish life safety standards for any health care facility for which he or she has the responsibility of establishing safety standards.

Law· HRH.R. 4556 (96th)open

A bill to amend section 1521 of the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to extend conditional designations of State health planning and development agencies.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1979

Amends title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Health Planning and Development) to authorize the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to extend the conditional designation of a State health planning and development agency beyond the current 36-month limit upon a finding that such an agency is making a good faith effort to perform its functions.

Bill· HRH.R. 4463 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act with respect to conditions of participation of home health agencies under the medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to define terms and establish personnel qualifications pertaining to home health agencies. Sets forth the following conditions of participation by a home health agency in the Medicare program: (1) that the agency and its staff comply with all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations; (2) that organization, services provided, administrative control, and lines of authority for the delegation of responsibility down to the patient care level be clearly set forth in writing and readily identifiable; (3) that a group of professional advisory committee representatives of the service provided by the agency establish, annually review, and make recommendations to the agency's governing board concerning the agency's policies governing the scope of services offered, admission and discharge policies, medical supervision and plans of treatment, emergency care, clinical records, personnel qualifications, and program evaluation; (4) that the agency have written policies requiring an overall evaluation of the agency's total program annually by the group of professional personnel, home health agency staff, and consumers, or by professional people outside the agency working in conjunction with consumers; (5) that patients be accepted for treatment on the basis of a reasonable expectation that the patients' medical, nursing, and social needs can be met adequately by the agency in the patients' place of residence; (6) that care follow a written plan of treatment established and periodically reviewed by a physician; (7) that the agency provide, skilled nursing services, by or under the supervision of a registered nurse and in accordance with the plan of treatment; (8) that any therapy services offered by an agency be given by a qualified therapist or therapist assistant under the supervision of a qualified therapist in accordance with the plan of treatment; (9) that medical social services, when provided, must be given by a qualified social worker or social worker assistant under the supervision of a qualified social worker and in accordance with the plan of treatment; (10) that home health aides be selected pursuant to standards set forth in this Act, and be closely supervised to assure their competence; and (11) that a clinical record written by the individuals who provide services and containing pertinent and current findings in accordance with accepted professional standards be maintained for every patient.

Bill· HRH.R. 4470 (96th)referred

A bill to provide for demonstration projects for training and employment of recipients of benefits, under programs of aid to families with dependent children, as homemakers and home health aides.

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1979

Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to enter into agreements with 12 States for the purpose of conducting demonstration projects for the training and employment as homemakers or home health aides of individuals who have been certified by the appropriate State or local government agency as being eligible for financial assistance under a State plan of Aid to Families with Dependent Children approved under title IV of the Social Security Act. Directs the Secretary to submit annual reports to the Congress evaluating the demonstration projects.

Law· HRH.R. 4453 (96th)open

A bill to amend the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend to June 30, 1981, the ban on actions by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare respecting saccharin.

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1979

Amends the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend until June 30, 1981, the period during which the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare may not take specified actions to restrict the continued use of saccharin or of any food, drug, or cosmetic containing saccharin.

Bill· HRH.R. 4441 (96th)referred

Alcoholic Beverage Labeling Act Amendment

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1979

Alcoholic Beverage Labeling Act Amendment - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require any beverage offered for sale and consisting of more than 24 percent of alcohol by volume to bear conspicuously on its label and advertising the following statement: "Caution: Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages May Be Hazardous to Your Health."

Bill· HRH.R. 4444 (96th)referred

Health Maintenance Organizations Medicare Reimbursement Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1979

Health Maintenance Organizations Medicare Reimbursement Amendments of 1979 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise provisions relating to payments to and contractual arrangements with health maintenance organizations (HMO) on behalf of individuals eligible for Medicare. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to annually determine a per capita rate of payment for each class of individuals entitled to benefits under such title who are enrolled pursuant to this Act with a HMO. Directs the Secretary to define classes of members based on such factors as age, sex, institutional status, disability status and place of residence. Provides a rate for each class equal to 95 percent of the adjusted average per capita cost for that class. Defines the term "adjusted average per capita cost" to mean the average per capita amount that the Secretary estimates would be payable for services furnished under the Medicare program, if the services were to be furnished by other than an HMO. Provides that every individual entitled to benefits under parts A (Hospital Insurance) and B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII or part B only shall be eligible to enroll with an HMO with which the Secretary has contracted to provide services. Sets limits on an HMO's premium rate and the actuarial value of its other charges for individuals enrolled under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to contract with any HMO that can provide the benefits required by this Act.

Bill· SS. 1295 (96th)referred

Senior Citizens Health Insurance Reform Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1979

Senior Citizens Health Insurance Reform Act of 1979 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a procedure whereby health insurance policies offered by private insurers to supplement the Medicare program may be certified by the Secretary as meeting minimum standards with respect to adequacy of coverage, reasonableness of premium charge, and general economic benefit to the insured. Sets forth criminal penalties pertaining to the misrepresentation of such policies.

Bill· HRH.R. 4377 (96th)referred

Comprehensive Health Care Improvement Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1979

Comprehensive Health Care Improvement Act of 1979 - Title I: Qualified Health Insurance Plans - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish standards for qualified health insurance plans and procedures for the review and certification of such plans. Certifies a plan as an "A" qualified plan if it meets any applicable State requirements with respect to accident and health insurance plans or nonprofit health service plans and meets or exceeds the following minimum standards: (1) benefits equal to at least 80 percent of the covered expenses in excess of an annual deductible not exceeding $150 per person; (2) a $3,000 annual limit on total out-of-pocket expenses for covered services; (3) a maximum lifetime benefit of at least $250,000; and (4) the $3,000 and $250,000 limits are not subject to change by use of an actuarially equivalent benefit. Includes as "covered services": (1) hospital and physician services; (2) prescription drugs; (3) nursing home care; (4) home care services; (5) use of radium or other radioactive materials; (6) oxygen and anesthetics; (7) prosthesis, other than dental; (8) medical equipment (excluding eyeglasses and hearing aids); (9) x-rays; (10) certain oral surgery; (11) physical therapy; (12) ambulance service; (13) well baby care; (14) routine physicals; (15) multiphasic screening and other diagnostic testing; (16) a second opinion on surgical procedures costing more than $500; and (17) chiropractic services. Enumerates services and items not covered, such as injuries subject to workers' compensation laws and cosmetic surgery. Deems a health maintenance organization (HMO) providing services pursuant to title XIII of the Public Health Service Act to be providing an "A" qualified plan. Certifies as a "B" plan a plan which meets the minimum standards of an "A" plan except that the annual deductible does not exceed $500 per person. Certifies as a "C" plan a plan which meets the minimum standards of an "A" plan except that the annual deductible does not exceed $1,000 per person. Certifies a plan which provides benefits to persons over 65 as a qualified Medicare supplement plan if it: (1) provides complementary or supplemental benefits to the benefits provided under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act; (2) provides coverage of 50 percent of the deductibles and copayments required under title XVIII, 80 percent of the charges for services covered under this Act and is not subject to a maximum lifetime benefit of less than $100,000; and (3) limits to not more than $1,000 the total annual out-of-pocket expenses for services covered under this Act. Directs the Secretary to provide for the review and certification, by the Commissioner of each State, of qualified plans offered in the State, upon assurance that such review and certification will comply with this Act. Prohibits any entity from describing for purposes of sale a plan of health coverage as: (1) a qualified plan unless such plan is qualified under this Act; or (2) a particular type of qualified plan unless such plan meets the standards for such type under this Act. Makes any violations of this prohibition an unfair practice under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Requires an employer having an average of not less than ten employees annually to make available a plan of health coverage which: (1) has been certified as an "A" or "B" or supplemental health benefits plan; (2) is a qualified convertible plan; and (3) provides for the option of coverage of the employee's spouse and children. Defines the term "qualified convertible plan" to mean a plan of health coverage which permits each individual in the plan to convert to an individual coverage qualified plan and which provides that in the case of the death of the individual in whose name the contract was issued every other individual covered may elect to continue their coverage. Subjects any employer who knowingly fails to comply with such requirements to a civil penalty. Allows an employee to enjoin such violation in State or Federal court. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require a State Medicaid plan to provide for the establishment and operation of a comprehensive health association in the State and a comprehensive health insurance plan. Defines the term "comprehensive health insurance plan" to mean qualified policies of insurance and contracts of HMO coverage offered in the State. Directs each State commissioner of insurance to supervise the creation of the comprehensive health association in the State and to formulate policies to advance the purposes of this title. Requires each State to establish a comprehensive health association with membership consisting of all insurers, self-insurers, fraternal beneficiary associations, and HMOs licensed in the State. Requires such entities to maintain their membership as a condition of doing accident and health insurance, self-insurance, or HMO business in the State. Allows an association to provide for the reinsuring of risks incurred as a result of issuing qualified plans by members. Requires any member electing to reinsure risks of specified categories of coverage to: (1) enter into a contract with the association, which may provide for the pooling of members' risks reinsured through the association; and (2) reinsure the risk of the coverage of every life covered under every health policy issued in that category. Requires each association through its comprehensive health insurance plan to offer: (1) policies which provide the benefits of an "A", "B", and "C" qualified plans and of a qualified Medicare supplement plan; and (2) HMO contracts in those areas of the State where a HMO has agreed to make the coverage available and has been selected as a writing carrier. Specifies formulas for setting the premiums of such plans for the first 18 months of operation of each comprehensive health insurance plan. Requires each association to design premium schedules thereafter which are self-supporting and based on generally accepted actuarial principles. Directs each writing carrier to submit to the association and commissioner in the State a monthly report on the operation of the State comprehensive health insurance plan. Requires such plan to be open for enrollment by residents of the State, who may enroll by submitting a certificate of eligibility containing specified information to the writing carrier. Directs each association in a State to disseminate appropriate information to residents regarding the existence of the comprehensive health insurance plan and the means of enrollment. Requires each writing carrier to pay an agent's referral fee, in an amount to be determined by the association, to each insurance agent who refers an applicant to the plan (if the application is accepted), but limits the amount paid for such purposes to 12.5 percent of the premiums paid to the carrier. Title II: Program of Assistance to States for Assisting Low-Income Individuals to Purchase Comprehensive Health Insurance - Comprehensive Health Insurance Assistance Act of 1979 - Amends the Social Security Act by adding a new title XXI: Grants to States for Assistance to Low-Income Individuals in the Purchase of Comprehensive Health Insurance. Provides grants to States for assisting low-income individuals in the purchase of comprehensive health insurance. Sets forth requirements for a State plan to receive such assistance, including that a plan make partial or full assistance available to low-income individuals, as determined by the State, for purchasing "A" or "B" qualified plans or qualified Medicare supplement plans. Directs the Secretary to pay to a State which has a plan approved under this title an amount equal to 50 percent of the sums expended each quarter which are attributable to such assistance or administrative expenses, but prohibits such amount from exceeding the product of $1.25 and the population. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to authorize the Secretary to approve a State plan which allows a portion of the income and resources of a married couple, one spouse of which is in a skilled nursing or intermediate care facility, to be disregarded for the purpose of determining such couple's income. Title III: Program of Assistance to States for Assisting Individuals Who Incur Catastrophic Expenses for Health Care - Catastrophic Health Care Expenses Assistance Act of 1979 - Amends the Social Security Act by adding a new title XXII: Grants to States for Assistance to Individuals Incurring Catastrophic Expenses for Health Care. Provides grants to States for furnishing medical assistance for catastrophic illness. Sets forth requirements for a State plan to receive such assistance, including that a plan provide for paying: (1) at least 90 percent of all qualified expenses of an eligible individual in excess of the greater of (A) the sum of (i) 40 percent of his or her income under $15,000, (ii) 50 percent of income between $15,000 and $25,000, and (iii) 60 percent of income over $25,000, of (B) $2,500 (or a lower amount as the State may establish), for the 12-consecutive-month period in which the applicant becomes an eligible person; and (2) 100 percent of all qualified nursing home expenses of an eligible individual in excess of 20 percent (or a lower percentage as the State may establish) of his or her household income. Directs the Secretary to pay to a State which has a plan approved under this title an amount equal to 50 percent of the sums expended each quarter which are attributable to such assistance or administrative expenses, but prohibits such amount from exceeding the product of $.25 and the population. Prohibits payment under this title with respect to specified expenses.

Bill· SS. 1289 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to eliminate discrimination with regard to coverage for treatment of mental illness under medicare and to include community mental health centers among the entities which may be qualified providers of service for medicare purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) eliminate the 190 day lifetime limit for in-patient psychiatric care; and (2) limit the amount which a provider of services may charge a Medicare patient for mental health care services to 20 percent of the amount customarily charged for such services. Provides coverage under the Medicare program for services furnished in qualified community mental health centers. Prohibits reimbursement under the Medicare program for psychoanalysis.

Bill· HRH.R. 4362 (96th)referred

Maternal and Childhood Nutritional Disorders Prevention and Information Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1979

Maternal and Childhood Nutritional Disorders Prevention and Information Act of 1979 - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to develop, through existing programs under the Social Security Act and the Public Health Security Act: (1) scientific diagnostic procedures to assess human nutritional status and to detect childhood metabolic hereditary disorders; (2) regional centers for the detection of metabolic hereditary disorders in newborn infants; and (3) programs to (A) establish referral procedures for treatment of children and pregnant women vulnerable to nutritional disorders and (B) inform pregnant women of proper nutrition and the adverse effect of alcohol consumption. Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on such activities. Directs the Secretaries of Health, Education, and Welfare and Agriculture to: (1) develop coordinating mechanisms with respect to human nutrition research activities; (2) develop research programs to determine human nutrition requirements for optimal fetal, perinatal, and childhood development; (3) develop certain nutrition and dietary guidelines and inform nutrition recommendations; and (4) measure the effect of current programs providing supplements to the diet of infants and pregnant women. Directs such Secretaries to report annually to Congress on such activities. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission and other advertising entities, to contract to develop radio and television broadcasts with respect to nutrition information.

Bill· HRH.R. 4358 (96th)referred

A bill to amend section 431 of the Public Health Service Act to provide funds to the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke for research in the area of regeneration of the spinal cord.

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1979

Amends title IV of the Public Health Service Act (National Research Institutes) to stipulate that the institute currently authorized to conduct research on neurological diseases shall be named the "National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke." Requires at least $16,000,000 of the sums appropriated for such Institute to be obligated for research in the area of regeneration of the spinal cord.

Bill· HRH.R. 4347 (96th)referred

Diabetes Research and Training Amendments and National Diabetes Advisory Board Extension Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1979

Diabetes Research and Training Amendments and National Diabetes Advisory Board Extension Act of 1979 - Amends title IV of the Public Health Service Act (National Research Institutes) to redesignate the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism, and Digestive Diseases and the Advisory Council to such Institute as the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism, Diabetes, and Digestive Diseases and the National Arthritis, Metabolism, Diabetes, and Digestive Diseases Advisory Council. Establishes within the Advisory Council separate subcommittees on diabetes, arthritis, digestive diseases, and kidney diseases. Directs these subcommittees to: (1) review applications made to the Director of the Institute for research projects relating to such diseases and make recommendations to the Advisory Council; and (2) review and evaluate programs directed at such diseases. Establishes within the Institute the position of Associate Director for Diabetes. Sets forth the duties of the Associate Director, including: (1) having primary responsibility for all diabetes-mellitus-related activities supported or conducted by the National Institutes of Health; (2) providing information to public and private agencies with respect to such activities; and (3) reporting and making recommendations to the Director of the National Institutes of Health with respect to other enumerated functions. Extends the authorization of appropriations for diabetes research and training centers in the following amounts: $14,000,000 for fiscal year 1981, $17,000,000 for fiscal year 1982, and $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1983 through 1985. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to provide from such amounts up to ten training stipends through each center in any fiscal year. Eliminates as an ex officio member of the National Diabetes Advisory Board the Secretary of Defense or his designee; adds as such a member the Director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development or his designee. Revises the terms of appointed members of the Board. Directs the Board to amend the Diabetes Plan (formulated by the National Commission on Diabetes under the National Diabetes Mellitus Research and Education Act) as is necessary to insure its continuing relevance. Extends the current level of authorizations for the purposes of the Board ($300,000 per fiscal year) through fiscal year 1985. Extends the expiration date of the Board from September 30, 1980, to September 30, 1985.

Bill· SS. 1267 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to update the life safety requirements applicable to nursing homes under such title and under title XIX of such Act.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require a skilled nursing facility to meet such provisions applicable to nursing homes, of the edition or editions of the Life Safety Code of the National Fire Protection Association, as are specified in regulations by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Directs the Secretary to utilize those provisions specified to establish life safety standards for any health care facility for which he or she has the responsibility of establishing safety standards.

Bill· HRH.R. 4267 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act for the purpose of authorizing the President to enter into agreements establishing reciprocal arrangements between the medicare program and similar programs of any foreign country.

United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security to authorize the President to enter into agreements establishing reciprocal arrangements between the health insurance program established by such title and the program of any foreign country under which similar services are provided directly to entitled individuals or under which insurance is provided to meet all or part of the expenses of entitled individuals for health services. Requires that any such agreement specify: (1) the nature and extent of payment to be made to or on behalf of individuals entitled to benefits; (2) limitations on the nature and duration of health services and on entitlement of individuals to benefits on a reciprocal basis under an agreement in the United States and in the foreign country; and (3) the methods by which the cost of providing health services on a reciprocal basis shall be shared by the United States and the foreign country. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make rules and regulations and establish procedures which are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer any agreement which has been entered into in accordance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into interim arrangements with any hospital in a foreign country which is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals, or such other hospitals as the Secretary finds meet specified health and safety standards.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 348 (96th)referred

A joint resolution to provide that it be the sense of Congress that a White House Conference on Long-Term Care be called by the President of the United States in 1979, to be planned and conducted by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare.

United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1979

Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on Long-Term Care to develop recommendations for action in establishing a national policy with respect to the needs of disabled Americans, particularly the aged. Directs the Conference to consider methods to: (1) make long-term health care available to those who need it; (2) provide alternatives to nursing home placement; (3) improve the quality of care offered in long-term care facilities; (4) provide for appropriate training of personnel; and (5) finance the necessary benefits structure to make long-term care a right of all Americans. Requires that the Conference submit a final report to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the Conference is called. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish an Advisory Committee to the Conference composed of not more than 28 professionals and public members.

Bill· HRH.R. 4258 (96th)referred

Drug Regulation Reform Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 30 May 1979

Drug Regulation Reform Act of 1979 - Title I: Drug Regulation Reform - States the findings of Congress. Prohibits the manufacture, importation, export, or distribution of a drug entity or a drug product without the prior issuance by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare of a monograph containing a description of such drug and requirements and guidelines for the contents of information labeling for the forms of drug products eligible for licensing under such monograph. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to require, in a monograph, postmarketing surveillance of any drug, old or new, for a period of up to five years. Limits the issuance of such monographs to drugs determined safe and effective. Defines "safe" as meaning the health benefits of the drug entity or product clearly outweigh the risks it presents, taking into account pertinent standards and requirements. Defines "effective" to mean that a drug entity when incorporated into a drug product used in accordance with the use conditions set forth on the drug label, will have the effect represented. Provides for amendment, suspension, or revocation of a monograph under specified conditions. Authorizes the provisional issuance of a monograph (not to exceed five years) for any drug entity intended to be used in treatment of a life-threatening or severely debilitating disease when: (1) no other effective methods of treatment exist; or (2) such drug entity offers a major advantage to patients compared to the benefits of alternative methods; and (3) delaying issuance would present significantly greater risks to patients affected by such disease. Requires significant evidence of effectiveness and safety for such provisional issuance. Establishes a monograph-petition review procedure requiring a public hearing on the issuance, amendment, or revocation of any monograph, followed by a review of the evidence and issues by a drug science advisory committee, whose recommendations shall be forwarded to the Secretary for his final decision. Authorizes judicial review of a final order of the Secretary by a United States Court of Appeals. Requires, with specified exceptions, the registration of domestic and foreign establishments engaged in the manufacture, importation, export, or distribution of any drug entity or drug product. Prohibits for five years after the issuance date of a monograph the licensure of any drug product without: (1) written authorization from the monograph petitioner; or (2) data and information independent of the monograph which would support a determination that the monograph could be issued. Permits the licensure of a drug product, after the expiration of such five-year period, without the making of necessary animal and clinical studies already made to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the drug product under the original monograph. Requires registration of any drug to be used in a drug investigation, and revocation of registration if the human participants in the investigation are subject to unreasonable and significant risk of illness or injury. Specifies standards and requirements for such investigations. Requires the informed consent of participants in such investigations. Requires the informed consent of participants in such investigations unless the immediate use of the drug product is, in the investigator's opinion, needed to preserve the participant's life and time is not sufficient to obtain either consent from either the participant or his legal representatives. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) issue written guidelines regarding protocols and methods for conducting investigations; and (2) to review and advise, upon request, regarding specified aspects of a drug investigation. Requires unlicensed drug products and drug entities not subject to monographs to obtain permits for export to foreign countries. Specifies requirements for such exports. Exempts homeopathic drug entities and products from monograph, licensure, and investigational use requirements if manufactured or imported in accordance with import/export registration requirements of this Act. Requires: (1) patient information labeling in layperson's language of the risks, benefits, side effects and so forth of any drug entity or product; and (2) practitioner information labeling that identifies the licensee, registrant, permittee and manufacturer of such drug. Directs the Secretary to prepare and publish a compendium of all prescription drugs eligible for licensing under issued monographs. Prohibits from the promotional labeling of any prescription drug product indications for use, comparisons with other drug products, or dosage recommendations not contained in the information labeling of such product. Prohibits drug product licensees and their agents from: (1) distributing sample prescription drug products without charge; and (2) providing services or transferring items to specified medical personnel or their families, if the value of the service or item is at least $5.00, and no charge is made. Requires disclosure of the sponsorship by a drug product licensee or distributor of medical and scientific educational materials (other than labeling). Forbids the disclosure by pharmacists and their agents of prescriptions or information contained in prescriptions to anybody but the patient, the prescribing practitioners, or other specified persons. Prohibits licensees and their agents from obtaining or attempting to obtain such information. Prescribes civil, criminal, and administrative penalties, and subjects drug entities and products to seizure, for violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to compel the attendance and testimony of witnesses in any matter relating to implementation or enforcement of this Title. Authorizes the Secretary to inspect drug manufacturing and distributing establishments to determine compliance with this Title. Title II: National Center for Clinical Pharmacology; Evaluation of the Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish, in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, the National Center for Clinical Pharmacology to conduct and support, by grants: (1) research in clinical pharmacology and clinical pharmacy; and (2) an ongoing review and analysis of the use of drug products in the United States. Directs the Secretary to contract for an independent evaluation of Title I and its effect on: (1) protection of the public against adverse reactions from and misuse of drug products; (2) innovation in drug research; (3) the economics of the pharmaceutical industry; (4) the cost of drug products; (5) prescribing practices; and (6) the time required for the issuance of monographs. Requires a report on such evaluation to the appropriate Committees of Congress within seven years of enactment.

Bill· SS. 1204 (96th)reported

Child Health Assessment Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1979

Child Health Assurance Act of 1979 - Title I: Child Health Assurance Program; Medicaid Eligibility of Poor Children - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require a State's Medicaid program to provide medical assistance to any individual under the age of 18 whose resources do not exceed specified levels. Requires a State plan for medical assistance under title XIX to provide for a child health assurance program (CHAP). Requires each such program to: (1) assure the availability to each eligible child of child health assessments which may only be performed by a health care provider who has entered into a specified written agreement with a State; (2) provide, with respect to certain medical services, for the continuing care of eligible children; (3) assure that all eligible children are informed of the need for and availability of dental services, and are referred to providers of such care and services on a timely and periodic basis; and (4) provide for "outreach" to children eligible for assessments. Requires a State's Medicaid program to provide the following services for individuals under the age of 18: (1) inpatient hospital services; (2) outpatient hospital services; (3) rural health clinic services; (4) certain laboratory and X-ray services; (5) child health assessment services and the continuing care services of a CHAP; (6) immunizations; (7) prescribed drugs and insulin; (8) diagnosis and treatment of vision and hearing problems, including eyeglasses and hearing aids; (9) certain ambulatory mental health services; (10) routine dental care services; and (11) physicians' services furnished by a physician. Exempts the individuals eligible for such services from any enrollment fee, premium, deductible, cost sharing, or similar charges with respect to any such services. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate regulations establishing a formula for measuring the effectiveness of a State's CHAP. Directs the Secretary to publish a formula to determine a State's Federal medical assistance percentage for an ambulatory care and services for children based on the effectiveness of its program. Directs the Secretary to evaluate at least biannually the effectiveness of each State's program based on specified standards. Requires States under part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act to inform all families receiving AFDC benefits of the availability of child health assurance services under title XIX. Title II: Medicaid Eligibility of Pregnant Women - Requires a State plan for medical assistance under title XIX to make medical assistance available for care and services provided during pregnancy aid and for 60 days following the termination of pregnancy to women whose resources do not exceed specified levels. Title III: Effective Dates; Regulations - Sets forth the effective date of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4172 (96th)referred

A bill to amend the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend for 18 months the current ban on actions by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare respecting saccharin.

United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1979

Amends the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend from 18 to 36 months the period during which the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare may not take specified actions to restrict the continued use of saccharin or of any food, drug, or cosmetic containing saccharin.

Bill· HRH.R. 4168 (96th)referred

Comprehensive Medicare Reform Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1979

Comprehensive Medicare Reform Act of 1979 - Title I: Amendments to Part A (Hospital and Inpatient Services) - Amends part A (Hospital Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to remove restrictions on: (1) inpatient hospital services; and (2) home health services. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to prescribe regulations which prohibit a physician who has a significant financial interest in a home health agency from certifying that an individual requires home health care services. Directs the Secretary to designate regional agencies or organizations, which have an agreement with the Secretary, to perform functions under such agreement with respect to home health agencies. Requires a home health agency to meet such additional requirements as the Secretary finds necessary. Eliminates the inpatient hospital deductible and coinsurance under part A, except for the deductible for whole blood. Eliminates the coinsurance for post- hospital extended care to Christian Science Skilled Nursing Facilities. Provides payment for 100 percent of a hospital's reasonable charges for emergency services. Includes among the services provided under part A: (1) outpatient services by community mental health centers for up to ten outpatient visits per year; and (2) partial hospitalization services by such centers for up to 60 visits per year. Title II: Amendments to part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) - Removes restrictions under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance for the Aged and Disabled) of title XVIII for: (1) home health services; (2) preventive health services; (3) routine physical checkups; (4) eye exams and eyeglasses; (5) hearing exams and hearing aids; (6) immunizations; (7) orthopedic shoes; (8) certain dental services and items, excluding orthodontic services other than a handicapping molocclusion; (9) treatment of certain foot conditions; and (10) drugs and biologicals. Directs the Secretary to: (1) issue a product price list to specify the reasonable cost of drugs and biologicals; and (2) establish schedules of dispensing fees designed to afford to a pharmacy a reasonable reimbursement for the services provided in dispensing drugs and biologicals. Includes comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation services among the services provided under part B. Provides reimbursement for 100 percent of the costs of services under part B, excluding the deductible and certain limitations. Increases allowances for reasonable charges for services under part B. Title III: Funding - Appropriates to the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund such amounts as are determined by the Secretary to be necessary to make the payments required by this Act under part A. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums to the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund as the Secretary determines to be necessary to make payments for services under part B of title XVIII.

Bill· SS. 1185 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act for the purpose of including comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation services among the benefits of the medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1979

Authorizes reimbursement under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act for services furnished in comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation centers. Defines the term "comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation services" to mean the following items and services furnished to an outpatient of a comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility: (1) physician's services; (2) physical therapy; (3) occupational therapy; (4) speech pathology services; (5) respiratory therapy; (6) prosthetic and orthotic devices; (7) social and psychological services; (8) certain nursing care; (9) certain drugs and biologicals; (10) supplies, appliances, and equipment; and (11) certain other medically necessary items and services.

Bill· HRH.R. 4160 (96th)referred

A bill to amend the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend for 36 months the ban on actions by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare respecting saccharin but only when it is sold or distributed separately as a distinct product for use by the consumer as a sweetener.

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1979

Amends the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend for 36 months the ban on actions by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare respecting saccharin but only when it is sold or distributed separately as a distinct product for use by the consumer as a sweetener.

Bill· HRH.R. 4156 (96th)referred

Mental Health Systems Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1979

Mental Health Systems Act - Sets forth the findings and purposes of this Act. Title I: Meeting the Needs of the Chronically Mentally Ill - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to any State Agency (designated under the State plan pursuant to title VI of this Act): (1) for specified projects, including the planning and coordination of mental health and support services, identifying State-level barriers to the availability of such services to the chronically mentally ill, and improving the competency of mental health service personnel; and (2) for payments to any Core Service Agency (a public or nonprofit private entity designated by the State Agency to develop and promote mental health and support services to priority population groups) for such projects and additional activities, including educational and information services. Title II: Prevention of Mental Illness - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to any State Agency for specified projects, including the planning and coordination of mental illness prevention activities, information services and demonstration projects related to mental illness prevention, and in-service and other training of health personnel in mental illness prevention measures. Title III: State Mental Health Systems Improvement - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to any State Agency to improve the administration of mental health programs. Title IV: Community Mental Health Services - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to public or nonprofit private entities: (1) to prepare for providing mental health services (but only one grant not to exceed $75,000 may be made with respect to a mental health services area); (2) for projects providing mental health services to one or more priority population groups (with preference given to an entity serving an area which has no community mental health center); (3) for projects to develop comprehensive mental health services; (4) which are ambulatory health care centers or are affiliated with such centers and provide emergency, outpatient, and consultation and education services; (5) for the provision of mental health services which generally do not generate revenues; and (6) for projects to provide continued mental health services. Title V: Pilot Projects for State Administration of Grants - Authorizes the Secretary to enter into an agreement with any State Agency for a demonstration project under which such Agency will pay the Federal funds due to entities for activities authorized by title IV of this Act or for assistance to Core Service Agencies and will perform other agreed-upon functions. Title VI: Requirements for Participation; Authorizations - Requires a State to have in effect a mental health services plan which is consistent with the State health plan prepared in accordance with title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Health Planning and Development) in order for the State Agency or any entity in such State to be eligible for grants under this Act. Specifies the content of such plans. Directs the Secretary to prescribe quality standards for mental health services. Allows grants to be made under title IV of this Act to any Indian tribe or urban Indian organization for projects serving members of such tribe or organization. Amends title III of the Public Health Service Act (General Powers and Duties) to require individuals who receive a clinical traineeship in psychology, psychiatry, nursing, or social work with respect to mental health to serve, at the rate of one year for each year of the traineeship: (1) in a State mental institution; (2) for any entity eligible for a grant under title IV of this Act; (3) in a health manpower shortage area; or (4) in other service as determined by the Secretary. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Prohibits the appropriation of funds under the Community Mental Health Centers Act (other than for rape prevention and control) after September 30, 1979.

Law· SS. 1177 (96th)open

Mental Health Systems Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1979

Mental Health Systems Act - Sets forth the findings and purposes of this Act. Title I: Meeting the Needs of the Chronically Mentally Ill - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to any State Agency (designated under the State plan pursuant to title VI of this Act): (1) for specified projects, including the planning and coordination of mental health and support services, identifying State-level barriers to the availability of such services to the chronically mentally ill, and improving the competency of mental health service personnel; and (2) for payments to any Core Service Agency (a public or nonprofit private entity designated by the State Agency to develop and promote mental health and support services to priority population groups) for such projects and additional activities, including educational and information services. Title II: Prevention of Mental Illness - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to any State Agency for specified projects, including the planning and coordination of mental illness prevention activities, information services and demonstration projects related to mental illness prevention, and inservice and other training of health personnel in mental illness prevention measures. Title III: State Mental Health Systems Improvement - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to any State Agency to improve the administration of mental health programs. Title IV: Community Mental Health Services - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to public or nonprofit private entities: (1) to prepare for providing mental health services (but only one grant not to exceed $75,000 may be made with respect to a mental health services area); (2) for projects providing mental health services to one or more priority population groups (with preference given to an entity serving an area which has no community mental health center); (3) for projects to develop comprehensive mental health services; (4) which are ambulatory health care centers or are affiliated with such centers and provide emergency, outpatient, and consultation and education services; (5) for the provision of mental health services which generally do not generate revenues; and (6) for projects to provide continued mental health services. Title V: Pilot Projects for State Administration of Grants - Authorizes the Secretary to enter into an agreement with any State Agency for a demonstration project under which such Agency will pay the Federal funds due to entities for activities authorized by title IV of this Act or for assistance to Core Service Agencies and will perform other agreed-upon functions. Title VI: Requirements for Participation; Authorizations - Requires a State to have in effect a mental health services plan which is consistent with the State health plan prepared in accordance with title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Health Planning and Development) in order for the State Agency or any entity in such State to be eligible for grants under this Act. Specifies the content of such plans. Directs the Secretary to prescribe quality standards for mental health services. Allows grants to be made under title IV of this Act to any Indian tribe or urban Indian organization for projects serving members of such tribe or organization. Amends title III of the Public Health Service Act (General Powers and Duties) to require individuals who receive a clinical traineeship in psychology, psychiatry, nursing, or social work with respect to mental health to serve, at the rate of one year for each year of the traineeship: (1) in a State mental institution; (2) for any entity eligible for a grant under title IV of this Act; (3) in a health manpower shortage area; or (4) in other service as determined by the Secretary. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Prohibits the appropriation of funds under the Community Mental Health Centers Act (other than for rape prevention and control) after September 30, 1979.

Bill· SS. 1137 (96th)referred

A bill to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to request the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study concerning standardizing certain tests for determining potential carcinogenicity, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1979

Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to request the National Academy of Science to conduct a study regarding the desirability of developing a Federal policy for the determination of the potential carcinogenicity in man of chemicals tested primarily in nonhuman test systems through the standardization of certain tests.

Bill· SS. 1138 (96th)referred

Drug Regulation Improvement Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1979

Drug Regulation Improvement Act of 1979 -- Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow submission of a comprehensive summary of investigations in lieu of full reports in the application for approval of a new drug. Specifies the general contents of such a summary. Authorizes an unsuccessful applicant to request a review of a disapproved application by an advisory committee composed of representatives of consumer and health care provider interests and qualified scientific experts. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate regulations requiring any person who intends to conduct a drug research investigation to obtain a drug research registration before dispensing, or allowing to be dispensed, a drug as part of the investigation. Directs the Secretary to determine categories of investigations, and to authorize review of applications and issuance of registrations by institutions primarily engaged in health care research or delivery (excluding an establishment engaged in the manufacture or distribution of a drug for commercial purposes).

Bill· HRH.R. 4078 (96th)referred

National Commission on Alcoholism and Alcohol-Related Problems Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1979

National Commission on Alcoholism and Alcohol-Related Problems Act - Establishes a part-time National Commission on Alcoholism and Alcohol-Related Problems to study alcoholism and alcohol- related problems, including enumerated areas. Directs the Commission to report its findings to the President and Congress within two years of its initial organization.

Bill· SS. 1121 (96th)referred

A bill to amend the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act.

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1979

Amends the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend from 18 months to 54 months after the date of enactment the period during which the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare may not take specified actions to restrict the continued use of saccharin or of any food, drug, or cosmetic containing saccharin.

Bill· HRH.R. 4053 (96th)referred

Child Health Assurance Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1979

Child Health Assurance Act of 1979 - Title I: Child Health Assurance Program; Medicaid Eligibility of Poor Children - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require a State's Medicaid program to provide medical assistance to any individual under the age of 18 whose resources do not exceed specified levels. Requires a State plan for medical assistance under title XIX to provide for a child health assurance program (CHAP). Requires each such program to: (1) assure the availability to each eligible child of child health assessments which may only be performed by a health care provider who has entered into a specified written agreement with a State; (2) provide, with respect to certain medical services, for the continuing care of eligible children; (3) assure that all eligible children are informed of the need for and availability of dental services, and are referred to providers of such care and services on a timely and periodic basis; and (4) provide "outreach" to children eligible for assessments. Requires a State's Medicaid program to provide the following services for individuals under the age of 18: (1) inpatient hospital services; (2) outpatient hospital services; (3) rural health clinic services; (4) certain laboratory and X-ray services; (5) child health assessment services and the continuing care services of a CHAP; (6) immunizations; (7) prescribed drugs and insulin; (8) diagnosis and treatment of vision and hearing problems, including eyeglasses and hearing aids; (9) certain mental health services; (10) routine dental care services; and (11) physicians' services furnished by a physician. Exempts the individuals eligible for such services from any enrollment fee, premium, deductible, cost sharing, or similar charges with respect to any such services. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate regulations establishing a formula for measuring the effectiveness of a State's CHAP. Directs the Secretary to publish a formula to determine a State's Federal medical assistance percentage for ambulatory care and services for children based on the effectiveness of its program. Directs the Secretary to evaluate at least biannually the effectiveness of each State's program based on specified standards. Requires States under part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act to inform all families receiving AFDC benefits of the availability of child health assurance services under title XIX. Title II: Medicaid Eligibility of Pregnant Women - Requires a State plan for medical assistance under title XIX to make medical assistance available for care and services provided during pregnancy and for 60 days following the termination of pregnancy to women whose resources do not exceed specified levels. Title III: Effective Dates; Regulations - Sets forth the effective date of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4054 (96th)referred

Medicare Reform Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1979

Medicare Reform Act of 1979 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to remove the 100 visit limitation presently applicable to home health care services under such title. Eliminates prior hospitalization as a condition of eligibility for home health care services under part A (Hospital Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of such title. Eliminates confinement to home as a requirement for receiving home health care services under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of such title. Includes "periodic chore services" within those home health services for which payment may be made under the supplementary medical insurance program. Eliminates the requirements that the months be consecutive in the 24-month Medicare waiting period for railroad retirement disability beneficiaries or old-age, survivors, and disability insurance beneficiaries who are disabled to be eligible for Medicare hospital care benefits. Eliminates payment of the $60 deductible under the Medicare program. Allows reimbursement under the Medicare program for services furnished in qualified community mental health centers and comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation centers. Authorizes payment under the Medicare program for: (1) occupational therapy services; (2) the removal of corns; warts and calluses on the feet; (3) all services of a doctor of dentistry for which such doctor is legally authorized to perform; and (4) eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures; and examinations for the purpose of prescribing such articles.

Bill· HRH.R. 4015 (96th)passed

Veteran Senior Citizen Health Care Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1979

Veteran Senior Citizen Health Care Act of 1979 - States the purposes of this Act to be: (1) to provide for the increasing demand for geriatric and extended health care and medical services being placed on the Veterans' Administration (VA) hospital system; and (2) to make the VA hospital system foremost in the area of geriatric health care and the repository of gerontology medical knowledge. Directs that within the Office of the Chief Medical Director of the VA one Assistant Chief Medical Director shall be doctor of geriatrics, and shall be responsible for the VA's geriatric services. Directs the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to designate 15 VA hospitals as demonstration centers of geriatric research, education, and clinical operations. Stipulates that such centers shall operate until September 30, 1983. Directs the Administrator to provide that: (1) each hospital operating as a geriatric center on the date of enactment of this Act be designated as the location for a demonstration center; (2) the desirability of designating hospitals which are affiliated with an accredited medical school having an organized geriatrics program; and (3) such designated hospitals be geographically dispersed across the United States. Directs the Administrator to establish a Geriatrics and Extended Care Task Force within the VA's Special Medical Advisory Group. Stipulates that such Task Force shall assess: (1) the VA's capability to provide geriatric services on a sustained and growing basis to eligible veterans; and (2) the current and projected needs for geriatric and extended health services among eligible veterans. Requires such Task Force to submit a report to the Administrator and the Special Medical Advisory Group within 18 months after the effective date of this Act. Directs the Administrator to transmit such report (within 90 days of receipt), along with any comments, to the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees. Requires a final report to be submitted by such Task Force within four years after the effective date of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of: (1) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1980; (2) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1981; (3) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1982; and (4) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1983.

Bill· HRH.R. 3990 (96th)reported

Medicare Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1979

Medicare Amendments of 1979 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to home health care services to eliminate: (1) the 100 visit limitation presently applicable to such services; (2) prior hospitalization as a condition of eligibility for such services; and (3) the $60 deductible. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to prescribe regulations which prohibit a physician who has a significant financial relationship with a home health agency from certifying that the services of such agency are required for any individual, and from establishing and reviewing a plan for furnishing such services to such individuals. Requires home health aides to complete a training program approved by the Secretary. Repeals provisions of title XVIII which prohibit the classification, as a home health agency, of a private organization which is not a nonprofit organization unless licensed pursuant to State law. Eliminates the requirement of consecutive months in the 24-month Medicare waiting period for railroad retirement disability beneficiaries, or old-age, survivors and disability insurance beneficiaries who are disabled, to be eligible for Medicare hospital care benefits. Authorizes the President under title XVIII, to enter into agreements establishing reciprocal arrangements between the health insurance program established by such title and the program of any foreign country under which similar services are provided directly to entitled individuals or under which insurance is provided to meet all or part of the expenses of entitled individuals for health services. Requires that any such agreement specify: (1) the nature and extent of payment to be made to or on behalf of individuals entitle to benefits; (2) limitations on the nature and duration of health services and on entitlement of individuals to benefits on a reciprocal basis under an agreement in the United States and in the foreign country;(3) limitations on entitlement of individuals to benefits; and (4) the methods by which the cost of providing health services on a reciprocal basis shall be shared by the United States and the foreign country. Directs the Secretary to make rules and regulations and to establish procedures which are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer any agreement which has been entered into in accordance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into interim arrangements with any hospital in a foreign country which is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals, or such other hospitals as the Secretary finds meets specified health and safety standards. Provides Medicare coverage for: (1) all services performed by a dentist which would be covered if performed by a physician; and (2) inpatient hospital services furnished because of the severity of the dental procedure. Authorizes payments under the Medicare program for the cutting or removal of warts on the feet. Allows reimbursement under the Medicare program for services furnished in qualified community mental health centers and comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation centers. Restricts payment for optometrists' services under Medicare to services related to the treatment of aphakia. Directs the Secretary to make recommendations with respect to providing Medicare coverage for the treatment of cataracts and for other services which optometrists may perform. Directs the Secretary to develop and carry out demonstration projects to permit reimbursement under title XVIII for services provided by hospices offering comprehensive health service. Directs the Secretary to study methods for providing Medicare coverage for orthopedic shoes. Authorizes payment under the Medicare program for antigens prepared by a physician. Authorizes the Secretary to make payments of such benefits as are necessary to correct the effect of an unintentional or erroneous transfer of an individual from an approved hospital or skilled nursing facility. Includes rural health facility of 50 beds or less within the definition of the term "hospital, under title XVIII." Makes special provisions with respect to nursing services, health, fire, and safety requirements for such facilities. Recognizes podiatrists as physicians for purposes of physician certification and participation in utilization review, where consistent with State law and policies of the health care institutions involved. Allows a speech pathologist, as well as a physician, to establish the plan of treatment for speech pathology services. States that where services are provided for which payment may be made under the Medicare program to an individual who has died and the persons who provided the services do not agree that the reasonable charge is the full charge for the services, payment shall be made on the basis of an itemized bill. Repeals provisions of the Medicare program concerning the presumed coverage for extended care facilities and home health care in specified circumstances. Repeals the existing provisions under part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII under which payment to a provider of services shall be the lesser of the reasonable cost of such services or the customary charge with respect to such services, and provides that payment to a provider shall now be based upon the reasonable cost of such services. Limits to a maximum of 30 percent the amount by which the premium for voluntary participation in Medicare insurance may be increased due to late enrollment. Repeals the prohibition against enrolling more than twice in the Supplementary Medical Insurance Program (part B of title XVIII). Authorizes Medicare coverage for certain services furnished by: (1) chiropractors; and (2) clinical psychologists to certain hospital inpatients. Directs the Secretary to develop and carry out demonstration projects to determine how to make the services of clinical social workers more generally available under the Medicare program.

Bill· HRH.R. 4009 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XI of the Social Security Act with respect to the status of Professional Standards Review Organizations and Statewide Professional Standards Review Councils.

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1979

Amends part B (Professional Standards Review) of title XI of the Social Security Act to provide that no Professional Standards Review Organization and no statewide Professional Standards Review Council shall be considered an agency of the United States Government for purposes of the Administrative Procedure Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 3997 (96th)referred

National Digestive Diseases Prevention, Cure, and Control Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1979

National Digestive Diseases Prevention, Cure, and Control Act - Amends title IV of the Public Health Service Act (National Research Institutes) to establish a National Digestive Diseases Education and Information Clearinghouse to collect and disseminate information respecting digestive diseases and to serve as a national educational resource for patients with digestive diseases. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to medical schools for education and training programs in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of digestive diseases. Establishes a 24-member part-time National Digestive Diseases Advisory Board to advise on the coordination of Federal agencies' efforts in the implementation of the long- range plan of the National Commission on Digestive Diseases, among other specified functions. Terminates such Board on September 30, 1982.

Bill· HRH.R. 3972 (96th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include dental care, eye care, hearing aids, physical checkups, and foot care among the items and services for which payment may be made under the supplementary medical insurance program, and to provide safeguards against consumer abuse in the provision of these items and services.

United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment under the supplementary medical insurance program for one comprehensive physical examination a year, dental care including dentures, eye examinations including eyeglasses, hearing aids including examination, and treatment of foot conditions. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to take steps to eliminate unnecessary or excessive medical appliance expenditures under the Medicare program by implementing appliance leasing, auditing of medical appliance manufacturers and providers, and by cross-referencing prevailing medical appliance rates. Includes under the term "medical appliance" hearing aids, eyeglasses, dentures, and similar health aids. States that the Federal Trade Commission should continue and increase scrutiny of the medical appliance industries in the interest of consumer protection. States that the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare should provide increased assistance to encourage the continuing education and training of hearing specialists, clinical audiologists, and physicians to improve the quality of hearing care, and to encourage the provision by State and local governments of more and better hearing care for the elderly, including a network of examination and treatment sites.

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