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Resolution· HRESH.Res. 536 (107th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2002
Commends the staffs of Members of Congress, the Capitol Police, the Office of the Attending Physician and his health care staff, and other members of the Capitol Hill community for their courage, professionalism, and dedication to serving the public in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks and the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office. Recognizes congressional leadership, congressional employees, the Capitol Police, and the Office of the Attending Physician and the health care professionals in his office, in particular, who by their quick actions and early intervention prevented actual cases of anthrax within the Capitol Complex. Requests that the President recognize the courage and professionalism of congressional staff, the Capitol Police, and other members of the Capitol Hill community for their public service in continuing to do the public's business in defiance of terrorist attacks.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 139 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002
Declares that it is the sense of Congress that: (1) a National Minority Health and Health Disparities Month should be established to promote educational efforts on the health problems currently facing minorities and other populations experiencing health disparities; (2) the Secretary of Health and Human Services should present public service announcements on health promotion and disease prevention that target minorities and other populations experiencing health disparities in the United States and educate the public and health care professionals about health disparities; (3) the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality should continue to collect and report data on health care access and utilization on patients by race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and, where possible, primary language to monitor the Nation's progress toward the elimination of health care disparities; and (4) the information gained should be disseminated to all health care professionals so that they may better communicate with all patients, regardless of race or ethnicity, without bias or prejudice.
Bill· HRH.R. 5392 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002
Prohibits the absence of a participation agreement or other contractual arrangement entered into by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs under a health-plan contract or with a preferred provider organization from being used to, or operating to, prevent, or reduce the amount of, any veterans' medical care cost recovery or collection by the United States.
Bill· SS. 2935 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2002
Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to make grants to political subdivisions of States ("localities") for the operation of mosquito control programs to prevent and control mosquito-borne diseases. Requires each locality receiving a grant for a control program to make available matching funds in an amount not less than 1/3 of the cost of the program, unless the Secretary waives the requirement due to extraordinary economic conditions in the locality. Permits the Secretary, acting through the Director, to make grants to localities for conducting assessments and plans for control programs, and to make grants to States for the purpose of coordinating control programs. Allows the Secretary to provide training and technical assistance to localities with respect to the planning, development, and operation of control programs and assessments and plans, either directly or through award of grants or contracts to public and private entities. Requires the Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to conduct or support research into methods to control the population of insects that transmit dangerous diseases to humans. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Food and Drug Administration should comprehensively review its protocols and regulations for screening of blood and platelet donors and their donated specimens and report on the ability of the protocols to protect the blood supply from West Nile virus. Directs the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to: (1) revise protocols and regulations to protect the blood supply and blood supply products from the West Nile virus to the maximum extent possible; and (2) expedite review of appropriate blood screening tests for the West Nile virus.
Bill· SS. 2933 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2002
Elder Justice Act - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new title XXII (Elder Justice) to establish: (1) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) an Office of Elder Justice, headed by a Director who shall develop objectives, priorities, policy, and a long-term plan for elder justice programs; (2) within HHS an Intra-Agency Elder Justice Steering Committee to coordinate HHS elder justice programs and policy; (3) the Elder Justice Coordinating Council to make recommendations for the coordination of activities, relating to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation and other crimes against elders, to HHS, the Department of Justice, and other relevant Federal, State, local, and private agencies and entities; and (4) the Advisory Board on Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation. Outlines provisions with respect to uniform collection, maintenance, and dissemination of national data relating to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Authorizes the HHS Secretary to award various grants, including grants for: (1) prevention of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; (2) five Centers of Excellence nationwide that shall specialize in research, clinical practice, and training relating to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; (3) six diverse communities to examine various types of elder shelters and to test various models for establishing safe havens; (4) nonprofit organizations to encourage such organizations to establish or continue volunteer programs that focus on the issues of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, or that provide related services; and (5) various multidisciplinary elder justice activities. Provides for: (1) reporting to law enforcement of crimes occurring in Federally-funded long-term care facilities; (2) revising the quality of long-term care; and (3) increasing consumer information about long-term care. Amends: (1) SSA titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) to establish programs to prevent abuse of skilled nursing facility and nursing facility residents; (2) the Public Health Service Act to increase the number of health care professionals with geriatric training; (3) the Older Americans Act of 1965 with respect to the long-term care ombudsman program; (4) part A (General Provisions) of SSA title XI to establish in HHS the Office of Adult Protective Services; and (5) SSA titles XVIII and XIX to assure safety of residents when nursing facilities close. Establishes in the Department of Justice an Office of Elder Justice. Amends the: (1) Federal criminal code to provide for a cause of action for elder abuse and neglect; and (2) Internal Revenue Code to provide for a long-term care facility worker employment tax credit.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 325 (107th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2002
Designates the month of September 2002 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Declares that the Federal Government has a responsibility to: (1) raise awareness about the importance of screening methods and treatment of prostate cancer; (2) increase research funding that is commensurate with the burden of the disease so that the causes of, and improved methods for screening, treating, and curing prostate cancer may be discovered; and (3) continue to consider ways for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for detecting and treating prostate cancer.
Bill· SS. 2923 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2002
Infertility Research Centers Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to mandate grants or contracts for two centers for improving methods of preventing infertility. Requires each center to: (1) conduct clinical and other applied research; (2) develop training protocols and conduct training; (3) develop model continuing education programs; and (4) disseminate information to professionals. Allows funds to be used for: (1) stipends for training program enrollees; and (2) fees to clinical trial subjects. Establishes a program of agreements with health professionals to conduct infertility prevention research in return for the Government repaying the professionals' educational loans.
Bill· SS. 2914 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2002
Medicare Incentive Payment Program Refinement Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise requirements for incentive payments for physicians' services furnished in underserved areas.
Bill· SS. 2913 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2002
Living Organ Donor Protections Act - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit health insurance discrimination in group premiums with respect to individuals who are living organ donors.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 138 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2002
Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health, should conduct or support research on the effectiveness of medical screening techniques for ovarian cancer, including the use of proteomic patterns in blood serum in combination with other techniques. Requires a report to Congress and the inclusion of such technique in Federal health care programs and group and individual health plans if it proves effective.
Bill· HRH.R. 5350 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2002
Prescription Affordability and Medicine Safety Act of 2002 - Authorizes appropriations for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for generic drug application review and the continuation of the education program on the use and therapeutic equivalency of drugs. Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States in support of State pharmacy benefit assistance programs. Requires a percentage of profits from the sale of certain drugs and biological products to be placed in a revolving fund and used to support the grants program. Limits the tax deductions for advertizing for prescription drug manufacturers. Limits the extension of the 30 month stay of FDA approval for any new (generic) drug, as specified, thereby limiting the brand name drug's patent owner's period of exclusive sales. Makes a patent owner's failure to timely file a civil action for infringement a bar to later action. Sets forth requirements for filing drug patent information with the FDA. Makes a patent owner's failure to timely file with the FDA a bar to civil actions for patent infringement. Requires the first generic drug applicant with a specified certification to forfeit the 180 day marketing exclusivity period to a subsequent generic drug applicant if the first generic drug applicant engages in certain behaviors which delay or prevent the marketing of the generic drug.
Bill· HRH.R. 5345 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2002
Prohibits the Secretary of the Interior, prior to January 1, 2005, from approving the relinquishment of any lease entered into for the establishment of a health care facility for the members of seven Indian tribes or bands in San Diego County, California, unless such lease's relinquishment has been approved by tribal resolution by each of the tribes or bands.
Bill· SS. 2904 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2002
Emergency Retiree Health Benefits Protection Act of 2002 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide emergency protections for retiree health benefits. Prohibits group health plans from making post-retirement reductions of retiree health benefits. Requires group health plans to adopt provisions barring post-retirement reductions in retiree health benefits. Requires group health plans to restore benefits reduced after retirement. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to waive or vary such requirements, if a plan sponsor applies for such exemption, upon finding that compliance would: (1) be adverse to the interests of plan participants in the aggregate; (2) not be administratively feasible; and (3) cause substantial business hardship to the sponsor. Establishes the Emergency Retiree Health Loan Guarantee Program and its Board. Authorizes the Program, through its Board, to guarantee loans provided by private banking and investment institutions to eligible plan sponsors to assist them in meeting obligations under this Act to restore benefits reduced after retirement. Authorizes the Secretary to assess civil penalties for violations of this Act.
Bill· SS. 2903 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2002
Veterans Health Care Funding Guarantee Act of 2002 - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) make available to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for programs, functions, and activities of the Veterans Health Administration for FY 2004 120 percent of the amount obligated during FY 2002; and (2) adjust the amount provided after FY 2004 based on the number of enrolled veterans and the number of others eligible for and provided care and the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index.
Bill· HRH.R. 5325 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2002
Second Opinion Coverage Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code to require group and individual health insurance coverage and group health plans to provide coverage for second opinions. Directs the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, of Labor, and of the Treasury to coordinate administration of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 5329 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2002
Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to expand the definition of public health pesticides, allowing the exemption (based upon economic return) from fees imposed under reregistration provisions for other pesticide active ingredients for only those that are "minor use" pesticides. Allows a portion of maintenance fees to be used for expedited processing and review of applications that propose the registration of an end use pesticide that is a public health pesticide only if it is a minor use pesticide.
Bill· HRH.R. 5321 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2002
Improving Our Well-Being Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to eliminate the geographic physician work adjustment factor from geographic indices used to adjust payments under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on differences in payment amounts under the Medicare physician fee schedule for physicians' services in different geographic areas. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish procedures under which the Secretary, and not the physician furnishing a service, is responsible for determining when a Medicare incentive payment must be made. Increases the amount of payment to certain non-teaching hospitals for inpatient hospital services during FY 2003 through 2005 according to a specified formula. Revises the Medicare payment rate for hospitals in areas other than large urban areas to reflect the full market basket increase without the 0.55 percentage point reduction currently required. Requires the Secretary to: (1) equalize urban and rural standardized payments under the Medicare Inpatient Hospital Prospective Payment System; and (2) increase payments for certain services furnished by small rural hospitals and services that benefit low-volume hospitals. Revises provisions, reimbursement procedures, payments, and ambulance services for specified hospitals. Reinstates the Medicare periodic interim payment for critical access hospitals. Requires the Secretary to pay the reasonable cost of home health services expended by certain home health agencies and increase the Medicare reimbursement rate for rural health clinics. Extends an increase for Medicare home health services furnished in rural areas and the availability of Medicare cost contracts for Medicare beneficiaries. Amends SSA title V (Maternal and Child Health Services)(SSA) to direct the Secretary to make grants to States to improve dental services to children enrolled in a State plan under title XIX (Medicaid) or title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP). Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a grant program for eligible entities and individuals (including Indian tribes) to expand the availability of primary dental care services where necessary. Directs the Secretary to establish demonstration projects to increase access to dental services for children in underserved areas.
Bill· HRH.R. 5320 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2002
Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003 - Makes appropriations for FY 2003 to the Department of Labor for: (1) the Employment and Training Administration, training and employment services; (2) community service employment for older Americans; (3) Federal unemployment benefits and allowances; (4) State unemployment insurance and employment service operations; (5) advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and other trust funds; (6) administration of employment and training programs, including welfare-to-work grants; (7) the Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration; (8) the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation; (9) the Employment Standards Administration; (10) certain special benefits; (11) the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program; (12) the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (13) the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; (14) the Mine Safety and Health Administration; (15) the Bureau of Labor Statistics; (16) the Office of Disability Employment Policy; (17) departmental management; (18) veterans employment and training; and (19) the Office of Inspector General. Makes appropriations for FY 2003 to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for: (1) the Health Resources and Services Administration; (2) health education assistance loans; (3) the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Trust Fund; (4) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP); (5) the National Institutes of Health (NIH); (6) the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; (7) the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality; (8) the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, for grants to States for Medicaid, payments to health care trust funds, and the Health Maintenance Organization Loan and Loan Guarantee Fund; (9) the Administration for Children and Families for payments to States for child support enforcement and family support programs, low income home energy assistance, refugee and entrant assistance, payments to States for child care and development block grants, social services block grants, children and families services programs, promoting safe and stable families, and payments to States for foster care and adoption assistance; (10) the Administration on Aging; (11) the Office of the Secretary, for general departmental management; (12) the Office of Inspector General; (13) the Office for Civil Rights; (14) policy research; (15) medical benefits for Public Health Service commissioned officers, and medical care for dependents and retired personnel; (16) health facilities construction and management funds for CDCP and NIH; and (17) the public health and social services emergency fund, for expenses related to countering potential biological, disease, and chemical threats to civilian populations. Makes appropriations for FY 2003 to the Department of Education for: (1) education for the disadvantaged; (2) impact aid; (3) school improvement programs; (4) Indian education; (5) English language acquisition; (6) special education; (7) rehabilitation services and disability research; (8) certain special institutions for persons with disabilities; (9) vocational and adult education; (10) certain student financial assistance programs; (11) specified higher education programs; (12) Howard University; (13) the college housing and academic facilities loans program; (14) the historically Black college and university capital financing program account; (15) education research, statistics, and assessment; (16) departmental management; (17) the Office for Civil Rights; (18) the Office of the Inspector General; and (19) student aid administration. Makes appropriations for FY 2003 to the: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) Institute of Museum and Library Services; (7) Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; (8) National Council on Disability; (9) National Labor Relations Board; (10) National Mediation Board; (11) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) Railroad Retirement Board; (13) Social Security Administration; and (14) U.S. Institute of Peace. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this Act.
Bill· SS. 2873 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Improving Our Well-Being Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to eliminate the geographic physician work adjustment factor from geographic indices used to adjust payments under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on differences in payment amounts under the Medicare physician fee schedule for physicians' services in different geographic areas. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish procedures under which the Secretary, and not the physician furnishing a service, is responsible for determining when a Medicare incentive payment must be made. Increases the amount of payment to certain non-teaching hospitals for inpatient hospital services during FY 2003 through 2005 according to a specified formula. Revises the Medicare payment rate for hospitals in areas other than large urban areas to reflect the full market basket increase without the 0.55 percentage point reduction currently required. Requires the Secretary to: (1) equalize urban and rural standardized payments under the Medicare Inpatient Hospital Prospective Payment System; and (2) increase payments for certain services furnished by small rural hospitals and services that benefit low-volume hospitals. Revises provisions, reimbursement procedures, payments, and ambulance services for specified hospitals. Reinstates the Medicare periodic interim payment for critical access hospitals. Requires the Secretary to pay the reasonable cost of home health services expended by certain home health agencies and increase the Medicare reimbursement rate for rural health clinics. Extends an increase for Medicare home health services furnished in rural areas and the availability of Medicare cost contracts for Medicare beneficiaries. Amends SSA title V (Maternal and Child Health Services)(SSA) to direct the Secretary to make grants to States to improve dental services to children enrolled in a State plan under title XIX (Medicaid) or title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP). Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a grant program for eligible entities and individuals (including Indian tribes) to expand the availability of primary dental care services where necessary. Directs the Secretary to establish demonstration projects to increase access to dental services for children in underserved areas.
Bill· SS. 2857 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Advance Planning and Compassionate Care Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop and report to Congress on outcome standards and measures to evaluate the performance of health care programs and projects that provide end-of-life care to individuals, and assess access to, and utilization of, such programs and projects. Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on all matters relating to the establishment and implementation of a national uniform policy on advanced directives for individuals receiving items and services under titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA). Amends SSA titles XVIII and XIX to: (1) require service providers and eligible organizations to provide an appropriately trained professional for discussing advance directive issues with all adult individuals receiving medical care by or through such entities; and (2) ensure that an advance directive valid in one State will be honored in another State. Requires the Secretary, through the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to: (1) operate a clearinghouse and a 24-hour toll-free telephone hotline to provide consumer information about advance directives, end-of-life decision making, and available end-of-life and hospice care services; and (2) conduct a demonstration project to develop new and innovative approaches to providing end-of-life care to Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP (SSA title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance)) beneficiaries. Establishes within HHS an End-of-Life Care Advisory Board.
Bill· SS. 2854 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Medicare Safety Net Hospital Improvement Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for the annual collection of data on inpatient and outpatient charges and modification of disproportionate share Medicare payments with respect to each hospital serving vulnerable populations.
Bill· SS. 2890 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Associate Administrator of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to award grants for newborn screening education and training, including followup.
Bill· SS. 2860 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Children's Health Improvement and Protection Act of 2002 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to: (1) revise the rules for redistribution and extended availability of FY 2000 and subsequent fiscal year allotments under SCHIP; (2) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a caseload stabilization pool and make an additional redistribution of allotments to stabilize caseloads; and (3) restore SCHIP funding for FY 2003 and 2004.
Bill· SS. 2889 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Securing Access, Value, and Equality in Health Care Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual a tax credit in an amount equal to the amount paid for qualified health insurance, subject to stated limitations. Requires persons who receive payments for health insurance coverage of an individual to make certain information returns. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make advance payments to the provider of an individual's qualified health insurance equal to the Secretary's estimate of the amount of credit allowable for the eligible individual.
Bill· SS. 2879 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Nursing Home Staffing Accountability Act of 2002 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require the information posted daily by skilled nursing facilities and nursing facilities for each nursing shift to include information regarding nurse staffing with respect to beds made available by reason of an agreement between the Secretary of Health and Human Services and a hospital to use its inpatient hospital facilities to furnish services which, if furnished by a skilled nursing facility, would constitute extended care services. Requires a skilled nursing facility and a nursing facility to submit electronically to the Secretary at least quarterly the nursing staff data posted daily for each nursing shift. Requires the Secretary to make such data publicly available, including on an Internet website. Requires a periodic audit of such data. Provides that, for as long as the Secretary publishes quality measures to help the public compare the quality of care that nursing facilities provide, these quality measures shall include a quality measure for nursing staff.
Bill· SS. 2848 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
David Jayne Medicare Homebound Modernization Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to the definition of homebound for purposes of determining Medicare eligibility for home health services. Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services from disqualifying from consideration as confined to the home, based on the purpose, frequency, or duration of the absences from the home, any individual who: (1) has been certified by a physician as having a permanent and severe condition that will not improve which requires the individual to receive assistance from another individual with at least three out of five activities of daily living for the rest of the individual's life; (2) requires one or more described home health services to achieve a functional condition giving the individual the ability to leave the home; and (3) has received part-time or intermittent nursing care provided by or under the supervision of a registered professional nurse.
Bill· SS. 2849 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Pancreatic Islet Cell Transplantation Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to include pancreases procured by an organ procurement organization and used for islet cell transplantation or research to be counted toward organ procurement organization certification. Establishes the Interagency Committee on Islet Cell Transplantation within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Requires the Committee to study related issues, including Federal research funding, the effect of specified policies on transplantation, and data collection. Instructs the Secretary of HHS to request the Institute of Medicine to provide a study of the impact of islet cell transplantation on juvenile diabetes patients, including their health and the treatment's cost-effectiveness.
Bill· SS. 2855 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Medicare Beneficiary Assistance Improvement Act of 2002 - Names the programs of benefits under the Medicaid program (title XIX of the Social Security Act (SSA)) that are commonly referred to as the "qualified Medicare beneficiary (QMB) program" and the "special low-income Medicare beneficiary (SLMB) program" as the Medicare Savings Programs. Amends SSA title XIX with respect to Medicare Savings Programs to: (1) increase the SLMB eligibility income level from 120 to 135 percent of the poverty line; (2) deem to be qualified Medicare beneficiaries in certain States individuals already receiving benefits under SSA title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI); (3) permit individual self-certification of income and use of a simplified QMB or SLMB application form; (4) provide for automatic reenrollment without need to reapply; (5) direct the Commissioner of Social Security to provide for QMB and SLMB outreach through local offices of the Social Security Administration; (6) eliminate the assets test; (7) prohibit estate recovery under QMB and SLMB; and (8) provide for three months retroactive eligibility with respect to Medicare cost-sharing for QMBs. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary), the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Administrator of Social Security to enter into an arrangement for a demonstration project to identify Medicare beneficiaries who are likely, based on Internal Revenue Service (IRS) data, to qualify for benefits under the OMB or SLMB programs. Requires the Secretary to enter into a demonstration project to provide States with funds to use such information to do ex parte determinations or other methods for identifying and enrolling potentially eligible individuals. Requires the Commissioner of Social Security to send a notice and application for Medicaid benefits to individuals identified as likely to be eligible for QMB or SLMB benefits when notifying them that they are eligible for benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or B (Supplementary Medical Insurance).
Bill· SS. 2835 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2002
Promoting Health Care Purchasing Cooperatives Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, to award grants for the development of health care purchasing cooperatives by two or more employers. Includes employers who self-insure as well as those with fewer than 100 employees who purchase insurance. Permits the use of funds for professional staff support and the conduct of a feasibility study. Requires the Secretary to determine a group's eligibility for a grant to establish a cooperative based upon the report of the feasibility study. Requires cooperatives to: (1) be nonprofit; (2) be wholly owned and governed by its member-employees; (3) assist members in pooling their health care insurance purchasing power; and (4) provide data and activities to improve the quality of health care decision-making.
Bill· SS. 2821 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2002
Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity Act (IMPACT Act) - Amends the Public Health Service Act to address issues of overweight and obesity. Expands certain existing grant programs for health professional training to include the treatment of overweight and obesity. Creates grant programs at the local level to promote increased physical activity and improved nutrition. Targets partnerships with businesses, schools, senior centers, day care facilities and other institutions. Includes tax and other incentives among covered activities. Expands an existing coordinated school health program to include grants for the development of programs which focus on healthy lifestyle, including balanced diet and physical activity. Authorizes the collection and analysis of data concerning the fitness levels of children and youth. Requires a study of the food and nutrition assistance programs run by the Department of Agriculture to determine how they can be improved or altered to help prevent obesity and overweight. Requires an evidence report (study) on the effectiveness of weight reduction programs. Permits the use of preventive health and health services block grants for community education programs which promote healthy eating and exercise habits. Creates a Medicare demonstration project to reduce obesity and other chronic disease risks in older Americans. Makes grants available to local healthcare delivery systems for overweight and obesity treatment and prevention demonstration programs. Requires a report on research into the causes and health implications of obesity and being overweight. Makes grants available for a national campaign to change children's health behaviors. Establishes the private, nonprofit National Nutrition Foundation for the Department of Agriculture to carry out research and dissemination pertaining to the nutrition and food assistance programs in the Department.
Bill· SS. 2819 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2002
State Children's Health Insurance Program Budget Allocation Act of 2002 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to permit a qualifying State to elect to use unexpended allotments under SCHIP for payments for FY 2002 and 2003 under SSA title XIX (Medicaid), and for expenditures under SCHIP. Revises requirements with respect to the redistribution and extended availability of funds unexpended from FY 1998 and 1999 allotments, and of funds unexpended from FY 2000 allotments, as well as those concerning the extended availability of certain other funds. Provides authority for qualifying States to use up to ten percent of FY 1998 and 1999 unexpended allotments for outreach activities under SCHIP.
Bill· SS. 2818 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2002
Timely Review and Increased Access to Affordable Drugs Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise provisions concerning the timing of generic drug availability. Prohibits (for subsequently issued patents) an extension of the 30 month stay of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for any new drug where an abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) contains a Paragraph IV filing/certification and the patent holder indicates an intention to bring a patent infringement suit against the new (generic) drug's manufacturer. Requires the first generic applicant (ANDA) with a Paragraph IV filing to forfeit the 180 day marketing exclusivity period to a subsequent generic applicant if the first generic applicant engages in certain behaviors which delay or prevent the marketing of the generic drug, including failure to market and agreements with the patent holder which violate the antitrust laws. Continues current regulations concerning bioeqiovalence. States that drugs which no longer require a prescription (over-the-counter) but that are sold as if they did are deemed misbranded (mislabeled and subject to seizure).
Bill· HRH.R. 5253 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Medical Liability Insurance Crisis Response Act of 2002 - Amends the McCarran-Ferguson Act (antitrust) to exempt from the antitrust laws joint conduct concerning data, forms, manuals and the provision of medical malpractice insurance pursuant to a public necessity market mechanism or the administration of such mechanism in a State. Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the prompt payment of claims. Amends the Public Health Service Act to address the issue of the nursing shortage through the Nursing Workforce Development Student Loan Repayment program, the establishment of a National Nurse Corps Scholarship program, and other grant and scholarship programs to train and retain nurses. Establishes an alternative dispute resolution system for medical malpractice cases which preempts other State and Federal law, excluding vaccine-related claims. Mandates mediation before trial. Requires certifications and affidavits by participating parties and attorneys that certain consultations and investigations have taken place and that their case is reasonable and meritorious. Imposes sanctions, including payment of attorney's fees and costs, for submitting false allegations. Permits the periodic payment of awards over $250,000. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to appoint an Advisory Commission on Medical Malpractice. Freezes medical malpractice insurance rates until after the Commission's report. Addresses other medical malpractice insurance issues, including withdrawal from the market, guaranteed coverage and renewability, and disclosure. Requires the Secretary to establish an interactive, secure Internet site to provide medical malpractice insurance quotes. Amends the Liability Risk Retention Act of 1986 to mandate equal treatment between traditional insurers and risk retention groups.
Bill· HRH.R. 5297 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Health Care Continuation Coverage Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a program to provide premium assistance for qualified individuals for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) continuation coverage under the Public Health Service Act, the Internal Revenue Code, and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Requires States to provide temporary Medicaid coverage, under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, for individuals who: (1) have become totally or partially separated from employment on or after July 1, 2001; (2) are not eligible for COBRA continuation coverage; and (3) are not covered under a group health plan, health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. Includes coverage of such individuals' spouses and dependents who are also uninsured. Requires States, under Medicaid, to pay the unsubsidized portion of COBRA continuation benefits for individuals who: (1) have become totally or partially separated from employment on or after July 1, 2001; and (2) are eligible for COBRA continuation coverage. Includes coverage of such individuals' spouses and dependents who are also eligible and otherwise uninsured. Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to exclude unemployment compensation in determining eligibility and benefits under such Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 5313 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Child Abuse Reporting Grant Option (CARGO) Act - Authorizes the Attorney General to make grants to eligible States for: (1) hiring and training law enforcement personnel for child abuse cases; and (2) programs to help abused children cope. Requires an eligible State to have in effect laws: (1) requiring that a "mandatory reporter" (defined to include a health care provider, social worker, child care provider, law enforcement officer, officer of a religious organization, or photographic print processor) report to law enforcement authorities each instance of suspected child abuse, except when the information forming the basis of the suspicion is protected by attorney-client or clergy-penitent privilege; (2) providing appropriate punishments for violations of that requirement; and (3) having a statute of limitations for prosecution of criminal offenses relating to child abuse of not less than five years from the later of the date of the offense or the date on which the alleged victim became 18 years old. Sets forth requirements regarding applications, restrictions on the use of funds, allocation of grant amounts, and expenditure records.
Bill· HRH.R. 5306 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Urban and Rural Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants and loans for the development of indoor centers for disease prevention and health promotion, specifically, indoor recreational facilities. Makes State and local government agencies and community development public authorities eligible for such grants and loans. Allocates funds according to population. Requires matching funds for grants. Requires compliance with the prevailing wage requirements of Davis-Bacon.
Bill· HRH.R. 5250 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Veterans Health Care Funding Guarantee Act of 2002 - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) make available to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for programs, functions, and activities of the Veterans Health Administration for FY 2004 120 percent of the amount obligated during FY 2002; and (2) adjust the amount provided after FY 2004 based on the number of enrolled veterans and the number of others eligible for and provided care and the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index. Repeals, as of October 1, 2003, requirements for the prior congressional approval of funding for Department major medical facilities projects or leases.
Bill· HRH.R. 5311 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Prescription Drug Affordability Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise provisions concerning the timing of generic drug availability. Requires applicants (pharmaceutical companies) to register their patents with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within 30 days of approval (or issuance for subsequently issued patents). Makes failure to timely register a bar to civil actions for patent infringement. Requires applications for new drugs (NDA) or abbreviated new drug applications (ANDA) which rely upon investigations not conducted by or for the applicant and which concern a patent that claims both the drug and a method of use or more than one method of use to include a certification on a claim-by-claim basis that the patent is invalid or will not be infringed (known as a Paragraph IV filing/certification) by the new drug's (generic) manufacture and a statement regarding the method(s) of use claim. Prohibits (for subsequently issued patents) an extension of the 30 month stay of FDA approval for any new drug where an ANDA or NDA contains a Paragraph IV filing/certification and the patent holder indicates an intention to bring a patent infringement suit against the new (generic) drug's manufacturer. Makes failure to timely file a civil action for infringement a bar to later action. Requires the first generic applicant with a Paragraph IV filing to forfeit the 180 day marketing exclusivity period to a subsequent generic applicant if the first generic applicant engages in certain behaviors (forfeiture events) which delay or prevent the marketing of the generic drug. Revises notice requirements for Paragraph IV filings to include and protect certain proposed formulation, composition, or method of use information. Excludes an applicants's ability to pay damages from a court's consideration of whether or not to provide injunctive relief before the expiration of the 30 month stay of approval period.
Bill· HRH.R. 5282 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Improved Vaccine Affordability and Availability Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize additional appropriations for grants to States to increase influenza immunization rates in high risk populations, including medically underserved adults and adolescents, and extend vaccine availability. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a program of research, demonstration projects, and education to ensure that immunizations are routinely offered to adults and adolescents by public and private health care providers. Requires such program to collect data on adverse impacts associated with immunizations. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop and disseminate information concerning certain diseases and their vaccines, including bacterial meningitis and hepatitis A and B; and (2) maintain a 6 months supply of prioritized vaccines. Revises provisions governing the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, including provisions regarding: (1) equitable relief; (2) parent petitions; (3) jurisdiction to dismiss improperly brought claims; (4) vaccine-unrelated injury; (5) the basis for calculating projected lost earnings; (6) compensation for family counseling and establishing guardianship expenses; (7) payment of interim costs; (8) procedures for paying attorney's fees; (9) extending the statute of limitations; (10) the composition and meeting schedule of the Advisory Committee on Childhood Vaccines; and (11) standards of responsibility and the definitions of manufacturer, vaccine-related injury or death, and vaccine. Requires the Secretary to contract with the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Science to conduct an ongoing, comprehensive review of new scientific data on childhood vaccines.
Bill· HRH.R. 5272 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Prescription Drug Fair Competition Act of 2002 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise provisions concerning the timing of generic drug availability. Requires applicants (pharmaceutical companies) to register their patents with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within 30 days of approval (or issuance for subsequently issued patents). Makes failure to timely register a bar to civil actions for patent infringement. Requires applications for new drugs (NDA) or abbreviated new drug applications (ANDA) which rely upon investigations not conducted by or for the applicant and which concern a patent that claims both the drug and a method of use or more than one method of use to include a certification on a claim-by-claim basis that the patent is invalid or will not be infringed (known as a Paragraph IV filing/certification) by the new drug's (generic) manufacture and a statement regarding the method(s) of use claim. Prohibits (for subsequently issued patents) an extension of the 30 month stay of FDA approval for any new drug where an ANDA or NDA contains a Paragraph IV filing/certification and the patent holder indicates an intention to bring a patent infringement suit against the new (generic) drug's manufacturer. Makes failure to timely file a civil action for infringement a bar to later action. Requires the first generic applicant with a Paragraph IV filing to forfeit the 180 day marketing exclusivity period to a subsequent generic applicant if the first generic applicant engages in certain behaviors which delay or prevent the marketing of the generic drug. Revises notice requirements for Paragraph IV filings to include and protect certain proposed formulation, composition, or method of use information. Excludes an applicants's ability to pay damages from a court's consideration of whether or not to provide injunctive relief before the expiration of the 30 month stay of approval period.
Bill· HRH.R. 5241 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Lifespan Respite Care Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to award grants or cooperative agreements to develop State-wide lifespan respite care programs. Defines "lifespan respite care" to mean a coordinated system of accessible community-based respite care services for family caregivers regardless of the individual's age, race, ethnicity, or special need. Requires the Secretary to establish a review panel to make recommendations on applicants. Permits the use of funds for respite care services and training programs. Limits grants to five years. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a National Resource Center on Lifespan Respite Care to maintain a national database and provide training, technical assistance, and information.
Bill· HRH.R. 5299 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Steve Grissom Relief Fund Act of 2002 - Establishes the Steve Grissom Relief Fund in the Treasury. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make single payments to individuals infected with HIV or diagnosed with AIDS as a result of HIV- contaminated blood, blood components, human tissue or organs. Includes lawful spouses, as specified. Sets forth documentation, petition, determination, and payment procedures. States that such payments do not create or admit any claim or constitute income for income tax, supplemental security income benefits, and other purposes. Prohibits the assignment or transfer of rights under this title. Limits petitions to one per victim. Terminates the program after five years. Excludes payments from consideration as compensation or reimbursement for a loss as it concerns insurance or worker's compensation.
Bill· HRH.R. 5259 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Budget Fraud Elimination Act of 2002 - Redefines the public debt to exclude intragovernment obligations and reduces the public debt ceiling. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to establish biennial budgeting. Makes conforming amendments, including requirements for government strategic and performance plans. Creates a special transition period for the 108th Congress. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to state that certain emergency legislation shall not be extended in the baseline. Establishes emergency criteria. Spending Accountability Reserve Act of 2002 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to establish a spending accountability reserve ledger to credit any reductions in new budget authority in an appropriation bill. Adjusts the respective appropriation allocation and discretionary spending limits downward accordingly. Enhanced Rescissions Act of 2002 - Amends the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to authorize the President to propose at any time the rescission of any budget authority he identifies as wasteful spending. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to extend the budget enforcement mechanisms of discretionary spending limits (caps) and pay-as-you-go (Paygo). Provides for treatment of extraneous appropriations in omnibus appropriation measures. Amends the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund to provide for accrual funding of pensions and retirement pay for Federal employees and Uniformed Services Personnel. Provides accrual funding of retirement benefits for Federal employees covered by the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System, the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Retirement System, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Retirement System, and the Coast Guard Military Retirement Fund. Provides for the accrual funding of post-retirement health benefits costs as well.
Bill· HRH.R. 5243 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Rural Safety and Law Enforcement Improvement Act- Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to: (1) authorize the Attorney General to make grants to rural local and tribal governments for the retention for one additional year of police officers funded through the cops on the beat (or COPS) program; (2) authorize the use of COPS grants on a matching funds basis to assist the police departments of such units in improving police communications, and in developing and improving access to crime-solving technologies; and (3) hire personnel and purchase equipment for rural areas to assist in the enforcement and prosecution of methamphetamine offenses and the environmental cleanup of methamphetamine-affected areas. Directs the Office of Justice Programs of the Department of Justice to make grants to such units to establish or improve 911 service in those communities. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, to make grants to establish in rural areas substance abuse (particularly methamphetamine) prevention and treatment pilot programs and methamphetamine prevention education programs. Directs the Attorney General to provide for the cleanup of methamphetamine laboratories and related hazardous waste, and for the improvement of contract-related response time for cleanup of methamphetamine laboratories and related hazardous waste by providing additional contract personnel, equipment, and facilities, in rural areas. Establishes a Rural Policing Institute as part of the Small Town and Rural Training Program..
Bill· HRH.R. 5276 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Medicare Beneficiary Assistance Improvement Act of 2002 - Names the programs of benefits under the Medicaid program (title XIX of the Social Security Act (SSA)) that are commonly referred to as the "qualified Medicare beneficiary (QMB) program" and the "special low-income Medicare beneficiary (SLMB) program" as the Medicare Savings Programs. Amends SSA title XIX with respect to Medicare Savings Programs to: (1) increase the SLMB eligibility income level from 120 to 135 percent of the poverty line; (2) deem to be qualified Medicare beneficiaries in certain States individuals already receiving benefits under SSA title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI); (3) permit individual self-certification of income and use of a simplified QMB or SLMB application form; (4) provide for automatic reenrollment without need to reapply; (5) direct the Commissioner of Social Security to provide for QMB and SLMB outreach through local offices of the Social Security Administration; (6) eliminate the assets test; (7) prohibit estate recovery under QMB and SLMB; and (8) provide for three months retroactive eligibility with respect to Medicare cost-sharing for QMBs. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary), the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Administrator of Social Security to enter into an arrangement for a demonstration project to identify Medicare beneficiaries who are likely, based on Internal Revenue Service (IRS) data, to qualify for benefits under the OMB or SLMB programs. Requires the Secretary to enter into a demonstration project to provide States with funds to use such information to do ex parte determinations or other methods for identifying and enrolling potentially eligible individuals. Requires the Commissioner of Social Security to send a notice and application for Medicaid benefits to individuals identified as likely to be eligible for QMB or SLMB benefits when notifying them that they are eligible for benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or B (Supplementary Medical Insurance).
Bill· HRH.R. 5269 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Health Security for All Americans Act - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new title XXII (Health Security For All Americans) with a part A (Expansion Phase) and a part B (Universal Phase) providing funds to States for universal health insurance coverage through State administered systems which offer at least the benefits provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program standard Blue Cross-Blue Shield preferred provider option service benefit plan. Adds a part C (Consumer Protections) listing home care standards and providing for consumer protection. Establishes within the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Institute. Establishes a Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Committee to advise the Director of the Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Institute. Requires that each individual entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) be provided full mental health and substance abuse treatment parity under Medicare consistent with SSA title XXII (as added by this Act). Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct studies and demonstration projects that are designed to identify model programs for the provision of long-term and home health care services. Makes specified provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) inapplicable to health benefits provided under a group health plan qualified to offer such benefits under an expansion phase (phase I) plan or a universal phase (phase II) plan under SSA title XXII.
Bill· HRH.R. 5265 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Good Medicine Cultural Competence Act of 2002 - Establishes the Cultural Competence Commission to study and report on establishing standards in cultural competence education for medical and health professionals. Addresses issues of training, clinical guidelines and protocols, access, vulnerable populations, policy forums and think tanks, incentives, collaboration, and enforcement mechanisms.
Bill· HRH.R. 5246 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Rural Equity Medicare Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA), the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 (BIPA), and other Federal law to revise Medicare payments for rural and other health care providers, including those for inpatient critical access hospital services, home health care, and hospice care. Amends SSA title XI to provide that any remuneration in the form of an agreement between a public or non-profit private health center and any individual or entity providing goods or services to the health center is not a violation of the anti-kickback statute if such agreement contributes to the ability of the health center to maintain or increase the availability or quality of services provided to a medically underserved population. Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) replace current demonstration projects under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) with a permanent program for competitive acquisition of certain items and services; (2) extend the moratorium on the cap on therapy expenses for purposes of payment of Medicare benefits; and (3) provide for Medicare coverage of a free initial preventive physical examination. Amends BIPA to specify that the prohibition on exceptions to the composite rate would not apply to pediatric renal facilities that, as of October 1, 2002, do not have an exception rate. Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) exclude payment for screening mammography and unilateral and bilateral diagnostic mammography from the prospective payment system for hospital outpatient services; (2) waive the Medicare part B late enrollment penalty, beginning in January 2003, for certain military retirees who demonstrate they are covered beneficiaries; and (3) provide Medicare coverage of cholesterol and other blood lipid screening tests. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the OASIS Task Force to examine the data collection and reporting requirements under the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS). Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) revise the treatment of occasional absences in determining whether an individual is confined to the home; and (2) provide for the redistribution of unused resident positions. Directs the Secretary to issue final written guidance concerning the application of the prohibition in title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 against national origin discrimination as it affects the access of persons with limited English proficiency to Medicare health care services.
Bill· HRH.R. 5249 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2002
Safe Overseas Human Testing Act - Declares it is the policy of Congress to control the export of drugs and other test articles intended for overseas clinical investigations involving human participants in order to foster public health and safety, prevent injury to U.S. foreign policy, and preserve the credibility of the United States as a responsible trading partner. Requires a license approved by the President for the export of such test articles. Sets forth certain export license requirements, including that the license applicant shall: (1) identify each clinical investigation for which the test article is intended; and (2) submit proof that each of the protocols for every clinical investigation has been reviewed by an institutional review board and has, at a minimum, met substantially the same standards for the protection of the rights and welfare of human subjects as that required for Institutional Review Boards approval of protocols for clinical investigations (in the United States) of test articles pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Bill· SS. 2793 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2002
Help Efficient, Accessible, Low Cost, Timely Health Care (HEALTH) Act of 2002 - Makes changes to the health care liability system, including compensation for injured patients and other issues arising out of health care law suits. Requires a suit to be brought within three years of the date of injury or one year after the claimant discovers or should have discovered the injury, whichever occurs first. Sets forth requirements and permissible recovery amounts for compensating patient injury, including: (1) the full amount of economic loss without limitation; (2) noneconomic damages as specified; and (3) a fair share rule. Requires the court to supervise payment-of-damage arrangements, limiting contingency fees. Permits the introduction of evidence of collateral source benefits. Limits the availability of punitive damages, requiring clear and convincing evidence of malicious intent to injure or a deliberate failure to avoid substantially certain, unnecessary injury. Prohibits their award for products that comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards, absent material and knowing misrepresentation by those submitting required approval or clearance information to the FDA. Authorizes periodic payment of future damages to claimants. Excludes suits for vaccine-related death or injury from the requirements of this Act if otherwise covered under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. Preempts State law unless such law imposes greater protections for health care providers and organizations from liability, loss, or damages. .