Healthcare

Veterans Right-To-Know Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2002

Veterans Right-To-Know Act of 2002 - Requires the Secretary of Defense to identify each developmental or operational test of the Department of Defense (DOD) involving chemical or biological weapons, or defense against such weapons, in which military personnel or civilians were or may have been exposed to actual or simulated hazardous agents, with or without their knowledge or consent. Requires the Comptroller General to establish within the General Accounting Office an Oversight Working Group on Biological and Chemical Testing to: (1) review DOD chemical and biological test activities that involved exposure to military personnel or civilians; (2) report to Congress information concerning Project SHAD (DOD tests to evaluate the effectiveness of shipboard detection and protective procedures against chemical and biological warfare agents) and Project 112 (DOD tests in and around Alaska using chemical and biological agents); (3) continue to review DOD investigations of any other cases of DOD chemical or biological testing; and (4) identify veterans and veterans organizations with significant information involving such test projects and seek to have that information made available to the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) notify any veterans who may have been exposed, with instructions on how to receive a health care evaluation; and (2) review declassified material to determine any lasting health effects that may have been incurred by exposed veterans.

TRICARE Retirees Opportunity Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

The TRICARE Retirees Opportunity Act of 2002 - Amends part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) waive the Medicare part B late enrollment penalty for military retirees who enroll by December 31, 2003; and (2) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a special enrollment period in the case of any such individual eligible to enroll, but who is not enrolled, under Medicare part B with such period to end on December 31, 2003.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress regarding Scleroderma.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

Calls for: (1) recognition of private organizations and health care providers for promoting awareness and research of scleroderma; (2) greater awareness of the symptoms of scleroderma and contributions to the fight against it; (3) the Government to promote awareness, to adequately fund scleroderma research projects, and continue to consider ways to improve the quality of health care services for scleroderma patients; (4) the National Institutes of Health to continue to play a leadership role in the fight against scleroderma; and (5) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to give priority to establishing a national epidemiological study to better track and gather information about scleroderma.

Veterans Right-To-Know Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

Veterans Right-To-Know Act of 2002 - Requires the Secretary of Defense to identify each developmental or operational test of the Department of Defense (DOD) involving chemical or biological weapons, or defense against such weapons, in which military personnel or civilians were or may have been exposed to actual or simulated hazardous agents, with or without their knowledge or consent. Requires the Comptroller General to establish within the General Accounting Office an Oversight Working Group on Biological and Chemical Testing to: (1) review DOD chemical and biological test activities that involved exposure to military personnel or civilians; (2) report to Congress information concerning Project SHAD (DOD tests to evaluate the effectiveness of shipboard detection and protective procedures against chemical and biological warfare agents) and Project 112 (DOD tests in and around Alaska using chemical and biological agents); (3) continue to review DOD investigations of any other cases of DOD chemical or biological testing; and (4) identify veterans and veterans organizations with significant information involving such test projects and seek to have that information made available to the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) notify any veterans who may have been exposed, with instructions on how to receive a health care evaluation; and (2) review declassified material to determine any lasting health effects that may have been incurred by exposed veterans.

Veterans' New Fitzsimons Health Care Facilities Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

Veterans' New Fitzsimons Health Care Facilities Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out major medical facility projects at the site of the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, including inpatient and outpatient facilities providing acute, sub-acute, primary, and long-term care services.

Liver Research Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

Liver Research Enhancement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the National Center on Liver Disease Research in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Establishes the Liver Disease Research Advisory Board to help the Director of the Center develop the Liver Disease Research Action Plan identifying scientific opportunities and priorities of liver disease research. Requires the Director to coordinate the Plan's implementation by the national research institutes, which shall allocate adequate funds for same.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Act - Requires the Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases to expand activities addressing inflammatory bowel disease, emphasizing genetic, animal model, and clinical research. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to establish a national program of prevention and epidemiology concerning such disease, addressing its prevalence and public and professional awareness. Directs the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies of Science to study public and private insurance standards for coverage of inflammatory bowel therapies. Directs the General Accounting Office to study problems inflammatory bowel disease patients have applying for disability insurance benefits under the Social Security Act.

Melina Bill

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

United States Toxic Mold Safety and Protection Act of 2002 or the Melina Bill - Directs: (1) the Centers for Disease Control, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to jointly study the health effects of indoor mold growth and toxic mold; (2) EPA to promulgate standards for preventing, detecting, and remediating indoor mold growth; and (3) EPA, NIH, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to sponsor related public education programs. Directs: (1) rental property lessors to conduct annual indoor mold inspections; and (2) the Secretary of HUD and the Administrator of EPA to promulgate mold hazard disclosure regulations with respect to housing offered for sale or lease. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish, with respect to indoor mold in public housing, inspection requirements for existing housing and construction standards for new housing; and (2) establish model construction standards and techniques for mold prevention in new buildings. Establishes an indoor/toxic mold inspection requirement with respect to federally made or insured mortgages. Amends the National Cooperative Research and Production Act of 1993 to provide for industry standards development with respect to building products that are designed to retard mold development. Directs the Administrator of EPA to make grants to States and local governments for mold growth remediation efforts in buildings owned or leased by such governments, including schools and multifamily dwellings. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an annual tax credit for 60 percent of non-reimbursed mold inspection and remediation expenses ($50,000 annual maximum) paid or incurred by a taxpayer. Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to: (1) establish and carry out a toxic mold insurance program, with priority for one-to-four-family residential properties; and (2) establish in the Treasury a National Toxic Mold Hazard Insurance Fund. Authorizes the Director to assist qualifying insurers to form a federally-assisted toxic mold hazard insurance pool. Provides for Federal operation of such program under specified circumstances. Authorizes State waiver of income, resource, and other Medicaid requirements for an individual whose health has been adversely affected by toxic mold exposure, and who lacks adequate medical insurance coverage.

To provide for equity in payments under the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2002

Gives discretion to the Secretary of Health and Human Services to modify reimbursement formulas under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to ensure that Medicare payments are made to providers equitably.

Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2002

Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act of 2002 - Prohibits the President from regulating or prohibiting, directly or indirectly, travel to or from Cuba by U.S. citizens or legal residents, or any of specified transactions incident to such travel. Declares that: (1) this prohibition does not authorize the importation into the United States of any goods for personal consumption acquired in Cuba; and (2) the restrictions on authority contained in this Act do not apply in a case in which the United States is at war with Cuba, armed hostilities between the two countries are in progress, or there is imminent danger to the public health or the physical safety of U.S. travelers.

Medicare Rx Drug Benefit and Discount Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2002

Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) under which each individual who is entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or eligible to enroll under Medicare part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance) is entitled to obtain qualified prescription drug coverage. Outlines standard coverage benefit packages for FY 2005. Includes for the standard package a monthly premium of $25, an annual deductible of $100, a coinsurance of 20 percent and an annual out-of-pocket spending limit of $2,000. Directs the Secretary to negotiate fair prices with pharmaceutical manufacturers. Provides for accelerated generic drug competition. Amends SSA title XVIII part C (Medicare+Choice) with respect to: (1) inclusion of the costs of certain military services to Medicare-eligible beneficiaries in the calculation of Medicare+Choice payment rates; (2) specialized Medicare+Choice plans for special needs beneficiaries; and (3) continuous open enrollment and disenrollment at any time. Revises requirements for Medicare: (1) part A concerning rural health care, inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility services, and hospices; (2) part B concerning physicians services and other services; and (3) part A and B concerning home health services and direct graduate medical education. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) with respect to certain Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) allotment adjustments and the Q-I1 program. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to add requirements for interstate Internet sellers of prescription drugs. Establishes within the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health the Office of Rare Diseases. Amends the Public Health Services Act with respect to promotion of the pharmacist profession.

Expressing the sense of the Congress that there should be established a National Sarcoidosis Awareness Day, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2002

Urges the establishment of a National Sarcoidosis Awareness Day on September 24, 2002, to encourage public education on sarcoidosis and support research for better treatment options and a cure.

Richard H. Carmona, of Arizona, to be Medical Director in the Regular Corps of the Public Health Service, subject to qualifications therefor as provided by law and regulations, and to be Surgeon General of the Public Health Service for a term of four years, vice David Satcher, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 25 June 2002

A bill to improve access to health care medically underserved areas.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2002

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to increase the fiscal year number of foreign residence waivers that a State may request for foreign medical graduate aliens working in U.S. health shortage areas. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Technical Corrections Act of 1994 to make such program permanent.

Consumer Access to Prescription Drugs Improvement Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2002

Consumer Access to Prescription Drugs Improvement Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to establish the Pharmaceutical Advisory Committee as part of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission. Directs such Committee to review payment policies for drugs under the Medicare and Medicaid programs and make payment policy recommendations, including considering the effects of direct-to-consumer marketing and the use and barriers to use of generic drugs. Focuses studies and requires guidance on physicians' and patients' understanding of the relative efficacy and effectiveness of drugs and biological products, particularly generic versions. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the deposit into a Drug Reimbursement Fund of revenues earned by a patent holder during a period when a competitor was wrongfully enjoined from marketing a generic version. Sets forth notice and publication requirements for agreements reached by a brand name drug company and a generic drug applicant concerning challenges to a patent certification. Amends the title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to include coverage for all oral anticancer drugs, regardless of the method of administration, under the Medicare current drug benefit. Requires the Medicaid Drug Use Review Program to provide for the distribution of generic drug samples of covered outpatient drugs to prescribers. Addresses the relationship between prices charged for inpatient drugs at certain public hospitals and the best price exemptions established for the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. Requires that the national drug code for each drug be made available upon the publication of the upper payment limits for multiple source drugs under Medicaid.

Health Insurance Access Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2002

Health Insurance Access Act of 2002 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to create, for qualified small businesses (up to 50 employees) providing health insurance coverage to all qualified employees, an employee health insurance expenses credit of up to 50 percent of qualified employee health insurance expenses. Includes with the definition of employee a leased employee and an employee reasonably expected to receive at least $5,000 of compensation annually. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program to award grants to eligible entities to facilitate the development, establishment, and capacity of State-based or State-directed health plan purchasing alliances to create greater access to lower-cost health benefits for small employers. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program to award grants of up to $ 1 million to each State that has not created, as of enactment, a qualified high risk pool for the State's costs of creation and initial operation of such a pool. Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to provide optional coverage for parents with Medicaid eligible children and low-income pregnant women. Provides for the automatic enrollment of eligible children upon birth. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide Medicare coverage for an individual between the ages of 62 to 65 who would be eligible for benefits if such individual were 65 and is not eligible for other group health insurance.

Expressing the sense of Congress regarding the awareness of and treatment for kidney disease.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2002

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) national and community organizations should be recognized for their work in promoting awareness of kidney disease; (2) health care providers should continue their efforts toward early diagnosis of such disease; and (3) the Federal Government should work to increase kidney disease awareness and research funding and to improve access to detection and treatment services.

Homeland Security Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2002

Homeland Security Act of 2002 - Establishes a Department of Homeland Security (HLS), as an executive department of the United States, headed by a Secretary of Homeland Security who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. States that the primary mission of HLS is to: (1) prevent terrorist attacks within the United States; (2) reduce the vulnerability of the United States to terrorism; and (3) minimize the damage, and assist in the recovery, from terrorist attacks that occur within the United States. Includes as HLS's primary responsibilities: (1) information analysis and infrastructure protection; (2) chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and related countermeasures; (3) border and transportation security; (4) emergency preparedness and response; and (5) coordination (including the provision of training and equipment) with other executive agencies, with State and local government personnel, agencies, and authorities, with the private sector, and with other entities. Places responsibility with HLS for carrying out other functions of entities transferred to it as provided by law. Creates: (1) a Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, who shall be the Secretary's first assistant for purposes of details; (2) an Under Secretary for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection; (3) an Under Secretary for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Countermeasures; (4) an Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security; (5) an Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response; (6) an Under Secretary for Management; and (7) not more than six Assistant Secretaries. Establishes an Inspector General (to be appointed under the Inspector General Act of 1978), and enlists the Commandant of the Coast Guard and the Director of the Secret Service as well, to assist the Secretary in the performance of his functions. Includes as the primary responsibilities of the Under Secretary for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection: (1) receiving and analyzing law enforcement information, intelligence, and other information in order to understand the nature and scope of the terrorist threat to the American homeland and to detect and identify potential threats of terrorism within the United States; (2) comprehensively assessing the vulnerabilities of the key resources and critical infrastructures in the United States; (3) integrating relevant information, intelligence analyses, and vulnerability assessments (whether provided or produced by the Department or others) to identify protective priorities and support protective measures by the Department, other executive agencies, State and local government personnel, agencies, and authorities, the private sector, and other entities; (4) developing a comprehensive national plan for securing the key resources and critical infrastructures in the United States; (5) taking or seeking to effect necessary measures to protect the key resources and critical infrastructures in the United States; (6) administering the Homeland Security Advisory System, exercising primary responsibility for public threat advisories, and providing specific warning information to State and local government personnel, agencies, and authorities, the private sector, other entities, and the public, as well as advice about appropriate protective actions and countermeasures; and (7) reviewing, analyzing, and making recommendations for improvements in the policies and procedures governing the sharing of law enforcement, intelligence, and other information relating to homeland security within the Federal government and between it and State and local government personnel, agencies, and authorities. Transfers to the Secretary the functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the following entities: (1) the National Infrastructure Protection Center of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (other than the Computer Investigations and Operations Section); (2) the National Communications System of the Department of Defense; (3) the Critical Infrastructure Assurance Office of the Department of Commerce; (4) the Computer Security Division of the National Institute of Standards and Technology; (5) the National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center of the Department of Energy; and (6) the Federal Computer Incident Response Center of the General Services Administration. Gives the Secretary access to all reports, assessments, and analytical information relating to threats of terrorism in the United States and to other areas of HLS responsibility, and to all information concerning infrastructure or other vulnerabilities of the United States to terrorism, whether or not it has been analyzed, that may be collected, possessed, or prepared by any executive agency, except as otherwise directed by the President. Requires all executive agencies promptly to provide to the Secretary: (1) all reports, assessments, and analytical information relating to threats of terrorism in the United States and to other areas of HLS responsibility; (2) all information concerning infrastructure or other vulnerabilities of the United States to terrorism, whether or not it has been analyzed; (3) all information relating to significant and credible threats of terrorism in the United States, whether or not it has been analyzed, if the President has granted the Secretary such access; and (4) such other material as the President may further provide. Requires the Secretary to ensure: (1) that any such material is protected from unauthorized disclosure and handled and used only for the performance of official duties; and (2) that any shared intelligence information shall be transmitted, retained, and disseminated consistent with the authority of the Director of Central Intelligence to protect intelligence sources and methods, or appropriate similar authorities of the Attorney General concerning sensitive law enforcement information. Exempts from the Privacy Act any information in the Department's possession provided voluntarily by non-Federal entities or individuals with respect to infrastructure vulnerabilities or other vulnerabilities to terrorism. Includes as the primary responsibilities of the Under Secretary for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Countermeasures: (1) securing the people, infrastructures, property, resources, and systems in the United States from acts of terrorism involving chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear weapons or other emerging threats; (2) conducting a national scientific research and development (R&D) program to support the mission of HLS; (3) establishing priorities for, directing, funding, and conducting national research, development, and procurement of technology and systems for preventing the importation of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and related weapons and material, and for detecting, preventing, protecting against, and responding to terrorist attacks that involve such weapons or material; and (4) establishing guidelines for State and local government efforts to develop and implement countermeasures to threats of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear terrorism, and other emerging terrorist threats. Transfers to the Secretary the functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the following entities: (1) the select agent registration enforcement programs and activities of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); (2) the National Bio-Weapons Defense Analysis Center of the Department of Defense; and (4) the Plum Island Animal Disease Center of the Department of Agriculture. Transfers to the Secretary the following programs and activities of the Department of Energy: (1) the chemical and biological national security and supporting programs and activities of the non-proliferation and verification R&D program; (2) the nuclear smuggling programs and activities, and other programs and activities directly related to homeland security, within the proliferation detection program of the non-proliferation and verification R&D program; (3) the nuclear assessment program and activities of the assessment, detection, and cooperation program of the international materials protection and cooperation program; (4) the energy security and assurance program and activities; (5) certain life sciences activities of the biological and environmental research program related to microbial pathogens; (6) the Environmental Measurements Laboratory; and (7) the advanced scientific computing research program and activities, and the intelligence program and activities, at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Directs the Secretary to carry out his civilian human health-related biological, biomedical, and infectious disease defense R&D (including vaccine R&D) responsibilities, with authority to set priorities, through HHS (including the Public Health Service), under agreements with the Secretary of HHS. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer funds to the Secretary of HHS in connection with such agreements. Provides that nothing in this Act, except as specifically provided, shall confer upon the Secretary any authority to engage in warfighting, the military defense of the United States, or other traditional military activities. Includes as the primary responsibilities of the Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security: (1) preventing the entry of terrorists and the instruments of terrorism into the United States;(2) securing the borders, territorial waters, ports, terminals, waterways, and air, land, and sea transportation systems of the United States, including managing and coordinating governmental activities at ports of entry; (3) administering the immigration and naturalization laws of the United States, including establishing rules for the granting of visas, parole, or other forms of permission to enter the United States to individuals who are not citizens or lawful permanent residents; (4) administering Federal customs laws; and (5) in carrying out the foregoing responsibilities, ensuring the speedy, orderly, and efficient flow of lawful traffic and commerce. Transfers to the Secretary the functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the following entities: (1) the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury; (2) the Immigration and Naturalization Service of the Department of Justice; (3) the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture; (4) the Coast Guard of the Department of Transportation, which shall be maintained as a distinct entity within HLS; (5) the Transportation Security Administration of the Department of Transportation, including related functions of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security; and (6) the Federal Protective Service of the General Services Administration. Grants the Secretary: (1) exclusive authority, through the Secretary of State, to issue regulations with respect to, administer, and enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act and all other immigration and nationality laws relating to the functions of diplomatic and consular officers of the United States in connection with the granting or refusal of visas; and (2) authority to confer or impose upon any officer or employee of the United States, with the consent of the executive agency under whose jurisdiction such officer or employee is serving, any of these specified functions. Authorizes the Secretary of State to refuse a visa to an alien if the Secretary of State deems such refusal necessary or advisable in the interests of the United States. Includes as the primary responsibilities of the Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response: (1) helping to ensure the preparedness of emergency response providers for terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies; (2) establishing standards for the Nuclear Incident Response Team, conducting joint and other exercises and training; (3) providing the Federal government's response to terrorist attacks and major disasters; (4) aiding recovery from terrorist attacks and major disasters; (5) building a comprehensive national incident management system with Federal, State, and local governments to respond to such attacks and disasters; (6) consolidating existing Federal government emergency response plans into a single, coordinated national response plan; and (7) developing comprehensive programs for interoperative communications technology, and their acquisition by emergency response providers. Transfers to the Secretary the functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the following entities: (1) the Federal Emergency Management Agency; (2) the Office for Domestic Preparedness of the Office of Justice Programs; (3) the National Domestic Preparedness Office of the FBI; (4) the Domestic Emergency Support Teams of the Department of Justice; (5) the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Health Emergency Preparedness (including the Office of Emergency Preparedness, the National Disaster Medical System, and the Metropolitan Medical Response System) of HHS; and (6) the Strategic National Stockpile of HHS. Provides that at the direction of the Secretary (in connection with an actual or threatened terrorist attack, major disaster, or other emergency), the Nuclear Incident Response Team (including certain entities of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy) shall operate as an organizational unit of HLS under the Secretary's authority and control. Directs the Secretary to carry out through HHS (including the Public Health Service), under agreements with the Secretary of HHS, all biological, chemical, radiological, and nuclear preparedness-related construction, renovation, and enhancement of security for research and development or other facilities owned or occupied by HHS. Directs the Secretary to carry out specified HHS public health-related activities assisting State and local government, non-Federal public and private health care facilities and providers, and public and non-profit health and educational facilities to prepare for, prevent, and respond to biological, chemical, radiological, and nuclear events and public health emergencies, by means including direct services, technical assistance, communications and surveillance, education and training activities, and grants. Places the HLS Inspector General under the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary with respect to audits or investigations, or the issuance of subpoenas, that require access to information concerning various specified matters including intelligence, counterintelligence, or counterterrorism matters. Transfers to the Secretary the functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Secret Service, which shall be maintained as a distinct entity within the Department. Authorizes the Secretary, in regulations prescribed jointly with the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, to establish a human resources management system for the organizational units of HLS which shall be flexible, contemporary, and grounded in the public employment principles of merit and fitness. Grants the Secretary limited authority to: (1) reorganize HLS by allocating or reallocating functions within HLS and by establishing, consolidating, altering, or discontinuing organizational units within HLS; and (2) transfer funding between appropriations accounts upon 15 days notice to congressional appropriations committees. Establishes in the Department of Defense a National Bio-Weapons Defense Analysis Center whose mission is to develop countermeasures to potential attacks by terrorists using weapons of mass destruction.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for a Medicare prescription drug benefit.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) under which each individual entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance) is also entitled to obtain qualified prescription drug coverage by electing to enroll: (1) in a plan that provides qualified prescription drug coverage under SSA title XVIII part C (Medicare+Choice) (M+C); or (2) in a prescription drug plan (PDP) under part D if the individual is not enrolled in a M+C plan providing qualified prescription drug coverage. Outlines standard coverage benefit packages for FY 2005. Includes for the standard package an annual deductible of $250, and requires insurers to cover 80 percent of enrollees drug costs from $251 to $1,000, then 50 percent of such costs between $1,001 and the initial coverage limit of $2,000. Requires enrollees to cover all costs between $2,001 and $4,500, and Medicare to cover the entire cost once the beneficiary has reached the $4,500 catastrophic limit. Prescribes a formula for adjustment of the deductible and thresholds for years after 2005. Establishes a competitive bidding process for negotiating the terms and conditions of PDP sponsors. Provides for full premium subsidy and reduction of cost-sharing for individuals with incomes below 150 percent of the Federal poverty level. Establishes the Medicare Prescription Drug Trust Fund in the Treasury for use in such new program. Amends SSA title XVIII part C to: (1) provide for the offering of qualified prescription drug coverage under M+C; and (2) create a competitive bidding program for M+C organizations. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Resources to establish a program to: (1) endorse prescription drug discount care programs that meet the requirements of this Act; and (2) make available to Medicare beneficiaries information regarding such endorsed programs.

To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to revise disproportionate share hospital payments under the Medicaid Program.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise the formula for disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments under the Medicaid program.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve payments for home health services and for direct graduate medical education, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to: (1) eliminate the 15 percent reduction in payment rates under the prospective payment system for home health services; and (2) modify payment adjustments, changing to a calendar year update, and increasing payments. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) establish and appoint an OASIS Task Force to examine the data collection and reporting requirements under the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) required under the Balanced Budget Act of 1997; and (2) review the standards used, by fiscal intermediaries in paying for home health services under Medicare, in allowing infrequent or short duration absences from the home for individuals eligible to receive such services. Amends SSA title XVIII to extend the update limitation on certain high cost programs. Prescribes a formula for the redistribution of unused full-time equivalent resident positions in the fields of allopathic and osteopathic medicine for a hospital with respect to the determination of direct graduate medical education costs. Requires the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to examine the budget consequences of its recommendations before making them. Directs the Secretary to establish demonstration projects for: (1) disease management for certain Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes; and (2) medical adult day care services.

To amend the Public Health Service Act to establish health professions programs regarding practice of pharmacy.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promote the pharmacist profession through public health service announcements, including grants for State and local advertising campaigns. Directs the Secretary to establish a demonstration project to enhance the participation of pharmacists in the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program through the provision of medication therapy management services. Requires participants to follow Program requirements but excludes them from consideration when health professional shortage areas are designated. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants or contracts to qualifying schools of pharmacy (those requiring a pharmacy services clinical rotation) for computer-based systems for pharmaceutical education.

To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish requirements with respect to the sale of, or the offer to sell, prescription drugs through the Internet, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require each interstate Internet seller to comply with requirements of this Act with respect to the sale or offer of prescription drugs. Requires the seller to: (1) post visibly on its web site home page its street address, the States in which it is authorized as a pharmacy, certain prescriber information, and a statement it will dispense prescription drugs only upon a valid prescription; and (2) disclose such information to State licensing boards. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) engage in activities to educate the public about the dangers of purchasing prescription drugs from unlawful Internet sources; and (2) recommend to Congress the coordination of activities of Federal agencies regarding Internet sellers that operate from foreign countries with the activities of such foreign governments.

Health Benefits Claims Prompt Payment Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Health Benefits Claims Prompt Payment Act of 2002 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Internal Revenue Code, and the Public Health Service Act to require that group and individual health insurance coverage and group health plans provide for prompt payment for health benefits claims.

Pharmaceutical Fiscal Accountability Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Pharmaceutical Fiscal Accountability Act of 2002 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to treat certain subsequent certified abbreviated new drug applications as if they were the first such application and therefore entitled to a period of 180 day generic drug exclusivity. (Abbreviated new drug applications are filed where the new drugs uses or active ingredient(s) are the same as those for a previously approved drug, also known as a "listed drug.") Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health to support qualifying clinical research on the development of new drugs at designated small public or private entities. Emphasizes drug research which has the potential to make a significant contribution for the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of a disease which has not received significant Federal funding. Entitles the Director to five percent of the profits from sales during the patent period. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on the effects of: (1) Federal funding on the costs of research and the pricing of prescription drugs; and (2) pharmaceutical patent extensions and market exclusivity periods on delays in introducing generic versions.

To amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve payments for physicians' services and other outpatient services furnished under the Medicare Program, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise updates for physicians' services for 2003 through 2005. Mandates that the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission submit to Congress a described report on the effect of refinements to the practice expense component of payments for physicians' services in the case of services for which there are no physician work relative value units, after the transition to a full resource-based payment system in 2002. Provides that, for purposes of payment under the physician fee schedule, for physicians' services furnished during 2004, in no case may the work geographic index otherwise calculated be less than 0.985. Amends SSA title XVIII to replace provisions under Medicare part B for a limited number of demonstration projects for competitive acquisition of items and services with provisions for a permanent program for the establishment of programs for competitive acquisition of described items and services, including provisions for a demonstration project for application of competitive acquisition to clinical diagnostic laboratory tests. Substitutes a new phase-in methodology for the ambulance fee schedule amount portion of the phase-in and lengthens the phase-in schedule, including in such methodology adjustment in payment for certain long trips. Extends the moratorium on application of the therapy caps for an additional two years. Modifies the limitation on copayment amount for hospital outpatient department services. Provides for coverage of an initial preventive physical examination. Increases the composite rate 1.2 percent for renal dialysis services furnished in 2004. Amends BIPA (sic) to specify that the prohibition on exceptions to the composite rate would not apply to pediatric facilities that, as of October 1, 2002, do not have an exception rate as of such date. Defines "pediatric facility" as a renal facility at least 50 percent of whose patients are individuals under 18 years of age. Amends SSA title XVIII to exclude payment for screening mammography and unilateral and bilateral diagnostic mammography under the system for hospital outpatient services. Provides that for diagnostic mammography performed on or after January 1, 2004, for which payment is made under the physician fee schedule, the Secretary, based on the most recent cost data available, shall provide for an appropriate adjustment in the payment amount for the technical component of the diagnostic mammography.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to revitalize the Medicare+Choice Program, establish a Medicare+Choice competition program, and to improve payments to hospitals and other providers under part A of the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise the Medicare+Choice program, among other changes: (1) revising Medicare+Choice payment rates; (2) providing for specialized Medicare+Choice plans for special needs beneficiaries; (3) making coverage under Medicare+Choice medical savings account (MSA) plans permanent and eliminating the cap; (4) extending reasonable cost contracts; (5) creating a competitive bidding program for Medicare+Choice organizations; and (6) providing for establishment of competitive demonstration program. Makes a number of changes with regard to Medicare part A concerning inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility services, and hospices. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a demonstration project for the: (1) delivery of hospice care to Medicare beneficiaries in rural areas; and (2) use of recovery audit contractors under the Medicare Integrity Program.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to establish the Medicare Benefits Administration within the Department of Health and Human Services, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to establish within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the Medicare Benefits Administration, headed by a Medicare Benefits Administrator who shall carry out Medicare parts C (Medicare+Choice) and D (Miscellaneous) (sic) and provisions relating to the Medicare prescription drug discount card endorsement program. Directs the Secretary of HHS to establish within the Medicare Benefits Administration an Office of Beneficiary Assistance to coordinate functions relating to outreach and education of Medicare beneficiaries. Establishes within the Medicare Benefits Administration the Medicare Policy Advisory Board to advise, consult with, and make recommendations to the Administrator with respect to the administration of Medicare parts C and D. Directs the Administrator to establish a grant program to assist pharmacies in implementing the new prescription drug benefit under Medicare part D.

To amend the Public Health Service Act to provide for grants to health care providers to implement electronic prescription drug programs.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2002

Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to assist health care providers who prescribe drugs and biologicals in implementing electronic prescription programs under Medicare.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross income loan payments received under the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program established in the Public Health Service Act.

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2002

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income amounts received after December 31, 2001, as loan repayments under the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program established under the Public Health Service Act.

Animal Drug User Fee Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2002

Animal Drug User Fee Act of 2002 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to assess and collect fees for an animal drug or a supplemental animal drug application (if it requires safety or effectiveness data). Requires payment upon submission or the application will be considered incomplete and not accepted. Excepts from payment applications which were previously filed but withdrawn or not approved without a waiver or refund. Assesses annual fees on animal drug products, establishments, and sponsors. Establishes a fee schedule for FY 2003 through 2007, including total fee revenues for animal drug products, establishments, and sponsors. Adjusts fees to reflect inflation, review workload, operating reserves of carryover user fees (in the final year), and to maintain an equal balance of revenue from applications, products, establishments, and sponsors. Reduces or waives fees: (1) in excess of administrative costs; (2) that present a significant barrier to innovation; (3) to promote availability of drugs intended solely for minor uses or use in minor species; or (4) for first applications by a small business. Makes fees available for obligation only to the extent provided in advance in appropriations Acts. Offsets any excess fees against subsequent appropriations.

First Step to Long-Term Care Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2002

A First Step to Long-Term Care Act of 2002 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make Medicaid estate recovery optional. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare coverage of substitute adult day care services. Revises the definition of home-bound for purposes of determining eligibility for home health services under the Medicare program. Denies the Secretary of Health and Human Services any authority to disqualify an individual who requires technological assistance or the assistance of another individual to leave home from being considered confined to his home based on the frequency or duration of absences from home.

To clarify the effective date of the modification of treatment for retirement annuity purposes of part-time service before April 7, 1986, of certain Department of Veterans Affairs health-care professionals.

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2002

Makes January 23, 2002, the effective date of the modification of treatment for retirement annuity purposes of part-time service performed before April 7, 1986, by certain health-care professionals of the Veterans Health Administration pursuant to the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001.

Access for Afghan Women Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2002

Access for Afghan Women Act - Directs the United States to undertake a variety of measures to guard and enhance the quality of life of Afghan women, including: (1) incorporating the perspectives and advice of Afghan women's organizations and leaders in U.S. policymaking related to the governance of Afghanistan; (2) promoting the inclusion of a significant number of women in the Loya Jirga and future legislative bodies to ensure that women's human rights are included in any constitution for Afghanistan; (3) ensuring a significant portion of U.S. assistance is channeled to local and U.S.-based Afghan organizations, particularly Afghan women's organizations, and to high-quality comprehensive health care programs and education and training programs in Afghanistan; (4) training on the protection, rights, and the particular needs of women with respect to training for military and police forces in Afghanistan; and (5) ensuring that women refugees and those internally displaced in camps, urban areas, and villages are receiving food aid, health and medical services, and are free from sexual exploitation.

International AIDS Treatment and Prevention Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2002

International AIDS Treatment and Prevention Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (AID), to carry out HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and related activities in countries with or at risk for severe HIV epidemic. Requires particular attention to resource constrained countries and the use of indigenous capacity to the degree practicable. Authorizes support and assistance relating to: (1) HIV prevention services, including post exposure prophylaxis and a safe blood supply; (2) HIV/AIDS care and treatment services, linked to prevention services; (3) infrastructure and training, including the availability of health care facilities; and (4) HIV/AIDS treatment protocols. Creates grant programs for: (1) clinical education and training in the delivery of HIV/AIDS care and treatment services; (2) activities to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV; and (3) research on innovative microbicide concepts. Requires the coordination of Department of Health and Human Services programs by the Director of the Office of International Affairs. Extends the tuberculosis prevention program, to be coordinated with the activities under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Administrator of AID, to carry out workplace-based HIV/AIDS prevention and education programs in at-risk, constrained countries, with emphasis on protections against discrimination and creating supportive environments for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

To establish a National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicaid.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2002

Establishes the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicaid to: (1) review and analyze the long-term financial condition of the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social Security Act (SSA); (2) identify the factors that are causing, and the consequences of, increases in costs under the Medicaid program; (3) analyze potential policies that will ensure both the financial integrity of the Medicaid program and the provision of appropriate benefits; (4) make recommendations for establishing incentives and structures to promote enhanced efficiencies and ways of encouraging innovative State policies; (5) make recommendations for establishing the appropriate balance between benefits covered, payments to providers, State and Federal contributions and, where appropriate, recipient cost-sharing obligations; (6) make recommendations on the impact of promoting increased utilization of competitive, private enterprise models to contain program cost growth, through enhanced utilization of private plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and other methods currently being used to contain private sector health-care costs; (7) make recommendations on the financing of prescription drug benefits currently covered under Medicaid programs, including analysis of the current Federal manufacturer rebate program, its impact upon both private market prices as well as those paid by other government purchasers, recent State efforts to negotiate additional supplemental manufacturer rebates and the ability of pharmacy benefit managers to lower drug costs; (8) review and analyze such other matters relating to the Medicaid program as the Commission deems appropriate; and (9) analyze the impact of impending demographic changes upon Medicaid benefits, including long term care services, making recommendations for how best to appropriately divide State and Federal responsibilities for funding these benefits.

Cancer Survivorship Research and Quality of Life Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2002

Cancer Survivorship Research and Quality of Life Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to include demonstration, education, and other programs concerning cancer survivorship among the activities of the National Cancer Institute (Institute) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Requires the Director of NIH to: (1) expand and coordinate NIH activities related to cancer survivorship; and (2) establish an Office on Survivorship within the Institute. Creates the position of Associate Director for Survivorship. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, to: (1) study the health challenges associated with cancer survivorship and carry out projects and interventions; and (2) make grants for the monitoring and evaluation of cancer care and survivorship.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to make rural health care improvements under the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2002

Title III: Rural Health Care Improvements (sic) - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide that starting for discharges on or after October 1, 2002, hospitals (other than urban hospitals with a 100 or more beds or certain public hospitals) will receive payments based on a blend of their current disproportionate share (DSH) adjustment and the current DSH adjustment for large urban hospitals. Limits such new DSH adjustment. Provides that for discharges occurring: (1) during FY 2003, the average standardized amount for hospitals located other than in a large urban area shall be increased by half the difference between the average standardized amount for hospitals located in large urban areas for such fiscal year and such amount determined for other hospitals for such fiscal year; and (2) during FY 2004 and afterwards, the Secretary shall compute one standardized amount for all hospitals increased by the applicable percentage increase, and use this amount to pay all hospitals. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, after revising the market basket cost weights to reflect the most current data available, to establish a frequency for revising such weights in such market basket to reflect the most current data available more frequently than once every five years. Revises the critical access hospital program. Amends the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 to extend the ten percent additional payment for home health care furnished to beneficiaries residing in rural areas. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct a study for a report to Congress on differences in payment amounts under the physician fee schedule for physicians' services in different geographic areas. Amends SSA title XI to provide that any remuneration in the form of a contract, lease, grant, loan, or other 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 served by the health center.

Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Stability and Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Stability and Fairness Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize appropriations to the Combined Fund and the United Mine Workers of America 1992 Benefit Plan to: (1) pay any benefit or administrative costs of unassigned beneficiaries of the Combined Fund; (2) pay any benefit or administrative costs of unassigned beneficiaries of the 1992 UMWA Plan; and (3) eliminate any annual deficit in any premium account of the Combined Fund as certified by the Trustees of the Combined Fund. Makes other related revisions, including: (1) providing for refunds to certain operators; and (2) reductions in annual health benefit premiums to the Fund in the event of a surplus. Redefines a coal wage agreement as: (1) the 1988 agreement, meaning the collective bargaining agreement between the settlors which became effective on February 1, 1988; and (2) the coal wage agreement, meaning the 1988 agreement and any predecessor to the 1988 agreement.

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2002 - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to continue the panel to study asbestos and other durable fibers, require the participation of the Secretaries of Labor and of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and require the study of specified asbestos standards and regulatory matters. Requires the Administrator to: (1) study the status of the manufacture, processing, distribution, ownership, importation, and disposal of asbestos-containing products and contaminant-asbestos products (those that contain asbestos as a contaminant of any substance); and (2) promulgate regulations prohibiting the manufacture, processing, or distribution in commerce of asbestos-containing products. Requires inventories and disposal of products subject to this prohibition. Requires establishment of: (1) an asbestos public education program, unless the Administrator determines on the basis of the study conducted under this Act that asbestos-containing products used by consumers and workers do not pose an unreasonable human health risk; and (2) a consumer education campaign concerning the dangers of vermiculite insulation that may be contaminated with asbestos. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of HHS to expand, intensify, and coordinate programs of research on asbestos exposure-caused diseases, particularly mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural injuries. Requires establishment of a National Mesothelioma Registry. Provides funds to certain institutions for purposes of strengthening their mesothelioma treatment programs.

eHealth Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Efficiency in Health Care (eHealth) Act of 2002 - Establishes a timetable for the implementation of certain electronic systems for billing, consumer information and services, and physician orders by health care facilities and group health plans and health insurance issuers offering health insurance that are covered by the Public Health Service Act and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to certain health care facilities for electronic billing systems and for computerized physician order entry systems. Requires, as a condition of their continuing eligibility to receive payments from Federal health plans, that all health care facilities have an electronic billing system and a computerized physician order entry system. Requires that group health plans and health insurance issuers have: (1) an automated, integrated system for efficient adjudication of claims and detection of fraud in real time; (2) a system using the Internet or a toll-free number which can provide certain information and capabilities to the consumer, including statements of account, Internet enrollment, explanation of benefits, referrals and authorizations, prescriptions, patient claim history, and statements to health care providers; and (3) a system to provide financial transaction services such as electronic transfer of payments and automatic payments. Requires the Secretary to establish technical standards for computerized physician order entry systems with an emphasis on interoperability with existing systems and the protection of health record confidentiality.

Health Care for Working Families Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Health Care for Working Families Act - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) to establish a new title II, Health Benefits for Employees and Their Families. Requires employers with 100 or more employees (large employers) to: (1) offer employees the opportunity to enroll in a qualifying health benefit plan that provides family coverage; (2) contribute at least 75 percent of the plan premium; and (3) withhold the employee's share from wages. Applies such requirements to smaller employers that perform a majority of their services for a single large employer. Considers contract, leased, and temporary workers as employees. Provides a formula for determining an alternative minimum employer contribution for plan coverage of part-time workers (who work less than 30 but no less than ten hours per week). Requires such qualifying health plans to provide benefits that are actuarially equivalent or greater in value than those under the Blue Cross-Blue Shield Standard Plan under the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program as of January 1, 2002. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require health insurance issuers to ensure that any employee health insurance coverage they offer to employers complies with requirements of title II of FLSA.

Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) under which each individual who is entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance) is entitled to obtain qualified prescription drug coverage by electing to enroll: (1) in a plan that provides qualified prescription drug coverage under the Medicare+Choice program under SSA title XVIII part C (Medicare+Choice) (M+C); or (2) in a prescription drug plan (PDP) under part D if the individual is not enrolled in a M+C plan providing qualified prescription drug coverage. Outlines standard coverage benefit packages for FY 2005. Includes for the standard package an annual deductible of $250, and requires insurers under such package to cover 80 percent of enrollees drug costs from $251 to $1,000, then 50 percent of such costs between $1,001 and the initial coverage limit of $2,000. Requires enrollees to cover all costs between $2,001 and $4,500, and Medicare to cover the entire cost once the beneficiary has reached the $4,500 catastrophic limit. Prescribes a formula for adjustment of the deductible and thresholds for years after 2005. Establishes a competitive bidding process for negotiating the terms and conditions of PDP sponsors. Provides for full premium subsidy and reduction of cost-sharing for individuals with incomes below 150 percent of the Federal poverty level. Contains subsidy payments for qualifying entities to promote the participation of PDP sponsors. Amends SSA title XVIII part C to: (1) provide for the offering of qualified prescription drug coverage under M+C; and (2) create a competitive bidding program for M+C organizations. Sets out a new Medicare prescription drug discount card endorsement program under Medicare. Makes a number of other changes with regard to Medicare: (1) part A concerning rural health care, inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility services, and hospices; (2) part B concerning physicians services and other services; and (3) part A and B concerning home health services, direct graduate medical education, and other provisions. Amends SSA title XVIII part E (Miscellaneous) (previously part D) to include a number of regulatory, contracting, and administrative changes. Establishes the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicaid. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to add requirements for interstate Internet sellers of prescription drugs. Establishes within the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health the Office of Rare Diseases. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make specified health-care related tax changes.

Reconstructive Surgery Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Reconstructive Surgery Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require a group health plan and a health insurance issuer offering group health insurance coverage in connection with a plan providing surgical coverage to provide coverage for reconstructive surgery. Provides similar coverage for reconstructive surgery offered by a health insurance issuer in the individual market. Sets forth related provisions with respect to collective bargaining agreements.

Animal Drug User Fee Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2002

Animal Drug User Fee Act of 2002 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to assess and collect fees for an animal drug or a supplemental animal drug application (if it requires safety or effectiveness data). Requires payment upon submission or the application will be considered incomplete and not accepted. Excepts from payment applications which were previously filed but withdrawn or not approved without a waiver or refund. Assesses annual fees on animal drug products, establishments, and sponsors. Establishes a fee schedule for FY 2003 through 2007, including total fee revenues for animal drug products, establishments, and sponsors. Adjusts fees to reflect inflation, review workload, operating reserves of carryover user fees (in the final year), and to maintain an equal balance of revenue from applications, products, establishments, and sponsors. Reduces or waives fees: (1) in excess of administrative costs; (2) that present a significant barrier to innovation; (3) to promote availability for minor uses or use in minor species; or (4) for first applications by a small business. Makes fees available for obligation only to the extent provided in advance in appropriations Acts. Offsets any excess fees against subsequent appropriations.

Health Care for Filipino World War II Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2002

Health Care for Filipino World War II Veterans Act - Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish hospital and nursing home care and medical services to any individual who is a Commonwealth Army veteran or new Philippine Scout (current law) and who is: (1) residing in the United States; and (2) a U.S. citizen or alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence. Provides a rate of payment equal to the rate provided for active-service veterans and their survivors for: (1) dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of Commonwealth Army veterans or new Philippine Scouts; and (2) veterans' disability compensation for new Philippine Scouts residing in the United States. Provides national cemetery burial benefits for new Philippine Scouts.

Improving Access to Long-Term Care Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2002

Improving Access to Long-Term Care Act of 2002 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a deduction for eligible long-term care premiums for coverage for a taxpayer, spouse and dependents. Sets deduction amounts. Reduces amount by a specified figure if the modified gross income of the taxpayer exceeds $20,000 (or $40,000 for a joint return, with such values adjusted for inflation). Makes ineligible for the deduction an individual covered for long-term care under a health plan maintained by an employer in which 50 percent or more of the cost is incurred by the employer. Forbids long-term care deduction from also being taken as a deduction for medical expenses or self-employed health care expenses under specified parts of the Code. Permits deduction whether or not taxpayer itemizes. Allows additional personal exemption for each spouse or dependent with "long-term needs" in a taxpayer's home. Defines "individual with long-term care needs." Sets limits for amount of such exemption.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for Persons with Disabilities Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2002

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for Persons with Disabilities Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements for the promotion of good health and the prevention of secondary conditions in persons with disabilities through demonstrations and interventions, surveillances and studies, public education, and training health professionals. Directs the Secretary to establish a National Advisory Committee on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for Persons With Disabilities to set program priorities.

Medicare Outpatient Prescription Drug Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2002

Medicare Outpatient Prescription Drug Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to establish: (1) a Medicare Outpatient Prescription Drug Benefit Program under new part D; (2) a Prescription Drug Account in the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund; and (3) a Medicare Prescription Drug Advisory Committee. Provides for: (1) part D benefits under Medicare+Choice plans under Medicare part C (Medicare+Choice); and (2) Medicare cost-sharing and other assistance for low-income individuals but only as it relates to benefits provided under new part D. Revises Medicare supplemental insurance policy (Medigap) benefit packages to conform to changes made by this Act, eliminating obsolete policies with no grandfathering. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study and report to Congress on the feasibility and advisability of: (1) establishing a uniform format for pharmacy benefit cards provided to beneficiaries; and (2) developing systems to transfer electronically prescriptions under such program from the prescriber to the pharmacist. Requires the Comptroller General to conduct an ongoing study and analysis of the program established under this Act, especially: (1) the extent to which the competitive bidding process under it fosters maximum competition and efficiency; and (2) the savings to the Medicare program resulting from it, including the reduction in the number or length of hospital visits. Expands the membership and duties of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC).

Youth Smoking Prevention and Public Health Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2002

Youth Smoking Prevention and Public Health Protection Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to give the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Food and Drug Administration, regulatory authority over tobacco products. Sets forth criteria by which tobacco products will be deemed adulterated and/or misbranded. Sets forth health information submission and annual registration requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to adopt performance standards. Provides for notification and other remedial measures, including recalls. Requires manufacturers and importers of such products to keep records as specified. Requires premarket review of new tobacco products, as specified. Provides a right of judicial review concerning the promulgation of regulations and the denial of premarket approval. Authorizes postmarket surveillance as necessary. Authorizes the Secretary to designate reduced risk tobacco products, as specified. Requires all retail outlets for tobacco products to be treated equally with regard to advertising restrictions. Requires coordination with the Federal Trade Commission, specifically retaining to the Commission the authority to enforce certain laws concerning the advertising, sale, or distribution of tobacco products. Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) congressional review; (2) regulations; (3) preservation of State and local authority; (4) construction of current regulations; and (5) conforming amendments. Establishes a Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee. Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to revise tobacco and smokeless tobacco label and advertising warning requirements. Amends the Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 to revise smokeless tobacco warning label and advertising requirements.