Healthcare

Hubbard Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

Hubbard Act - Amends federal employment, armed forces, military pay, and veterans' benefits law to authorize the provision of the following benefits to a member of the Armed Forces who is discharged at the member's request pursuant to a Department of Defense (DOD) policy permitting the early discharge of a member who is the only surviving child in a family in which the father or mother, or one or more siblings, served in the Armed Forces and, incident to such service, was killed, died as a result of wounds, accident, or disease, is in a captured or missing in action status, or is permanently disabled: (1) continued payment, through the original agreed-upon service period, of any bonus, incentive, or similar benefit to which the member was entitled during service; (2) separation pay, even though the member has completed less than six years of active service before discharge; (3) transitional health care, on the same basis as an active-duty member, for 180 days after discharge; (4) transitional commissary and exchange benefits, on the same basis as an active-duty member, for two years after discharge; (5) veterans' housing loan, employment and training, and basic educational assistance; (6) federal unemployment compensation; and (7) veteran's preference for federal employment purposes. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the limitation on contributions to funeral trusts. Makes this Act effective with respect to any such discharge granted after September 11, 2001.

Relating to the House procedures contained in section 803 of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003.

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

Provides that House of Representatives procedures under the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 for the consideration of proposed legislation by the President to respond to a Medicare funding warning shall not apply during the remainder of the 110th Congress.

EMERGING BIOLOGICAL THREATS AND PUBLIC HEALTH PREPAREDNESS: GETTING BEYOND GETTING READY

United States · United States House of Representatives · 22 July 2008

Advancing America's Priorities Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Advancing America's Priorities Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) establish a system to collect data on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and establish a registry for such data; (2) provide for an education and information campaign to promote stroke prevention; and (3) award grants for a pilot project to improve stroke patient outcomes by coordinating health care delivery through telehealth networks. Establishes programs for research, rehabilitation, and quality of life for people with paralysis. Provides for support services to women suffering from postpartum depression and who receive a positive diagnosis of Down syndrome or other prenatally or postnatally diagnosed conditions. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to states to provide vision care for children. Amends the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act to expand services for homeless youth and to reauthorize funding for programs under such Act. Requires the Secretary to conduct a national homeless youth awareness campaign. Provides additional funding to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate and prosecute violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December 31, 1969, and resulted in death. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to reauthorize through FY2014 the grant programs for: (1) adult and juvenile collaboration for access to adequate mental health treatment; and (2) mental health courts. Authorizes the Attorney General to make grants to train law enforcement and campus security personnel to respond appropriately to incidents involving mentally ill individuals. Expands DOJ's authority to investigate and prosecute child pornography crimes. Extends the program to protect drug-endangered children. Establishes the Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Commemoration Commission for the national observance of the bicentennial of the War of 1812. Directs the Attorney General to implement a national strategy for child exploitation prevention and interdiction. Establishes a National Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program to assist law efforcement efforts to protect children against online enticement by sexual predators. Amends the federal criminal code to enhance prohibitions against Internet child pornography. Amends the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to add nonhuman primates to the definition of "prohibited wildlife species" for purposes of the prohibition against the sale or purchase of animals in interstate or foreign commerce. Amends the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998 to make permanent the authorization of appropriations for the Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to include among eligible grant activities the development and implementation of programs for source tracking, sanitary surveys, and prevention efforts to address the identified sources of beach water pollution. Extends funding for programs for Appalachian regional development. Reauthorizes the Appalachian Regional Commission through FY2012. Establishes the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation to promote and support study abroad programs for U.S. students. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance for reconstructing and stabilizing a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Reauthorizes the Overseas Private Investment Corporation through FY 2011. Amends the Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 to make forests, coral reefs, and associated coastal marine ecosystem activities eligible for U.S. debt reduction benefits for developing countries. (Currently, such provision applies to tropical forests.). Amends the Torture Victims Relief Act of 1998 to provide additional assistance to victims of torture. Authorizes the Secretary of State to provide assistance to the Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Amends the Telecommunications Act of 1996 to revise Federal Communications Commission (FCC) policies for the collection of data on broadband. Authorizes grants to promote the training and placement of closed caption writers. Amends the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998 to authorize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to acquire hydrographic data and provide services to support the conservation and management of coastal and ocean resources. Establishes a national ocean exploration and underseas research program within NOAA. Directs the President to establish: (1) a program to develop a federal ocean and coastal mapping plan for the Great Lakes and other coastal areas of the United States; and (2) a national integrated coastal and ocean observation system. Directs the Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology of the National Science and Technology Council to: (1) coordinate federal activities on ocean acidification and establish an interagency working group; and (2) develop a strategic plan for federal research and monitoring on ocean acidification. Provides for ocean acidification programs in NOAA and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Authorizes funding over a 10-year period for capital and preventive maintenance projects for the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. Directs the Archivist of the United States to preserve relevant records and establish an electronically searchable national database containing historic records of servitude, emancipation, and post-Civil War reconstruction. Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to: (1) increase the amount guaranteed to each state under the pre-disaster mitigation program; (2) require other financial assistance under the program to be awarded on a competitive basis; and (3) authorize appropriations for the program through FY2011. Authorizes the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to construct a greenhouse facility at its museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland, to maintain its horticultural operations and preserve the orchid collection it holds in trust.

Rural Hospital Assistance Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Rural Hospital Assistance Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to the additional inpatient hospital service payment (payment adjustment) for low-volume hospitals (usually meaning a "subsection (d) hospital" located more than 25 road miles from another subsection (d) hospital and having less than 800 discharges during the fiscal year.) Redefines low-volume hospital, for discharges occurring during FY2009 only, as a "subsection (d) hospital" located more than 15 (instead of 25) road miles from another "subsection (d) hospital" and having less than 1,500 (instead of 800) discharges of individuals entitled to, or enrolled for, Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) benefits ("tweeners,'' or hospitals too large to be critical access hospitals, but too small to be financially viable under the Medicare hospital prospective payment system (PPS)). Revises, for FY2009 only, the temporary applicable percentage in the formula for determining the payment adjustment for such hospitals. Requires the use of the non-wage adjusted prospective payment rate (PPS) rate during FY2009 under the Medicare-dependent hospital (MDH) program. Prescribes requirements for hospitals to qualify for a Medicare hospital exception to the prohibition on certain physician referrals to hospitals in which such physicians have an ownership or investment interest in the entity. (Eliminates the Medicare hospital exception for physician-owned hospitals, but provides a limited exception for existing facilities.)

Tom Lantos Pulmonary Hypertension Research and Education Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Tom Lantos Pulmonary Hypertension Research and Education Act of 2008 - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, should continue aggressive work on pulmonary hypertension; and (2) the Director of the Institute should continue research to expand the understanding of the causes of, and to find a cure for, pulmonary hypertension. Requires inclusion of information on the status of pulmonary hypertension research at NIH in biennial reports to Congress. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to carry out an educational campaign to increase public awareness of pulmonary hypertension. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Director of CDC, to carry out an educational campaign to increase awareness of pulmonary hypertension among health care providers. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on Medicare and Medicaid coverage standards that apply to patients with pulmonary hypertension, including standards for all therapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.

Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to activate the coverage of short-term emergency health care services if the Secretary determines that there is a public health emergency. Sets forth factors for the Secretary to consider, including the degree to which the emergency is likely to overwhelm health care providers in the region. Requires the Secretary to establish a medical monitoring program for monitoring and reporting on the health care needs of the affected population over time. Limits eligibility for coverage of emergency health care services to: (1) uninsured or underinsured emergency victims who need health care services due to injuries or disease resulting from the public health emergency; or (2) uninsured individuals residing in the affected area whose ability to access care or medicine is disrupted as a result of the emergency. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a streamlined process for determining eligibility for emergency health care services; (2) report to Congress on the number and adequacy of volunteers enrolled in the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals (ESAR-VHP) who will be available to each state in the event of a public health emergency; and (3) conduct an outreach and public education campaign to inform health care providers and the general public about the availability of emergency health care coverage during the period of the emergency.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Enhancement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) develop a system to collect data on pulmonary fibrosis and other interstitial lung diseases; (2) establish the National PF Registry; and (3) establish the National Pulmonary Fibrosis Advisory Board. Allows the Secretary, acting through the Director of the CDC, to provide for the collection, analysis, and reporting of data on pulmonary fibrosis and other interstitial lung diseases that can be confused with, misdiagnosed as, and progress to pulmonary fibrosis. 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 the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to expand, intensify, and coordinate Institute pulmonary fibrosis research activities. Requires the Director of CDC to prepare the National Pulmonary Fibrosis Action Plan. Requires the Secretary to: (1) convene a summit of individuals with expertise in research and care of pulmonary fibrosis to provide a detailed overview of NIH research activities and discuss potential collaborations between NIH and other federal health agencies; and (2) make information about NIH activities relating to pulmonary fibrosis publicly available.

Community Assistance Act for Persons with Mental Illness

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Community Assistance Act for Persons with Mental Illness - Authorizes the use of specified funds, by state and local governments under the community development, mental health services, and substance abuse prevention and treatment block grant programs of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act, to provide housing counseling and financial counseling for individuals before their release from institutions for individuals with mental illness. Amends the Public Health Service Act to include in a state plan for comprehensive community-based mental health systems: (1) housing counseling; (2) financial counseling; and (3) support services for individuals released from inpatient or residential institutions.

A resolution reducing maternal mortality both at home and abroad.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2008

Commits to reducing maternal mortality both at home and abroad through greater financial investment and participation in global initiatives. Recognizes maternal health as a human right.

Veterans Critical Access Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2008

Veterans Critical Access Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, with respect to the Medicare rural hospital flexibility program, to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation any beds provided for veterans whom the Department of Veterans Affairs referred for care in the hospital or for whom it is coordinating such care with other care being provided by the Department.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Clinicians HIV/AIDS Testing and Awareness Day, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2008

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of the first annual National Clinicians HIV/AIDS Testing and Awareness Day. Encourages: (1) primary care physicians and other clinicians nationwide to become actively involved in HIV/AIDS awareness, testing, treatment, and referral services; and (2) individuals to get tested for HIV and educate themselves about the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule set forth as requirements contained in the August 17, 2007, letter to State Health Officials from the Director of the Center for Medicaid and State Operations in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the State Health Official Letter 08-003, dated May 7, 2008, from such Center.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Disapproves the rule submitted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services relating to requirements set forth in the State Health Official Letter 07-001, dated August 17, 2007, issued by the Director of the Center for Medicaid and State Operations in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the State Health Official Letter 08-003, dated May 7, 2008, from such Center, requiring states that expand the income eligibility level for children under the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) above 250% of the federal poverty level to adopt the five crowd-out strategies described in the August 17, 2007, letter and to provide certain assurances described in such letter.

Health Insurance Coverage Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Health Insurance Coverage Protection Act - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and the Public Health Service Act to prohibit a group health plan from imposing an aggregate lifetime benefit limit of less than: (1) $5 million for the first two plan years; (2) $10 million for the third and fourth plan years; and (3) adjusted amounts based on the consumer price index for subsequent plan years. Excludes from such prohibition a group health plan offered to employees of a small employer, except upon request of the employer for a consistent limit. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to contract with the Institute of Medicine for a study to determine the number of individuals who have reached the lifetime limitations set forth in this Act.

Primary Care Dental Academic Workforce Development Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Primary Care Dental Academic Workforce Development Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, programs of general dentistry or pediatric dentistry to plan, develop, and operate a loan repayment program to pay student loans in exchange for service as full-time faculty members. Requires the Secretary to: (1) encourage participating programs to use support to broadly recruit diverse faculty; and (2) establish appropriate financial penalties for individuals not completing their service obligations.

Trade Enforcement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Trade Enforcement Act of 2008 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to revise certain trade provisions to require the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to: (1) review U.S. trade expansion priorities; and (2) report to Congress on priority foreign country practices which if eliminated will have the most potential to increase U.S. exports. Requires the USTR to seek consultation and satisfactory resolution of any identified priority foreign country trade practice (including an agreement for elimination or provision of compensatory trade benefits) with the country of concern. Establishes the Office of the Congressional Trade Enforcer. Requires the USTR to: (1) identify priority foreign countries that maintain technical barriers to trade, or sanitary or phytosanitary measures, that deny market access to U.S. products; and (2) initiate an investigation of such trade barriers to determine what trade action, if any, must be taken to remedy such barriers. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to apply countervailing duty provisions to nonmarket economy countries. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the United States should restore the balance between rights and obligations struck during the Uruguay Round of Multilateral Trade Negotiations; (2) the United States should have the ability to enforce rigorously its trade laws (including antidumping, countervailing duty, and safeguard laws) in World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations and dispute settlement proceedings; and (2) dispute settlement panels are obligated to follow WTO negotiated agreements and not Appellate Body jurisprudence. Revises requirements for presidential action on a finding by the International Trade Commission (ITC) regarding an imported Chinese product that threatens or causes market disruption to a like U.S. product. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish: (1) a government-wide, uniform data system to identify all goods imported into the United States; and (2) a voluntary government-private Import Safety Program to ensure that all goods in the international supply chain do not pose risks to public health or safety, and to facilitate the movement of such goods through the chain. Requires the Secretary to establish: (1) a list of importers of record and foreign manufacturers, processing facilities, exporters, and suppliers whose imported products have been determined to be inadmissible into the United States or have been the subject of U.S. recalls because of violations of health or safety standards; and (2) sanctions for entities on the list. Establishes the position of Director of Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement to develop an annual strategic plan for the enforcement of intellectual property rights. Sets forth: (1) enforcement activities to combat the counterfeiting and piracy of products; and (2) civil fines for the import of pirated or counterfeit products.

Remembering Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, known as the "best surgeon who ever lived", who served our Nation throughout his career and was the father of cardiovascular medicine and Veterans Administration Medical Research.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Honors Dr. Michael E. DeBakey for his legendary career as a skilled surgeon, caring healer, inventor, teacher, medical statesman, leader, and patriot. Expresses condolences on his passing to his family, friends, and all those affected.

GETTING BETTER VALUE IN HEALTH CARE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 16 July 2008

National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2008

National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2008 - Amends the 21st Century Nanotechology Research and Development Act to expand the scope of the National Nanotechnology Program (the Program), including directing the Program to utilize the perspectives of the industrial community to promote the rapid commercial development of nanoscale-enabled devices, systems, and technologies. Requires issuing guidance to agencies that describes a strategy for transitioning research into commercial products and technologies. Revises requirements regarding the Program's triennial strategic plans. Requires participating agencies to support the activities of the committees of standards setting bodies involved in the development of standards for nanotechnology. Requires the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office to be supported by funds from each participating agency. Makes the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel a distinct entity. Instructs the Panel to establish a subpanel to enable it in assessing whether societal, ethical, legal, environmental, and workforce concerns are adequately addressed by the Program. Rewrites provisions for triennial external review of the Program. Designates a Coordinator for Societal Dimensions of Nanotechnology, who shall convene a panel to develop a research plan. Establishes an Education Working Group to coordinate, prioritize, and plan the educational activities supported under the Program. Provides for one or more grants to establish Nanotechnology Education Partnerships to recruit and help prepare secondary school students to pursue postsecondary level courses in nanotechnology. Requires agencies supporting nanotechnology research facilities to provide access to companies that are developing prototypes of nanoscale products, devices, or processes. Sets forth provisions concerning nanotechnology related projects under existing nanotechnology transfer programs. Makes it an objective of the Program to establish industry liaison groups. Requires coordination and leveraging of federal investments with nanotechnology research, development, and technology transition initiatives. Requires the Program to include support for nanotechnology research and development in areas of national importance. Requires the Program to support nanomanufacturing research, including in green nanomanufacturing, energy production, water purification, agriculture, and health care. Requires specified reviews by the Advisory Panel of certain program component areas and nanotechnology research facilities. Sets forth provisions regarding nanoscale characterization and metrology. Requires: (1) a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study of nanotechnology related codes, standards, and regulations; and (2) public outreach.

NIH Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2008

NIH Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2008 - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Cancer Institute for FY2008 to support additional scientific research.

Improving Children's Doctor Access Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2008

Improving Children's Doctor Access Act of 2008 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to require annual state SCHIP reports to include information on: (1) the HEDIS (Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set) measure relating to access to primary care practitioners by individuals eligible for child health assistance; and (2) efforts to avoid displacement of private health coverage. Expresses the sense of Congress that states with a state child health plan should utilize consumer satisfaction surveys developed by the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) administered by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, specifically the Getting Needed Care and Getting Care Quickly question components of the CAHPS 4.0H Child Survey, to measure the extent to which individuals eligible for child health assistance under the state plan have access to physicians.

Ensuring Home Health Care for Seniors Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2008

Ensuring Home Health Care for Seniors Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to eliminate the prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services. Establishes a new formula for payment of such services (other than a covered osteoporosis drug) as the lesser of: (1) the reasonable cost of such services; or (2) the customary charges for them. Requires such services to be free of charge or at only a nominal charge if they are furnished by a public service provider or by another provider a significant portion of whose patients are low-income.

Genomics and Personalized Medicine Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2008

Genomics and Personalized Medicine Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) establish the Genomics and Personalized Medicine Interagency Working Group (IWG) to facilitate collaboration, coordination, and integration of activities among federal agencies relating to genomic research and initiatives; (2) expand and accelerate research and programs to collect genetic and genomic data that will advance the field of genomics and personalized medicine; (3) establish a national biobanking distributed database for the collection and integration of genomic data and associated environmental and clinical health information; (4) establish a grant program for academic medical centers and other entities to develop or expand biobanking initiatives; (5) improve genetics and genomics training for diagnosis, treatment, and counseling of adults and children for both rare and common disorders; (6) establish a registry on the analytical and clinical validity of laboratory-developed genetic tests; (7) contract with the National Academy of Sciences to study incentives to encourage companion diagnostic test development; and (8) make information available on the safety and efficacy of genetic tests and commission a study for improving federal oversight and regulation of such tests. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to: (1) conduct an analysis of the public health impact of direct-to-consumer marketing of genetic tests; and (2) expand efforts to educate the public about genomics and its health applications. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish a companion diagnostic tax credit for qualified diagnostic tests designed to provide information that can be used to increase the safety or effectiveness of a drug.

Access to America's Orthopedic Services Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Access to America's Orthopedic Services Act of 2008 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish criteria for accounting and reporting the effort expended by researchers on musculoskeletal research funded with certain grants. Sets forth reporting requirements related to musculoskeletal health, including on: (1) research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH); (2) federal programs and activities relating to musculoskeletal trauma care; (3) a standard unit for the measurement of bone mass under the Medicare program; (4) access to orthopedic services by certain federal health program beneficiaries; and (5) childhood musculoskeletal diseases, conditions, and injuries in the United States. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network to establish the Transplantation Transmission Sentinel Network to track disease transmission from organ, tissue, or eye transplants. Requires the Secretary to issue regulations relating to the accreditation of: (1) establishments engaged in the manufacture of human cells, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products; and (2) personnel who participate in related activities. Requires the Secretary to conduct studies related to: (1) a national registry of artificial joint replacements in Medicare beneficiaries; (2) severe trauma to extremities resulting from motor vehicle crashes; (3) workplace-related musculoskeletal injuries and conditions; (4) funding available for graduate medical education in orthopedics; (5) methods for measuring bone mass in Medicare beneficiaries; and (6) aging in the United States. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct a national public awareness program on musculoskeletal health; and (2) award grants for certain health and aging activities for seniors. Provides for musculoskeletal diseases and conditions to be treated as a priority within the Office of Minority Health.

To apply an alternative payment amount under the Medicare Program for certain graduate medical education programs established to train residents displaced by natural disasters.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, for a cost reporting period beginning on or after July 1, 2005, to provide for payments of direct graduate education costs under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act in accordance with an alternative payment methodology for eligible hospitals in or adjacent to a major disaster area which have established a program to educate residents displaced from a graduate medical education (GME) program impacted by such disaster.

Stephanie Tubbs Jones Organ Transplant Authorization Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Organ Transplant Authorization Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to increase the maximum amount of funds provided for the establishment and operation of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network for any fiscal year.

Expanding Availability of VA Health Care Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Expanding Availability of VA Health Care Act of 2008 - Makes eligible for health care under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patient enrollment system veterans with incomes not exceeding 150% of the maximum for treatment as a low-income family. (Currently, only veterans with incomes not exceeding the maximum for treatment as a low-income family are so eligible.)

Medicare and Medicaid Extension Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008

Medicare and Medicaid Extension Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to extend: (1) the physician payment update; (2) the floor on the work geographic adjustment under the Medicare physician fee schedule; (3) the treatment of certain physician pathology services; (4) the exceptions process for therapy caps; (5) the payment rule for brachytherapy and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals; and (6) the accommodation of physicians ordered to active duty in the Armed Services. Delays generally until after 2011 full implementation of the Medicare competitive acquisition program for the purchase of durable medical equipment (DME), prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS). Revises such program, dividing its implementation into two rounds, and specifying covered item updates for 2009-2014. Prescribes requirements for application of accreditation in implementing quality standards. Requires suppliers to disclose subcontractors. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a competitive acquisition ombudsman within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to respond to complaints and inquiries by suppliers and individuals. Specifies topics for the Comptroller General's required study and report to Congress on the impact of competitive acquisition of DME on suppliers, manufacturers, and patients. Sets forth a special rule for the competitive acquisition program for diabetic testing strips. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to extend the qualifying individual (QI), transitional medical assistance (TMA), abstinence education, and Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) programs.

Healthy Americans Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008

Healthy Americans Act - Requires each adult to have the opportunity to purchase a Healthy Americans Private Insurance Plan (HAPI plan), which includes employer-sponsored health coverage. Makes individuals who are not enrolled in another specified health plan and who are not opposed to coverage for religious reasons responsible for enrolling themselves and their dependent children in a HAPI plan. Sets forth penalties for failure to enroll. Establishes standardized coverage and state options for HAPI plans. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promulgate guidelines concerning the benefits, items, and services to be covered. Sets forth requirements for setting premiums. Requires the Secretary to establish the Healthy America Advisory Committee to provide annual recommendations concerning modifications to the benefits, items, and services required. Provides for premium subsidies based on income. Authorizes states to establish a State Choices for Long-Term Care Program to provide long-term care coverage to individuals. Requires the Secretary to establish Chronic Care Education Centers. Requires states to establish or designate a state Health Help Agency to carry out the administration of HAPI plans and to promote prevention and wellness for residents. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require employers and individuals to each make shared responsibility payments for HAPI plan premiums. Sets forth requirements for health insurance issuers offering a HAPI plan. Establishes the Healthy Americans Public Health Trust Fund for the payment of premium subsidies. Terminates federal health benefits coverage, including coverage provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, state Medicaid coverage, and the State Children's Health Insurance program (SCHIP). Enhanced Health Care Value for All Act of 2007 ( sic )- Provides for a Comparative Effectiveness Advisory Board and a Health Care Comparative Effectiveness Research Trust Fund.

Veterans' Health Care Policy Enhancement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008

Prohibits the collection by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of copayments or other fees for hospital or nursing home care in the case of catastrophically disabled veterans.

Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2008

Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to collect: (1) an application fee from persons who submit an abbreviated application for a generic new animal drug on or after July 1, 2008; (2) an annual product fee from applicants named in an abbreviated application or supplemental abbreviated application for a generic new animal drug product that has been submitted for listing for commercial distribution who have such an application pending before the Secretary after September 1, 2008; and (3) an annual sponsor fee from generic new animal drug sponsors who have such an application or an investigational submission pending after such date. Sets forth the total revenues to be collected from each of such fees in each of FY2009-FY2013. Provides for revenue adjustments based on application review workloads. Requires the Secretary to establish such fees before each fiscal year based on such revenue amounts and adjustments and total review costs. Deems such an application or investigational submission to be incomplete until all such fees have been paid. Authorizes the Secretary to waive or reduce such fees where the drug is intended solely to provide for a minor use or minor species indication. Conditions fee assessment and obligation on appropriation funding levels. Requires the Secretary to report annually on: (1) the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) progress in expediting the development process and the review of abbreviated applications and investigational submissions for generic new animal drugs; and (2) implementation of the fee authority and FDA's use of the fees. Sets forth consultation requirements regarding the process for the review of such abbreviated applications for the five years after FY2013.

To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise and extend the animal drug user fee program, to establish a program of fees relating to generic new animal drugs, to make certain technical corrections to the Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act of 2007, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2008

Animal Drug User Fee Amendments of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to assess a partial fee for a new drug application for a drug that combines active ingredients that have been approved separately. Sets forth the amount of revenue that animal drug fees are to generate for FY2009-FY2013. Reauthorizes appropriations for animal drug fees for FY2009-FY2013. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress and make publicly available information on: (1) progress toward the goal of expediting the animal drug development process and the review of animal drug applications; and (2) the implementation of the authority for and use of animal drug fees. Sets forth a process for the Secretary to develop recommendations for the process of review of animal drug applications after FY2013. Specifies the reporting period and due date for periodic drug experience reports on antibiotic new animal drugs. Terminates the authority to assess and use animal drug fees on October 1, 2013.

A resolution designating June 27, 2008, as National HIV Testing Day.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2008

Designates June 27, 2008, as National HIV Testing Day. Encourages: (1) state and local governments to recognize such day, publicize its importance, encourage individuals to undergo counseling and testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, and establish and maintain effective linkages to care and treatment services for individuals testing positive; (2) use of rapid test kits approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a fast and efficient method of HIV testing; (3) media organizations to carry messages in support of the Day; and (4) the President to emphasize the importance of addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic among all individuals in the United States, especially among minority communities. Expresses support for the development of a national AIDS strategy with clear goals and objectives to reduce new HIV infections, especially among minorities.

LEGISLATIVE HEARING ON VETERANS HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 26 June 2008

Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) submit to Congress a plan to introduce pay-for-performance mechanisms into contracts which compensate Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) contractors for the provision of veterans' health care services through community-based outpatient clinics (clinics); (2) commence plan implementation within 60 days after submission, unless Congress enacts a law prohibiting or modifying plan implementation; and (3) report semiannually to Congress on the advisability of utilizing such mechanisms in the provision of VA health care services by means in addition to such clinics.

Medicare, Medicaid, and MCH Tobacco Cessation Promotion Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Medicare, Medicaid, and MCH Tobacco Cessation Promotion Act of 2008- Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare coverage of: (1) counseling for cessation of tobacco use; and (2) tobacco cessation pharmacotherapy. Provides for similar benefits under SSA titles V (Maternal and Child Health Services) and XIX (Medicaid).

Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health Reauthorization Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health Reauthorization Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to include among the reasons preferences shall be given in awarding mosquito control program grants that a political subdivision or consortium of political subdivisions demonstrates to the Secretary of Health and Human Services that its control program is consistent with existing state mosquito plans or policies. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013 for mosquito control programs to prevent and control mosquito-borne diseases.

Veterans Advocacy Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Veterans Advocacy Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program to assess the feasibility and advisability of utilizing legal entities to provide legal services to assist veterans and members of the Armed Forces in applying for and receiving health care, benefits, and services. Requires the Secretary to award ten grants to legal entities to provide such services. Limits grant duration to one year.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to extend and revise incentive payments for physician scarcity areas under part B of the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) extend through July 1, 2012, Medicare incentive payments for physician scarcity areas; and (2) establish new rules for scarcity areas in the case of physicians' services furnished on or after July 1, 2008. Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study whether the primary and specialist care ratios applied under such new rules are appropriate to provide the proper incentive payments for physician scarcity areas.

Quit Smoking for Life Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Quit Smoking for Life Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to cover diagnostic, therapy, and counseling services, furnished by or under a physician's supervision, for cessation of tobacco use. Provides for payment of 80% of the lesser of the actual charge or the fee schedule amount. Eliminates the deductible. Includes tobacco cessation agents as covered drugs under Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program). Amends SSA titles V (Maternal and Child Health Services) and XIX (Medicaid) also to cover counseling and medication for cessation of tobacco use. Requires inclusion of anti-tobacco messages in health promotion counseling as part of quality maternal and child health services.

Medicare Card Security Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Medicare Card Security Act of 2008 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to direct the Commissioner of Social Security and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to ensure that Social Security numbers are not displayed on Medicare cards.

Strengthening of FDA Integrity Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Strengthening of FDA Integrity Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to apply debarment provisions currently applicable to abbreviated new drugs to any drug products, including new drugs, animal drugs, exported drugs, biological products, and medical devices. Expands the conditions under which persons (i.e., partnerships, corporations, and associations) are subject to mandatory and permissive debarment preventing such persons from submitting an application for approval of a drug product. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in determining the appropriateness and the period of debarment, to consider whether debarment will affect the public health because sufficient quantities of the drug would not be available. Requires the Secretary to annually report to Congress on the implementation of debarment provisions.

Strengthening of FDA Integrity Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Strengthening of FDA Integrity Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to apply debarment provisions currently applicable to abbreviated new drugs to any drug products, including new drugs, animal drugs, exported drugs, biological products, and medical devices. Expands the conditions under which persons (i.e., partnerships, corporations, and associations) are subject to mandatory and permissive debarment preventing such persons from submitting an application for approval of a drug product. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to initiate debarment not later than one year after a person or individual is convicted of a felony. Requires the Secretary, in determining the appropriateness and the period of debarment, to consider whether debarment will affect the public health because sufficient quantities of the drug would not be available. Requires the Secretary to annually report to Congress on the implementation of debarment provisions.

Medicare Physician Telephone Consultation Services Coverage Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Medicare Physician Telephone Consultation Services Coverage Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover unscheduled physician telephone consultation services under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a demonstration program to test the effectiveness of providing Medicare coverage for such services.

Border Health Care Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Border Health Care Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to extend through FY2012 federal reimbursement of emergency health services furnished to undocumented aliens.

Small Business Health Care Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Small Business Health Care Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain small business owners with 50 or fewer employees a refundable tax credit for the payment of a portion of the health care expenses of their employees.

National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise provisions of the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. Specifies how loss of earning is to be calculated for vaccine-related injuries to individuals under the age of 18. Increases the award for vaccine-related deaths. Allows compensation under the Program for expenses for family counseling and for establishing and maintaining a guardianship, conservatorship, or trust for an individual with a vaccine-related injury. Allows a special master to make an interim award of attorneys' fees and costs under certain circumstances. Allows such award to be payable directly to the petitioner's attorney. Extends the statute of limitation for vaccine-related injury or death to six years after the date of injury or onset of symptoms. Specifies who is to be a member of the Advisory Commission on Childhood Vaccines. Provides that the Commission shall meet at the call of the Chair (currently, the Commission must meet not less than four times a year). Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the amount of expenses for administering the Program that are allowed to be paid from the Vaccine Injury Compensation Trust Fund. Allows the payment from the Trust Fund of administrative and personnel expenses that the Bureau of Public Debt incurs for financial services for the Trust Fund. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to include a public service announcement in efforts to inform the public about the Program.

Medical Device Safety Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Medical Device Safety Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide that provisions preempting state and local requirements for medical devices intended for human use shall not be construed to modify or otherwise affect any action for damages or the liability of any person under state law. Makes this Act effective as if it were included in the Medical Device Amendments of 1976 and applicable to any civil action pending or filed on or after the date of enactment of this Act.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National HIV Testing Day, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National HIV/AIDS Testing Day. Encourages: (1) state and local governments to recognize such day, publicize its importance, encourage individuals to undergo counseling and testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, and establish and maintain effective linkages to care and treatment services for individuals testing positive; (2) use of rapid test kits approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a fast and efficient method of HIV testing; (3) media organizations to carry messages in support of the Day; and (4) the President to emphasize the importance of addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic among all Americans, especially among minority communities. Expresses support for the development of a national AIDS strategy with clear goals and objectives to reduce new HIV infections, especially among minorities.

Healthy Transition Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2008

Healthy Transition Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants or cooperative agreements to states: (1) to develop plans for the statewide coordination of services to assist adolescents and young adults with a serious mental health disorder in acquiring the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to ensure their healthy transition to successful adult roles and responsibilities; and (2) for the coordination of such services. Requires the Secretary to designate a federal entity, or establish a Committee of Federal Partners, to coordinate programs providing such services. Directs such entity or committee to: (1) review how federal programs and efforts that address issues related to the transition of adolescents and young adults with serious mental health disorders may be coordinated to ensure the maximum benefit for the individuals being served; and (2) provide technical assistance to the states who are planning or implementing programs under this Act.