Healthcare

Long-Term Care Bailout Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Long-Term Care Bailout Prevention Act - Repeals provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act entitled the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act, or the CLASS Act, which establish a national, voluntary insurance program for purchasing community living assistance services and supports in order to provide individuals with functional limitations with tools that will allow them to maintain their personal and financial independence and live in the community.

A resolution designating the week beginning October 3, 2010, as "National Nurse-Managed Health Clinic Week".

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Designates the week beginning October 3, 2010, as National Nurse-Managed Health Clinic Week and expresses support for its goals and ideals. Encourages the expansion of such clinics so that they may continue to serve as health care workforce development sites for the next generation of primary care providers.

A resolution congratulating the National Institute of Nursing Research on the occasion of its 25th anniversary.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Congratulates the National Institute of Nursing Research on the occasion of its 25th anniversary. Commends the Institute for its ongoing support of nursing research.

Raising awareness of hypertension and helping to reverse its prevalence in the United States through education, community programs, culturally competent strategies, research, and efforts to reduce the excess salt content in foods.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Encourages individuals to be proactive about their health and to become knowledgeable of their blood pressure and their risk for hypertension. Expresses support for: (1) community-based programs that use culturally competent and evidence-based strategies to address hypertension; and (2) research that provides a better understanding of how hypertension affects communities that have been historically underrepresented in demographic studies and clinical trials for antihypertensive drugs. Recognizes the importance of linking hypertension awareness programs to other existing programs that address health concerns such as diabetes and obesity at the community health and development levels. Calls for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to set mandatory national standards, including improved nutrition labeling, for the sodium content in foods.

Making Investments Now for Dementia Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Making Investments Now for Dementia Act of 2010 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury (the Secretary) to issue bonds to aid in the funding of Alzheimer's research in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Declares that the bonds authorized under this Act shall be in such form and denominations, and shall be subject to such terms and conditions of issue, conversion, redemption, maturation, payment, and rate of interest, as the Secretary may prescribe. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress describing the actions taken by the Secretaries during the year, with the first such report describing the implementation of the program and subsquent reports describing the use of funds and the status of the program. Authorizes appropriations to the Director of NIH for research on Alzheimer's research equal to the amounts received by the Secretary from the sale of bonds under this Act, less amounts determined by the Secretary to be necessary for administration of such sales. Expresses the sense of Congress that any funds collected pursuant to this Act are in addition to yearly appropriated funds and are not to be used to supplement current funding.

Medical Freedom Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Medical Freedom Act of 2010 - Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) or any state from requiring any health care provider to participate in any health plan as a condition of licensure of the provider in any state.

Regenerative Medicine Promotion Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Regenerative Medicine Promotion Act of 2010 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to: (1) submit to Congress a report identifying all ongoing federal programs and activities regarding regenerative medicine; and (2) establish a Regenerative Medicine Coordinating Council in the Office of the Secretary. Includes among the duties of the Council: (1) preparing a national strategy for the promotion of research into regenerative medicine and the development of drugs, biological products, medical devices, and biomaterials for use in regenerative medicine; (2) identifying sources of funding for research into regenerative medicine and areas where such funding is inadequate; and (3) making recommendations regarding federal policies to support development and marketing of regenerative medicine products. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to make grants for: (1) basic or preclinical research into regenerative medicine; (2) research and development of drugs, biological products, medical devices, and biomaterials for use in regenerative medicine; and (3) the making of an investigational new drug application or an investigational device exemption application within four years of receiving such grant. Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Director of NIH to award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to accelerate the development of high need cures through the development of medical products and behavioral therapies for use in regenerative medicine. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, to: (1) conduct, support, or collaborate in regulatory research to assist the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in performing its functions with respect to regenerative medicine; or (2) make grants to fund regulatory research for such purpose.

Provider Tax Administrative Simplification Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Provider Tax Administrative Simplification Act of 2010 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to approve a waiver of the uniform tax requirement (whether or not the tax is broad based), regardless of whether the state concerned satisfies certain requirements, for any state with a provider tax that does not apply to continuing care retirement communities or life care communities that: (1) have no beds certified to provide medical assistance under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act; or (2) do not provide services for which Medicaid payment may be made.

To amend section 340B of the Public Health Service Act to allow certain covered entities to resell or transfer a covered outpatient drug to an individual with HIV/AIDS in connection with medication regimen adherence services being provided to the individual by a licensed health care professional of the entity.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to revise provisions of the 340B drug discount program (a program limiting the cost of covered outpatient drugs to certain federal grantees) to permit a covered entity receiving assistance under title XXVI of the PHSA (popularly known as the Ryan White Care Act) to resell or transfer a drug to an individual with HIV/AIDS in connection with medication regimen adherence services being provided to the individual by a licensed health care professional of the entity. Excludes certain entities, including state and local governments.

Patient-Doctor Freedom Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Patient-Doctor Freedom Act of 2010 - Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) from precluding an enrollee, participant, or beneficiary in a health benefits plan from entering into any contract or arrangement for health care with any health care provider. Defines "health benefits plan" to exclude Medicaid and TriCare.

Protecting Student Athletes from Concussions Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Protecting Student Athletes from Concussions Act of 2010 - Requires each state educational agency, in order to be eligible to receive funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 in FY2013 or subsequent fiscal years, to issue regulations establishing the following minimum requirements for the prevention and treatment of concussions. Requires each local educational agency in the state to develop and implement a standard plan for concussion safety and management that includes: (1) the education of students, parents, and school personnel about concussions; (2) supports for students recovering from a concussion; and (3) best practices designed to ensure the uniformity of safety standards, treatment, and management. Requires each public elementary and secondary school to post on school grounds and make publicly available on the school website information on concussions, including information on risks, responses, symptoms, and effects. Requires public school personnel who suspect that a student has sustained a concussion during a school-sponsored activity to: (1) remove the student from the activity and prohibit such student from participating in school athletic activities until the student submits a written release from a health care professional; and (2) report to the student's parent or guardian regarding such injury and the treatment provided. Prohibits a student who has sustained a concussion in a school-sponsored athletic activity from resuming participation in school-sponsored athletic or academic activities until the school receives a written release from a health care professional that: (1) states that the student is capable of resuming participation; and (2) may require the student to follow a plan designed to aid such individual in recovering and resuming participation in a manner that is coordinated with periods of cognitive and physical rest, and that reintroduces cognitive and physical demands on a progressive basis, based on the student's symptoms.

Making full-year continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2011 at lower, previous year levels, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Makes continuing appropriations for FY2011. Appropriates amounts for continuing projects or activities which were conducted in FY2008-FY2010 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority were made available in section 101 of division A of P.L. 110-329 (Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009) in specified FY2008 appropriations Acts. Provides that, if the amount provided for a project or activity would be higher than the amount provided in appropriation Acts for FY2010, such project or activity shall be funded at the lower amount. Enacts into law: (1) the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2011, as reported in the 111th Congress by the Subcommittee on Defense of the House Committee on Appropriations; (2) the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2011, as reported in the 111th Congress by the Subcommittee on Homeland Security of the House Committee on Appropriations; and (3) the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2011, as passed in the 111th Congress by the House. Makes appropriations, funds, and authority granted pursuant to this joint resolution available through FY2011, unless otherwise provided for in the applicable appropriations Act. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities (including activities for entitlements and other mandatory payments) through such date. Prohibits the use of funds made available in this joint resolution: (1) to carry out any program under, promulgate any regulation pursuant to, or defend against any lawsuit challenging any provision of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, or any amendment made by either Act; or (2) for a congressional earmark.

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule relating to status as a grandfathered health plan under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Disapproves the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) relating to status as a Grandfathered Health Plan under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

A resolution designating September 23, 2010, as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Day" to raise awareness and encourage the prevention of falls among older adults.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Designates September 23, 2010, as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Commends the Falls Free Coalition Advocacy Work Group and the 31 state falls coalitions for their efforts to work together to increase education and awareness about the prevention of falls among older adults. Encourages: (1) businesses, individuals, governments, the public health community, and health care providers to work together to promote the awareness of, and reduce the incidence of, falls among older adults in the United States; (2) state health departments to reduce falls among older adults; and (3) experts in the field to share best practices. Urges the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to continue developing and evaluating strategies to prevent falls among older adults that will translate into effective fall prevention interventions, including community-based programs.

A resolution congratulating Walter Breuning on the occasion of his 114th birthday.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Congratulates Walter Breuning, the oldest man in the world, on the occasion of his 114th birthday.

FOR VETS Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Formerly Owned Resources for Veterans to Express Thanks for Service Act of 2010 or FOR VETS Act of 2010 - Includes organizations whose membership comprises substantially veterans among the nonprofit educational or public health institutions or organizations to which federal surplus property shall be transferred through state agencies for purposes of education or public health.

Job Creation and Tax Cuts Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Job Creation and Tax Cuts Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend expiring tax expenditure provisions relating to infrastructure financing, energy, individuals, housing, businesses, health care, and disaster relief. Requires a report to Congress on each tax expenditure extended by this Act. Makes technical corrections and other amendments to laws relating to pension funding. Sets forth tax rules for the treatment of partnership interests transferred in connection with the performance of services. Treats as ordinary income or loss net income or loss from an investment services partnership interest. Extends through 2020 the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund financing rate and increases such rate to 78 cents a barrel. Increases from $1 billion to $5 billion the per incident limitation on expenditures from such Trust Fund. Denies a tax deduction for the payment of punitive damages. Includes in taxpayer gross income punitive damages paid by an insurer. Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Social Security Act, and other statutes relating to health care assistance to individuals. Provides additional funding for: (1) grants to states for youth activities, including summer employment; and (2) the Housing Trust Fund for low-income housing programs. Individual Indian Money Account Litigation Settlement Act of 2010 - Authorizes, ratifies, and confirms the Class Action Settlement Agreement dated December 7, 2009, in the case entitled Elouise Cobell et al. v. Ken Salazar . Establishes in the Treasury the Trust Land Consolidation Fund and the Indian Education Scholarship Holding Fund to carry out terms of the Settlement Agreement. Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture to carry out the terms of a settlement agreement to resolve claims raised in the cases consolidated in In re Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation , including Pigford claims (relating to a racial discrimination action against the Department of Agriculture). Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010 to authorize expenditures from the Highway Trust Fund for allocations of infrastructure funding to states. Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to extend through 2013 duty suspensions on certain cotton fabrics. Authorizes transfers from the Treasury to restore payment levels from the Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund. Trade Adjustment Assistance Extension Act of 2010 - Amends the Trade and Globalization Adjustment Assistance Act of 2009 to extend through 2012 trade adjustment assistance programs. Extends through FY2011, and makes appropriations for, activities authorized by part A of title IV (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) (TANF) of the Social Security Act (SSA), other than the Emergency Contingency Fund for State Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Programs, in the manner authorized for FY2010, subject to the amendments made by this Act. Increases and extends through FY2011 grant funding to state courts to assess and improve handling of proceedings relating to foster care and adoption. Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to unemployment compensation program integrity. Extends: (1) through December 31, 2019, fees for customs services in connection with processing of merchandise; and (2) through September 30, 2019, fees for custom services in connection with commercial vehicles. Foreign-Held Debt Transparency and Threat Assessment Act - Requires: (1) the President to report to Congress quarterly on the risks posed by foreign holdings of debt instruments of the United States; (2) the Secretary of the Treasury to report annually on such risks; and (3) the Comptroller General to report annually on risks to the United States posed by the federal debt. Requires the President to formulate and implement a plan of action to reduce the risk posed by foreign holdings of debt instruments to U.S. long-term national security or economic stability. Establishes in the Department of the Treasury the Office of the Homeowner Advocate to assist homeowners, housing counselors, and housing lawyers in resolving problems with the Home Affordable Modification Program. Provides for compliance of the budgetary effects of this Act with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010.

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the CHAMPVA program, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Makes a child eligible for medical care under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) eligible for such care until the child's 26th birthday, regardless of the child's marital status. Makes such provision inapplicable before January 1, 2014, to a child who is eligible to enroll in an employer-sponsored health care plan.

Community Health Improvement Councils Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Community Health Improvement Councils Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a program for the creation of State Health Improvement Technical Assistance Centers and Community Health Improvement Councils to improve community health through local innovation. Defines "Community Health Improvement Council" to mean a locally driven, private, nonprofit entity that serves as the neutral convener for engaging providers and insurers and that fully engages patients and citizens in coordinating and improving the health care delivery system through community-wide education programs to promote healthier lifestyles, improve local or regional health status, clinical outcomes, and reductions in the growth in medical spending and health disparities through various approaches. Requires the Secretary to award competitive grants to five eligible entities to establish State Health Improvement Technical Assistance Centers, each of which shall: (1) establish up to four Community Health Improvement Councils; (2) provide technical assistance to such Councils; and (3) report on improvements in local and state health status, clinical outcomes, reductions in medical spending growth, and health care disparities. Requires the Secretary, in awarding grants, to give preference to entities that: (1) demonstrate the capacity to attract private sector or local government funding to ensure fiscal sustainability; (2) address significant health disparities; (3) demonstrate coordination or collaboration across governmental and nongovernmental sectors; (4) are committed to promoting full transparency of all deliberations of the Technical Assistance Centers and Community Health Improvement Councils; and (5) are independent from government and the financial self-interest of health care and purchasers stakeholders.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of clinical psychologists as physicians for purposes of furnishing clinical psychologist services under the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to treat as a physician, for Medicare purposes, a clinical psychologist acting within the scope of a psychologist's license (or other state law authorization), but only with respect to the furnishing of clinical psychologists services which the psychologist is legally authorized to perform by the state.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2010 and expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should continue to raise awareness of domestic violence in the United States and its devastating effects on families and communities, and support programs and practices designed to prevent and end domestic violence.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Supports the goals and ideals of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Recognizes Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day (HCADV Day) as an awareness-raising day to reach members of the health care community and educate them about the critical importance of assessing for domestic violence, as well as the long-term health implications of domestic violence and lifetime exposure to violence. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should: (1) continue to raise awareness of domestic violence in the United States and its devastating effects on families and communities; and (2) support programs designed to end domestic violence.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to efforts to extend the Health Coverage Tax Credit to provide access to affordable healthcare for Delphi retirees and other eligible individuals.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Health Coverage Tax Credit should be extended by the end of the year to help Delphi retirees and other eligible individuals receive affordable healthcare.

PENDING PUBLIC HEALTH LEGISLATION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 15 September 2010

Extension of Health Care Eligibility for Veterans Who Served at Qarmat Ali Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Extension of Health Care Eligibility for Veterans Who Served at Qarmat Ali Act - Makes eligible for hospital and nursing home care and medical services for any disability, notwithstanding sufficient medical evidence to conclude that such disability is associated with exposure to sodium dichromate (or other toxic substances), a veteran who: (1) served on active duty at or near the water injection plant at Qarmat Ali, Iraq, during Operation Iraqi Freedom; (2) is notified by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) of possible exposure to sodium dichromate during such service; and (3) enrolls in the VA patient enrollment system within five years after such notification. Authorizes the Secretary to base a notification of possible exposure to sodium dichromate (or other toxic substances) on information received from the Secretary of Defense (DOD).

To provide for a 10 percent reduction in pay for Members of Congress; to make Federal civilian employees subject to a period of mandatory unpaid leave, and to reduce appropriations for salaries and expenses for offices of the legislative branch, during fiscal year 2011; and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Requires a 10% reduction in the annual rate of pay for Members of Congress. Requires the President by regulation to subject employees in the executive branch, during FY2011, to: (1) a total of two weeks of mandatory unpaid leave; or (2) the pro rata equivalent in the case of employees serving for less than the entire fiscal year. Requires the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, by regulation, to apply such requirements to employees in the judicial branch. Allows such regulations to make exceptions for: (1) national security reasons; (2) reasons relating to the public health or safety, including effective law enforcement; or (3) such other reasons as the President considers necessary or appropriate. Limits the aggregate amount which may be appropriated or otherwise made available for any fiscal year for allowances and expenses (including salaries) of any legislative branch office, except the U.S. Capitol Police, to 96% of the aggregate amount appropriated or otherwise made available for FY2010 for such allowances and expenses.

Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on inpatient psychiatric hospital services.

Strengthening Medicare Anti-Fraud Measures Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Strengthening Medicare Anti-Fraud Measures Act of 2010 - Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to exclude from participation in any federal health care program entities affiliated with a sanctioned entity, as well as any officer or managing employee of an affiliated entity (currently, only individuals with an ownership or control interest in a sanctioned entity), if the affiliated entity was so affiliated at the time of any of the conduct forming the basis for the conviction or exclusion of the sanctioned entity.

PROSTATE Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Prostate Research, Outreach, Screening, Testing, Access, and Treatment Effectiveness Act of 2010 or the PROSTATE Act of 2010 - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish the Interagency Prostate Cancer Coordination and Education Task Force to coordinate federal activities relating to prostate cancer, including by: (1) developing a summary of advances in federal prostate cancer research and a list of best practices for treatment of prostate cancer that warrant broader adoption in health care programs; (2) coordinating information on federal research and health care program activities relating to prostate cancer; (3) developing a comprehensive interagency strategy on, and advising agencies in, the solicitation of proposals for collaborative, multidisciplinary research and health care programs relating to prostate cancer; and (4) developing a coordinated message related to screening and treatment for prostate cancer to be reflected in educational and beneficiary materials for federal health programs. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and carry out a program to coordinate and intensify prostate cancer research, including by: (1) carrying out research to develop advances in improved early detection, diagnostic, and prognostic methods and tests; (2) carrying out research to better understand the etiology of prostate cancer to improve prevention efforts; (3) expanding basic research into prostate cancer; and (4) establishing clinical registries for prostate cancer. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Defense (DOD), and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to incorporate prostate cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for medically underserved populations into the telehealth programs of their departments, including by: (1) giving priority to populations in medically underserved areas and in rural and highly rural areas; (2) promoting the efficient use of specialist care; and (3) more effectively employing tumor boards to better counsel patients. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) carry out a national education campaign to encourage men to seek prostate cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment when appropriate; and (2) award grants to private nonprofit organizations to test alternative outreach and education strategies.

A resolution designating September 12, 2010, as "National Day of Encouragement".

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Designates September 12, 2010, as National Day of Encouragement.

Health Data Collection Improvement Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Health Data Collection Improvement Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure that the collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity is provided for within HHS health service programs and health surveys. Makes the provision of such information by an individual voluntary. Prohibits an agency or person that collects data from an individual from using such data, or the decision of the individual not to provide such data, in any manner that adversely affects the individual. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop standards for the measurement of, and collection of information about, sexual orientation and gender identity; (2) analyze data collected under this Act to detect and monitor health disparities at the federal and state levels; (3) report to Congress and the public on the results of such analyses; and (4) integrate such data analyses with other activties that identify and analyze health disparities by race, ethnicity, sex, disability, primary language, or other population. Applies privacy protections to data collected under this Act and security safeguards to the collection, analysis and sharing of such data.

Telehealth Improvement and Expansion Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Telehealth Improvement and Expansion Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize appropriations for telehealth network and telehealth resource center grant programs. Includes state, local, and tribal health departments (currently, local health departments), skilled nursing facilities, community mental health centers, county mental health and public mental health facilities, and renal dialysis facilities as the entities that may be part of an eligible telehealth network. Revises the preferences for telehealth network grants to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to give preference to an eligible entity that: (1) is a health care provider in a health care network that furnishes services in a medically underserved area or a health professional shortage area; (2) demonstrates broad geographic coverage in the rural or medically undeserved areas of the state or states in which the entity is located; and (3) demonstrates its ability to use the grant to establish or develop plans for telehealth systems that will link rural hospitals and rural health care providers to other hospitals, health care providers, and patients. Reauthorizes appropriations for grants to state professional licensing boards to develop and implement state policies that will reduce statutory and regulatory barriers to telemedicine.

Stem Cell Research Advancement Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2010

Stem Cell Research Advancement Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct and support research that utilizes human stem cells, including human embryonic stem cells. Limits such research to stem cells that meet the following requirements: (1) the stem cells were derived from human embryos donated from in vitro fertilization clinics, were created for the purposes of reproductive treatment, and were in excess of the needs of the individuals seeking such treatment; (2) it was determined through consultation with the individuals seeking reproductive treatment that the embryos would never be implanted in a woman and would otherwise be discarded; and (3) the individuals seeking reproductive treatment donated the embryos with written informed consent and received no financial or other inducements. Requires the Secretary to maintain, review every three years, and update as scientifically warranted, guidelines applicable to the conduct or support of human stem cell research by HHS. Prohibits the Secretary from using any funds for the conduct or support of human cloning. Requires the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to include in its biennial report to Congress a summary of research activities on human stem cells.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to preserve integrated care for durable medical equipment under the competitive bidding program for qualified hospital-related DME entities.

United States · United States Congress · 10 August 2010

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to exempt qualified hospital-related durable medical equipment (DME) entities from programs for competitive acquisition of items and services. Defines a qualified hospital-related DME entity as a DME supplier that: (1) owns and controls, is owned and controlled by, or is under common ownership and control with one or more hospitals or one or more hospitals and a university; and (2) meets the applicable quality and financial standards. Declares that in the case of certain DME and medical supplies furnished by a qualified hospital-related DME entity in a competitive acquisition area for which a contract is in effect: (1) the competitive acquisition programs shall not apply; and (2) payment shall be made to the entity without regard to whether it submitted a bid or was awarded such a contract, and in the amount payable for such equipment and supplies under the contract for the area and period involved. Limits the application of this Act to items and services furnished by a qualified hospital-related DME entity that: (1) has provided satisfactory assurances that a substantial majority of its patients who are enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) are patients of a hospital that owns and controls, or is owned and controlled by, the entity or any provider of services affiliated with the hospital; and (2) was either furnishing items and services of such type on or before April 1, 2010, or owns and controls, is owned and controlled by, or is under common ownership and control with, a hospital (or one or more hospitals and a university) that was furnishing such items or services of such type on or before such date.

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 10 August 2010

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Amends the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005 to revise the National Cord Blood Inventory Program, including to: (1) remove the cap of 150,000 new units of cord blood to be made available for transplantation under the Program; and (2) require an application under the Program to include a  plan for, and demonstration of, ongoing measurable progress toward achieving self-sufficiency of cord blood unit collection and banking operations. Extends financial support provided under the Program for an additional five years. (Current law allows financial support for a maximum of ten years.) Sets forth requirements for such an extension, including that a qualified cord blood bank demonstrate a superior ability to satisfy the requirements of such Program and achieve the overall goals for which the contract was awarded. Redefines the term "first-degree relative" to exclude a parent. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2011-FY2015 for the collection or maintenance of cord blood. Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise the requirements of the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program to: (1) require studies and projects under such Program to include exploring novel approaches or incentives to expand the number of cord blood unit collection sites partnering with federally-supported cord blood banks; and (2) revise privacy provisions to protect the privacy of patients and donors in accordance with federal and state law. Reauthorizes appropriations for such Program for FY2011-FY2015. Directs the Comptroller General to submit a report to the relevant congressional committees and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) that reviews studies, demonstration programs, and outreach efforts to increase  cord blood unit donation and collection.

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 9 August 2010

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Amends the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005 to revise the National Cord Blood Inventory Program, including to: (1) remove the cap of 150,000 new units of cord blood to be made available for transplantation under the Program; and (2) require an application under the Program to include a  plan for, and demonstration of, ongoing measurable progress toward achieving self-sufficiency of cord blood unit collection and banking operations. Extends financial support provided under the Program for an additional five years. (Current law allows financial support for a maximum of ten years.) Sets forth requirements for such an extension, including that a qualified cord blood bank demonstrate a superior ability to satisfy the requirements of such Program and achieve the overall goals for which the contract was awarded. Redefines the term "first-degree relative" to exclude a parent. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2011-FY2015 for the collection or maintenance of cord blood. Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise the requirements of the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program to: (1) require studies and projects under such Program to include exploring novel approaches or incentives to expand the number of cord blood unit collection sites partnering with federally-supported cord blood banks; and (2) revise privacy provisions to protect the privacy of patients and donors in accordance with federal and state law. Reauthorizes appropriations for such Program for FY2011-FY2015. Directs the Comptroller General to submit a report to the relevant congressional committees and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) that reviews studies, demonstration programs, and outreach efforts to increase  cord blood unit donation and collection.

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Amends the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005 to revise the National Cord Blood Inventory Program, including to: (1) remove the cap of 150,000 new units of cord blood to be made available for transplantation under the Program; and (2) require an application under the Program to include a  plan for, and demonstration of, ongoing measurable progress toward achieving self-sufficiency of cord blood unit collection and banking operations. Extends financial support provided under the Program for an additional five years. (Current law allows financial support for a maximum of ten years.) Sets forth requirements for such an extension, including that a qualified cord blood bank demonstrate a superior ability to satisfy the requirements of such Program and achieve the overall goals for which the contract was awarded. Redefines the term "first-degree relative" to exclude a parent. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2011-FY2015 for the collection or maintenance of cord blood. Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise the requirements of the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program to: (1) require studies and projects under such Program to include exploring novel approaches or incentives to expand the number of cord blood unit collection sites partnering with federally-supported cord blood banks; and (2) revise privacy provisions to protect the privacy of patients and donors in accordance with federal and state law. Reauthorizes appropriations for such Program for FY2011-FY2015. Directs the Comptroller General to submit a report to the relevant congressional committees and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) that reviews studies, demonstration programs, and outreach efforts to increase  cord blood unit donation and collection.

Excluding Abortion Coverage from Health Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Excluding Abortion Coverage from Health Reform Act - Amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to prohibit federal funds from being to used to cover any part of the costs of any health plan that includes coverage of abortion services. (Currently, federal funds cannot be used for abortion services and plans receiving federal funds must keep federal funds segregated from any funds for abortion services.) Requires any qualified health benefit plan offered through an Exchange that includes coverage for abortions to also offer a qualified health benefit plan through the Exchange that is identical in every respect except that it does not cover abortions.

Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop, implement, and update a plan for the prevention, control, and medical management of hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, and the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), to implement programs to increase awareness and enhance knowledge and understanding of hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC, to: (1) support the integration of voluntary hepatitis B and hepatitis C testing programs into existing clinical and public health programs; (2) provide increased support to Adult Viral Hepatitis Coordinators to integrate prevention and control activities into existing health programs; (3) support the establishment of a hepatitis B and hepatitis C surveillance program; and (4) report on seroprevalence studies and the impact of hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Directs the Secretary to support state, local, territorial, and tribal efforts to: (1) provide counseling and education on hepatitis B and hepatitis C; (2) expand the current vaccination programs for hepatitis B; and (3) provide referrals for treatment to individuals with hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC, the Director of the National Cancer Institute, and the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to conduct research on hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to, or enter into cooperative agreements with, governmental and nonprofit entities that have special expertise relating to hepatitis B and hepatitis C to support prevention activities. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of SAMHSA, to develop educational materials and intervention strategies to reduce the risks of hepatitis among substance abusers and individuals with mental illness.

Health Information Technology Extension for Behavioral Health Services Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Health Information Technology Extension for Behavioral Health Services Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to expand the definition of "health care provider" for purposes of health information technology provisions to include a behavioral or mental health professional, a substance abuse professional, a psychiatric hospital, a community mental health center, a mental health treatment facility, and a substance abuse treatment facility. Adds community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, behavioral and mental health professionals, substance abuse professionals, mental health treatment facilities, and substance abuse treatment facilities to the list of entities with priority for receiving direct assistance from regional extension centers to effectively adopt, implement, and utilize health information technology. Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to include qualified clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, mental health treatment facilities, and substance abuse treatment facilities within the health professionals, hospitals, and Medicaid providers eligible for incentive payments for the meaningful use of certified EHR technology. Applies Medicare hospital market basket adjustments for such incentives applicable to inpatient hospitals to psychiatric hospitals. Makes this Act effective as if included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. 

Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require personnel who perform or plan the technical component of either medical imaging examinations or radiation therapy procedures for medical purposes to possess, effective January 1, 2013: (1) certification in each medical imaging or radiation therapy modality and service they plan or perform from a certification organization designated by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS); or (2) state licensure or certification where such services and modalities are within the scope of practice as defined by the state for such profession and where the requirements for licensure, certification, or registration meet or exceed the standards established by the Secretary. Exempts physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants from the requirements of this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish minimum standards for personnel who perform, plan, evaluate, or verify patient dose for medical imaging examinations or radiation therapy procedures; (2) establish a program for designating certification organizations after consideration of specified criteria; (3) provide a process for individuals whose training or experience are determined to be equal to, or in excess of, those of a graduate of an accredited educational program in that specialty to demonstrate that their experience meets the educational standards for qualified personnel in their imaging modality or radiation therapy procedures; and (4) publish a list of approved accrediting bodies for such certification organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to develop alternative standards for rural or health professional shortage areas as appropriate to ensure access to quality medical imaging. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to allow Medicare payment for medical imaging and radiation therapy services, only if the examination or procedure is planned or performed by an individual who meets this Act's requirements.

Electronic Health Record Incentives for Multi-Campus Hospitals Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Electronic Health Record Incentives for Multi-Campus Hospitals Act of 2010 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA), with respect to payments to hospitals for inpatient hospital services, to prescribe a special rule for applying Medicare electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments, at the election of a qualified main hospital, to its remote inpatient locations. Prohibits administrative or judicial review of: (1) the methodology and standards for determining a remote inpatient location, a qualified remote inpatient location, a component facility, a qualified component facility, a main provider, and a qualified main provider, and which such locations, facilities, and providers are qualified; and (2) the methodology and standards for the election in connection with such special rule. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to set forth a special rule for applying Medicaid EHR incentive payments, at the election of a qualified main hospital, to its remote locations.

Supporting Adoptive Families Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Supporting Adoptive Families Act - Amends part B (Child and Family Services) of title IV of the Social Security Act to make it a purpose of the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Child Welfare Services Program to promote efforts to prevent children from entering the foster care system through the provision of pre- and post-adoptive support services. Extends adoption promotion and support services to those designed to support adoptions from other countries as well as domestic adoptions. Specifies related pre- and post-adoptive support services. Amends SSA title IV part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) to revise requirements for state expenditures for adoption support services. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to award grants or cooperative agreements to eligible entities to develop and implement state-sponsored statewide or tribal post-adoption mental health service programs for all adopted children. Amends SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) to direct the Secretary, as part of the child support and paternity data collection system, to promulgate final regulations requiring the states to collect and report information regarding children adopted within the United States or from other countries who enter into state custody as a result of the disruption of a placement for adoption or the dissolution of an adoption.

Economic Growth and Jobs Protection Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Economic Growth and Jobs Protection Act of 2010 - Repeals the provision in the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 that provides for the inclusion of net investment income in the Medicare taxable base and imposes a 3.8% tax on such income, beginning in 2013.

A resolution designating September 9, 2010, as "National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day".

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Designates September 9, 2010, as National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day. Calls upon the people of the United States to observe a moment of reflection on the ninth hour of September 9, 2010, to remember that during the nine months of pregnancy a woman should not consume alcohol.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 2010

Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Enhancement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) establish the National Pulmonary Fibrosis Advisory Board; (2) develop a system to collect data on pulmonary fibrosis and other interstitial lung diseases; and (3) establish the National PF Registry. Requires the Secretary, in developing the Registry, to: (1) expand and coordinate existing data and surveillance systems, surveys, registries, and other federal public health and environmental infrastructure; and (2) provide for research access to pulmonary fibrosis data. Directs the Secretary to ensure that epidemiological and other types of information are made available to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Requires the Director of CDC to prepare the National Pulmonary Fibrosis Education and Awareness Plan, which shall: (1) focus on strategies to increase public education and awareness of pulmonary fibrosis; (2) address the need for new physician education strategies to improve diagnosis and treatment standards; and (3) assess and monitor the costs of pulmonary fibrosis and its burden on patients and families. Encourages the Director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to expand, intensify, and coordinate Institute pulmonary fibrosis research activities.

Creating Hope Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 2010

Creating Hope Act of 2010 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise the priority review voucher program for tropical diseases to: (1) include rare pediatric diseases; (2) allow unlimited transfers of vouchers under the program; and (3) require a sponsor intending to use a voucher to notify the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) at least 90 days (currently, 365 days) before submission of the application. Revises provisions regarding the priority review user fee, including to make it payable upon notification of the Secretary of intent to use the voucher. Authorizes the Secretary, upon request of the manufacturer or sponsor of a new drug, to designate that a new drug is: (1) for a rare pediatric disease; and (2) an innovative treatment. Requires the Secretary to deem a rare pediatric disease product application to be incomplete if it does not contain a description of the sponsor's plan to market the product in the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to refuse to issue a priority review voucher upon the approval of a rare pediatric disease application if the Secretary finds that the sponsor lacks a good faith intention to produce and distribute the product. Requires sponsors of applications under the priority review voucher program to report to the Secretary within five years after the approval of the application on the demand and distribution of the product within the United States.

Positive Aging Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 2010

Positive Aging Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make grants to public and private nonprofit entities to: (1) demonstrate ways of integrating mental health services for older adults into primary care settings; and (2) support the establishment and maintenance of interdisciplinary geriatric mental health outreach teams in community settings where older adults reside or receive social services. Requires the Director of the Center for Mental Health Services to designate a Deputy Director for Older Adult Mental Health Services to develop and implement initiatives to address the mental health needs of older adults. Includes representatives of older adults or their families and geriatric mental health professionals on the Advisory Council for the Center. Directs the Secretary to give special consideration to providing treatment for older adults with substance abuse disorders when developing program priorities for addressing priority substance abuse treatment needs of regional and national significance. Requires state plans for community mental health services grants to describe: (1) the state's outreach to, and services for, older individuals, individuals who are homeless, and individuals living in rural areas; and (2) how community-based services will be provided to these individuals.

Direct Care Workforce Empowerment Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2010

Direct Care Workforce Empowerment Act - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to exempt from minimum wage and maximum hour requirements any employee employed on a casual basis in domestic service employment to provide companionship services for individuals who because of disability (or because of age or infirmity, as under current law) are unable to care for themselves. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish: (1) a direct care workforce monitoring program; and (2) a National Advisory Council on the Direct Care Workforce. Directs the Secretary to award three-year grants to states and other eligible entities to improve the recruitment, retention, and education of the direct care workforce.

Drug Safety and Accountability Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2010

Drug Safety and Accountability Act of 2010 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to require each registered drug producer to have in effect and implement a quality management plan to ensure the quality and safety of: (1) each drug; (2) each active and inactive ingredient of each drug; and (3) materials used in the manufacture of each active ingredient. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to order an establishment to promptly revise its quality management plan in response to a significant threat to public health. Requires each registered drug producer to report on each producer, manufacturer, distributor, and shipper involved in the production of a drug or the production or transport of the active ingredients of a drug. Requires the Secretary to develop and maintain information systems to track and assess every establishment that is involved in the manufacturing, preparation, propagation, compounding, or processing of a drug or active ingredient of a drug. Deems a drug to be adulterated if it was produced in an establishment that does not comply with the requirements of this Act. Gives the Secretary authority to: (1) order an immediate cessation of distribution, or a recall, of a drug; and (2) administer oaths and issue subpoenas. Revises provisions regarding civil penalties for FFDCA violations related to drugs for human use, including to consider each day a violation continues to be a separate violation. Authorizes the Secretary to share information subject to a trade secret exemption with: (1) other federal, state, or local agencies, foreign government agencies, and relevant international organizations; and (2) the public, as necessary to protect the public health. Sets forth whistleblower protection provisions.

A resolution designating September 13, 2010, as "National Celiac Disease Awareness Day".

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2010

Designates September 13, 2010, as National Celiac Disease Awareness Day.