Healthcare

Healthcare Innovation Zone Pilot Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2009

Healthcare Innovation Zone Pilot Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a Healthcare Innovation Zone (HIZ) pilot program to increase health care provider integration and align provider incentives to reduce the rate of growth of health care costs while improving quality of care for Medicare, Medicaid, and privately insured patients. Defines an "HIZ" as a geographic region that contains clinical and other entities that provide a full spectrum of health care to such patients and a teaching hospital that has the capacity to conduct health services research and provide clinical training for health professionals. Requires the HIZ program to: (1) incorporate innovative clinical initiatives for training health professionals in a new model of cost-effective, high-quality health care; and (2) consist of an HIZ planning grant program and an HIZ pilot project. Directs the Secretary to make up to 25 HIZ planning grants to eligible health care entities for researching and preparing HIZ design plans, which shall describe the HIZ Coordinating Entity (who will receive and administer payments under the program), how care will be provided, how spending will be reduced, how providers will be integrated and delivery processes changed to reduce costs and improve care, the target population,quality improvement metrics, training, data collection mechanisms, methods for monitoring health costs and use, a strategy to improve prevention, mechanisms to achieve community involvement, payment methodology options, and startup and operating costs. Directs the Secretary to establish an HIZ pilot project to test the effectiveness of HIZs in reducing the rate of growth of health care costs while improving quality of care.

To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize the special diabetes programs for Type I diabetes and Indians under that Act.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2009

Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for FY2012-FY2016 for: (1) type I diabetes research; and (2) diabetes prevention and treatment through Indian health facilities.

Health Professions and Primary Care Reinvestment Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009

Health Professions and Primary Care Reinvestment Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make grants to hospitals, medical schools, and other entities to train primary care providers to provide care through patient-centered medical homes and to develop tools and curricula and provide continuing education relevant to patient-centered homes. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis (National Center) to collect, analyze, and report data related to health workforce issues in coordination with the State and Regional Centers for Health Workforce Analysis; (2) award grants to, or enter into contracts with, states, state workforce commissions, and other health care entities to collect, analyze, and report to the National Center data on programs related to health workforce issues; and (3) increase the amount of grants or contracts awarded for the establishment and maintenance of a longitudinal tracking system (a system that tracks students, residents, fellows, interns, or faculty who have received education, training, or financial assistance from Health Professions Education and Training programs for at least five years). Requires the Advisory Committee on Interdisciplinary, Community-Based Linkages and the Advisory Council on Graduate Medical Education to develop, publish, and implement performance measures for health professions education programs.

A resolution designating September 26, 2009, as "National Mesothelioma Awareness Day".

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009

Designates September 26, 2009, as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for members of the United States Public Health Service and National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration Corps to transfer unused benefits under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to family members, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009

Grants to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Commerce similar authority to allow members of the Public Health Service and of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Corps, respectively, to transfer unused benefits under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to family members. (Currently, this benefits transfer option applies only to the Secretary of Defense [DOD] and members of the Armed Forces.) Requires such personnel, at the time their benefits transfer request is approved, to have completed: (1) six years of service in the Public Health Service or NOAA Corps and agreed to serve at least four more; or (2) the years of service determined by the appropriate Secretary. Authorizes the transfer to family members of up to 36 months of unused post-9/11 educational assistance, although the appropriate Secretary may limit such transfer to as little as 18 months of assistance.

21 Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009

Trisomy 21 Translational Research Parity Act of 2009 or the 21 Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH): (1) in coordination with the directors of specified national research institutes, to expand and intensify NIH programs with respect to translational research and related activities concerning Down syndrome; and (2) allocate specified funds among such institutes. Requires the Director to award grants and contracts for, and provide for the establishment of, at least six centers of excellence regarding such translational research to: (1) contribute to a comprehensive research portfolio for Down syndrome, provide an optimal venue and infrastructure for patient-oriented research, and conduct basic, clinical, and translational research on Down syndrome; (2) carry out a program to make individuals aware of opportunities to participate as subjects in research conducted by the centers; and (3) establish or expand training programs for medical and allied health clinicians and scientists in research relevant to Down syndrome. Requires the Director, in coordination of the National Down Syndrome Patient Registry and Biobank (Biobank), to provide for a program under which samples of tissues and genetic materials that are of use in research on Down syndrome are made available. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to: (1) establish the Down Syndrome Coordinating Committee to coordinate federal health programs relating to Down syndrome; (2) award grants and cooperative agreements for the collection, analysis, and reporting of data on, and for epidemiological activities regarding, Down syndrome; (3) establish the Biobank and an advisory committee; and (4) enter into cooperative agreements to develop, implement, and manage Down Syndrome Centers of Excellence.

Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009

Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require personnel who perform or plan the technical component of either medical imaging examinations or radiation therapy procedures for medical purposes to possess, effective January 1, 2013: (1) certification in each medical imaging or radiation therapy modality and service provided from a certification organization designated by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS); or (2) state licensure or certification where such services and modalities are within the scope of practice as defined by the state for such profession and where the requirements for licensure, certification, or registration meet or exceed the standards established by the Secretary. Exempts physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish minimum standards for personnel who perform, plan, evaluate, or verify patient dose for medical imaging examinations or radiation therapy procedures; (2) establish a program for designating certification organizations after consideration of specified criteria; (3) provide a method for the recognition of individuals whose training or experience are determined to be equal to, or in excess of, those of a graduate of an accredited educational program in that specialty; and (4) approve and publish a list of accrediting bodies for such certification organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to develop alternative standards for rural or health professional shortage areas as appropriate to assure access to quality medical imaging. Amends the Social Security Act to allow Medicare payment for medical imaging and radiation therapy services furnished on or after January 1, 2013, only if the examination or procedure is planned or performed by an individual who meets this Act's requirements.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Urges Congress to work with health care providers and advocacy organizations to encourage awareness and education regarding Down syndrome.

Honoring the 25th anniversary of the enactment of the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of 1984 (the Hatch-Waxman Act).

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009

Expresses the sense of Senate that: (1) enactment of the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of 1984 (commonly known as the Hatch-Waxman Act) served to create the modern generic pharmaceutical industry, which has provided consumers with access to affordable drugs, yielding significant health and economic benefits for the nation's health care system; (2) Senator Orrin Hatch and Representative Henry Waxman deserve the nation's gratitude for authoring and championing this landmark bipartisan legislation; and (3) Congress should enact legislation to create a pathway for approval by the Food and Drug Administration of safe and affordable generic versions of biologic medicines.

Rural Physician Pipeline Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009

Rural Physician Pipeline Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to establish a program to make grants to accredited schools of allopathic or osteopathic medicine to: (1) assist such schools in recruiting students most likely to practice medicine in underserved rural communities; (2) provide rural-focused training and experience; and (3) increase the number of recent allopathic and osteopathic medical school graduates who practice in underserved rural communities. Requires the Secretary to convene a Rural Training Program Symposium to: (1) develop best practices for such schools; and (2) establish a network of medical schools that have developed or will develop rural training programs.

Supporting the goals and ideals of a National Mesothelioma Awareness Day.

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of a National Mesothelioma Awareness Day.

A resolution expressing support for the designation and goals of "National Health Information Technology Week" for the period beginning on September 21, 2009, and ending on September 25, 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2009

Designates September 21-25, 2009, as National Health Information Technology Week. Recognizes the value of information technology and management systems in transforming health care. Calls on all stakeholders to promote the use of information technology and management systems to transform the health care system in the United States.

Medicare Premium Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2009

Medicare Premium Fairness Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to the part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for Aged and Disabled) premium for 2010. Makes such premium, and the related monthly actuarial rate, the same as those for 2009. Requires transfer from the Treasury general fund to the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund of an amount estimated to be equivalent to the aggregate reduction in part B premiums resulting from application of this Act. Revises the formula for funding the Medicare Improvement Fund (MIF) to reduce (offset) the amount available to the MIF for FY2014 by the transferred amount plus $567 million. Makes $567 million the amount available to the MIF for FY2015.

Services for Ending Long-Term Homelessness Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2009

Services for Ending Long-Term Homelessness Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to design national strategies for providing services in supportive housing that will assist in ending chronic homelessness and to implement programs that address chronic homelessness. Requires the Secretary to make matching grants to eligible entities to provide services that promote recovery and self-sufficiency and that address barriers to housing stability to chronically homeless individuals and families in, or who are scheduled to become residents of, permanent supportive housing and to other individuals and families who have voluntarily chosen to seek other housing opportunities after a period of tenancy in supportive housing. Directs the Secretary to require grantees to report data regarding the performance outcomes of projects carried out under this Act, which shall include measuring and reporting specific performance outcomes related to the long-term goals of: (1) increasing stability within the community for individuals and families who have been chronically homeless; and (2) decreasing recurrence of periods of homelessness.

A resolution designating September 2009 as "National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2009

Designates September 2009 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Declares that steps should be taken to: (1) raise awareness about prostate cancer screening and treatment; (2) increase funding for prostate cancer research; and (3) improve access to, and the quality of, health care services for detecting and treating prostate cancer.

A resolution designating September 22, 2009, as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Day".

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2009

Designates September 22, 2009, as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Commends the Falls Free Coalition Advocacy Work Group and the 22 state falls coalitions for their efforts to work together to increase education and awareness about the prevention of falls among older adults. Encourages: (1) businesses, individuals, governments, the public health community, and health care providers to work together to promote the awareness of and reduce the incidence of falls among older people in the United States; (2) state health departments to use their leadership to reduce injuries and injury-related health care costs by collaborating with colleagues, organizations, and individuals to reduce falls among older adults; and (3) experts in the field of fall prevention to share best practices. Urges the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to continue developing and evaluating interventions to prevent falls among older adults that can be used in effective community-based fall prevention programs.

EXAMINING THE FEDERAL TAX TREATMENT OF HEALTH CARE BENEFITS PROVIDED BY TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS TO THEIR CITIZENS

United States · United States Senate · 18 September 2009

Affordable Health Choices Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2009

Affordable Health Choices Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to set forth provisions governing health insurance plans and issuers, including to: (1) prohibit preexisting condition exclusions; (2) limit premium variances; (3) provide for guaranteed coverage of every employer and individual and automatic renewal of coverage; (4) limit cost-sharing for preventive care; (5) require coverage of a dependent child until 26 years of age; (6) prohibit lifetime or annual limits on benefits; and (7) prohibit group health plans from establishing eligibility rules based on salary of the employee. Provides for grandfathered health insurance coverage. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) award grants to states for the establishment of American Health Benefit Gateways to facilitate the purchase of health insurance coverage and related insurance products; (2) establish essential health care benefits for qualified health plans available through the Gateway, which must include hospitalization, prescription drugs, and preventive and wellness services; (3) establish a community health insurance option to offer health care coverage through each Gateway; (4) establish at least two tiers of cost-sharing for eligible low-income individuals; (5) pay a premium credit to the Gateway for enrolled eligible individuals; and (6) make a payment to qualified small employers for health insurance costs of its employees. Authorizes states to establish a Gateway or request the Secretary operate a Gateway in the state. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a surtax on each individual that does not have qualifying health insurance coverage. Requires employers to make payments to the Secretary for each employee who is not offered qualifying coverage by such employer or for whom the employer is not contributing at least 60% of the monthly premiums for such coverage. Exempts small employers. Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act or the CLASS Act - Establishes a national, voluntary disability insurance program to purchase community living assistance services and supports (CLASS program) under which: (1) all employees are automatically enrolled, but are allowed to waive enrollment; (2) payroll deductions pay monthly premiums; and (3) benefits are provided, based on the level of disability, to purchase nonmedical services and supports that the beneficiary needs to maintain independence. Sets forth provisions related to health care quality, including provisions: (1) providing grants for developing health care quality measures; (2) establishing the Patient Safety Research Center; (3) providing grants for medication management; (4) providing for emergency care research; (5) reducing hospital readmissions; (6) establishing the Center for Health Outcomes Research and Evaluation; and (7) establishing Offices of Women's Health within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its agencies. Sets forth provisions governing health promotion and disease prevention, including provisions providing for: (1) school-based health clinics; (2) standards to make medical diagnostic equipment accessible to, and usable by, individuals with disabilities; (3) nutrition labeling of standard menu items offered for sale in chain restaurants and vending machines; and (4) data collection by federal health care programs. Requires the Secretary to establish the Interagency Pain Research Coordinating Committee and the Coordinated Environmental Public Health Network. Sets forth provisions governing the health care workforce, including provisions to: (1) provide for the establishment of the National Health Care Workforce Commission and the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis; and (2) provide grants for health care provider training. Revises provisions related to health care provider scholarship and loan repayment programs. Sets forth provisions governing health care fraud and abuse, including provisions: (1) providing for a review of federal health care programs and private health insurance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse; and (2) establishing the Health Care Program Integrity Coordinating Council. Revises provisions related to: (1) Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA) Plans; and (2) the 340B drug discount program (a program limiting the cost of covered drugs to certain federal grantees). Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow a person to submit an application for licensure of a biological product based on its similarity to a licensed biological product (the reference product).

Expanding Access to Medical Records Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2009

Expanding Access to Medical Records Act - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) grant the authorized representative of a deceased beneficiary full access to information with respect to the deceased beneficiary's benefits under the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2009

Service Members Home Ownership Tax Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) exempt members of the uniformed services, the Foreign Service, and employees of the intelligence community on official extended duty service from the recapture requirements of the first-time homebuyer tax credit; (2) extend the first-time homebuyer tax credit through November 30, 2010, for individuals serving on official extended duty service outside the United States for at least 90 days in 2009; (3) exclude from gross income payments to military personnel to compensate for declines in housing values due to a base closure or realignment; and (4) increase penalties for failure to file a partnership or S corporation tax return. Amends the Corporate Estimated Tax Shift Act of 2009 to increase corporate estimated tax payments in the third quarter of 2014 by an additional 0.5%.

Encouraging States to adopt laws that set clear guidelines for contact protocols for personal emergency response systems used by the Nation's senior citizens.

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2009

Calls for states to adopt laws that set clear guidelines for contact protocols for personal emergency response systems used by senior citizens.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Red Ribbon Week.

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2009

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Red Ribbon Week. Encourages: (1) children and teens to live drug-free lives; and (2) people in the United States to promote drug-free communities and to participate in drug prevention activities.

Health Care Consumer Protection Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2009

Health Care Consumer Protection Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require an issuer of group health insurance coverage in connection with a group health plan that cancels or does not renew the coverage by reason of nonpayment of premiums to: (1) provide to the administrator of the plan and to each participant receiving coverage, during the 14-day period beginning on the date of such cancellation or non-renewal, written notice of the cancellation or non-renewal, the reason for such cancellation or non-renewal, and the right of reinstatement; and (2) reinstate the coverage as if it had not lapsed if the premiums due and such reasonable administrative fee as the state regulating such coverage may specify are paid to the issuer by not later than 60 days after the date the cancellation or non-renewal would otherwise have become effective. Applies such requirement in the same manner to health insurance coverage offered by a health insurance issuer in the individual market. Requires the notice to be provided to an association or other organization responsible for paying premiums as well as the individuals whose coverage is affected.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2009

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.

Equal Access to Medicare Options Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009

Equal Access to Medicare Options Act of 2009 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide all Medicare beneficiaries, regardless of whether they have enrolled in Medicare part B, as well as Medicare Advantage and Medicaid enrollees with the right to guaranteed issue of a supplemental insurance (Medigap) policy. Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of SSA title XVIII to permit enrollment of individuals with end stage renal disease (ESRD) in Medicare Advantage.

A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

A resolution designating October 2009 as "National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2009

Designates October 2009 as National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month. Urges communities to carry out appropriate programs and activities to educate parents and youth about the potential dangers associated with medicine abuse.

Supporting ColoRectal Examination and Education Now (SCREEN) Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2009

Supporting ColoRectal Examination and Education Now (SCREEN) Act of 2009 - Declares the sense of Congress that colorectal cancer screening tests and the provisions of this Act should be included as part of any basic benefit package in any legislation that may be enacted to provide health insurance coverage, public or private, to persons under age 65. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make grants to states and Indian tribes for colorectal health programs. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to notify all beneficiaries annually about coverage of colorectal cancer screening tests under title XVII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA). Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid), as amended by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, to require any state Medicaid plan that includes colorectal cancer screening tests to provide for a program to notify individuals at risk for colon cancer, including high-risk minorities, who are over an appropriate age, of the availability of medical assistance for colorectal cancer screening tests. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to eliminate coinsurance for colorectal cancer screening tests. Prescribes annual reporting requirements under the Medicare Advantage program with regard to colorectal cancer screening tests. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a national minimum standard for basic knowledge, training, continuing education, and documentation for suppliers who furnish colorectal cancer screening tests; (2) determine age-based goal rates for such tests; and (3) establish an upward preventive service payment modifier for qualifying tests furnished on or after January 1, 2010, which reflects the Secretary's annual determination of the appropriate amount of additional payment sufficient to increase the rate of colorectal cancer screening tests. Extends Medicare coverage to an office visit or consultation prior to a qualifying screening colonoscopy.

To require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a self-referral disclosure protocol under the Medicare Program to enable health care providers of services and suppliers to disclose violations of section 1877 of the Social Security Act.

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2009

Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), in cooperation with the Inspector General of the Department of HHS, to establish a self-referral disclosure protocol (SRDP) to enable health care service providers and suppliers to disclose an actual or potential violation of the prohibition against certain physician referrals.

A bill to make available funds from the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 for funding a voluntary employees' beneficiary association with respect to former employees of Delphi Corporation.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2009

Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to enter into an agreement with a volunteer employees' beneficiary association (VEBA) established after enactment of this Act for the benefit of eligible separated employees of Delphi Corporation (and their dependents) in order to transfer amounts to the VEBA for purposes of establishing, or obtaining coverage under, a health care plan for the benefit of such employees (and dependents). Limits the application of this Act to employees with respect to whom the obligation of Delphi Corporation or General Motors Corporation to provide health care coverage has been discharged in a bankruptcy proceeding. Directs the Secretary to make available up to $3 billion in Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) funds, under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA), to provide health care coverage that is substantially the same as the coverage the obligation for which was so discharged.

A resolution designating the month of September 2009 as "National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month" and encouraging efforts to educate the public about atrial fibrillation.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2009

Designates September 2009 as National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month. Recognizes the need for additional research into treatment for atrial fibrillation.

INCOME, POVERTY, AND HEALTH CARE COVERAGE: ASSESSING KEY CENSUS INDICATORS OF FAMILY WELL-BEING IN 2008

United States · United States Senate · 10 September 2009

A resolution designating September 12, 2009, as "National Day of Encouragement".

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2009

Designates September 12, 2009, as National Day of Encouragement.

A resolution designating September 13, 2009, as "National Celiac Disease Awareness Day".

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2009

Designates September 13, 2009, as National Celiac Disease Awareness Day.

Supporting the observance of September as Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2009

Expresses support for the observance of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month to enhance thyroid cancer awareness and encourage early detection. Recognizes the work of national and community thyroid cancer organizations.

FULL COMMITTEE HEARING ON THE CHALLENGES OF THE 2009-H1N1 INFLUENZA AND ITS POTENTIAL IMPACT ON SMALL BUSINESSES AND HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 September 2009

A resolution recognizing the importance of "National Drug Facts Chat Day" on November 10, 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2009

Recognizes the importance of National Drug Facts Chat Day. Urges teachers, schools, and students to participate by submitting questions and using the information provided to increase their understanding of the science of drug abuse and addiction among school-aged youth.

Expressing support for greater awareness of ovarian cancer.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2009

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Recognizing the importance of "National Drug Facts Chat Day" on November 10, 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2009

Recognizes the importance of National Drug Facts Chat Day. Urges teachers, schools, and students to participate by submitting questions and using the information provided to increase their knowledge on the science of drug abuse and addiction among school-aged youth.

WMD Prevention and Preparedness Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2009

Weapons of Mass Destruction Prevention and Preparedness Act of 2009 or the WMD Prevention and Preparedness Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS Secretary), in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS Secretary), to designate as "Tier I agents" those agents and toxins which have significant potential to be used effectively in a biological attack and for which the DHS Secretary has issued a Material Threat Determination, with exceptions. Amends the Homeland Security Act (HSA) to direct the DHS Secretary to establish enhanced biosecurity measures for registered entities to use in handling such agents. Directs the DHS Secretary to: (1) evaluate and ensure the implementation of, and compliance with, personnel reliability programs at laboratories that handle Tier I agents; (2) ensure that such laboratories submit risk assessments and site security plans that comply with the standards promulgated under this Act; (3) inspect such laboratories for compliance with regulations promulgated under this Act; and (4) award grants to academic and nonprofit organizations to implement security improvements at such laboratories. Amends the PHSA to direct the HHS Secretary to develop, coordinate, and maintain a National Medical Countermeasure Dispensing Strategy. Directs the HHS Secretary to expand existing pilot programs to utilize the United States Postal Service to deliver medical countermeasures in a public health emergency. Amends the HSA to: (1) direct the DHS Secretary to establish a program to distribute medkits to emergency responders and their immediate family members; (2) require the HHS Secretary to conduct a pilot program to study the feasibility of providing personal medkits to the public; (3) establish in DHS a National Bioforensics Analysis Center; (4) direct the DHS Secretary to develop, coordinate, and maintain a national bioforensics strategy; and (5) direct the DHS Secretary to incorporate into each operational plan developed under the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 a communications plan for informing the public regarding preventing, preparing for, protecting against, and responding to imminent natural disasters, terrorist acts, and other man-made disasters. Requires: (1) the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to complete a global review of international biological security threats to the United States and to update the review at least biennially; and (2) the Secretary of State to provide specified technical and financial assistance to countries or regions identified by the mandated Threat Assessment and to produce and implement a plan for promoting international adherence to, and implementation of, international agreements regarding weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2009 - Authorizes providing assistance to eligible developing countries that: (1) permit personnel from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate outbreaks of infectious diseases within their borders; and (2) provide pathogen surveillance data to the appropriate U.S. agencies and to international health organizations. Directs the Secretary of State to provide assistance for short training courses for public health personnel in laboratory techniques relating to the identification, diagnosis, and tracking of pathogens responsible for possible infectious disease outbreaks. Sets forth provisions regarding the assignment of public health personnel to U.S. missions and international organizations. Authorizes the HHS Secretary to establish new country or regional international Field Epidemiology Training Programs. Requires the DNI to develop, implement, and submit to the appropriate congressional committees a strategy for improving: (1) U.S. capabilities for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence related to WMD; and (2) the recruiting, training, and retention of employees of the elements of the intelligence community who possess critical language capabilities and cultural backgrounds. Amends the HSA to direct the DHS Secretary: (1) in coordination with the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to ensure that information concerning terrorist threats is available to the general public within the United States; and (2) to develop and disseminate guidelines for police, emergency medical services, emergency management, and public health personnel for responding to an explosion or release of nuclear, biological, radiological, or chemical material. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist state, local, and tribal governments in improving and promoting individual and community preparedness for disasters and terrorist acts.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that any major health care reform bill considered on the floor of the House should be available for viewing for 30 calendar days.

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2009

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that any major health care reform bill that comes to the floor of the House in final form should be available to Members to view in hard copy and available online to the public in a downloadable and searchable format for 30 calendar days prior to the final vote.

Expressing support for designation of the period beginning on September 21, 2009, and ending on September 25, 2009, as "National Health Information Technology Week".

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2009

Expresses support for the designation of a National Health Information Technology Week. Recognizes the value of information technology and management systems to transforming health care. Encourages the President to issue a proclamation calling upon all stakeholders to promote the use of such systems to transform the U.S. health care system.

7th Generation Promise: Indian Youth Suicide Prevention Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

7th Generation Promise: Indian Youth Suicide Prevention Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Indian Health Service, to carry out a demonstration project to award up to five grants to Indian tribes and tribal organizations operating one or more facilities for the provision of telemental health services to Indian youth who: (1) have expressed suicidal ideas; (2) have attempted suicide; or (3) have mental health conditions that increase or could increase the risk of suicide. Sets forth grant application and eligibility requirements. Specifies how the grants are to be used, including permitting tribal organizations to use and promote traditional tribal health care practices. Defines "telemental health" as the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance mental health care, patient and professional-related education, public health, and health administration. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), to carry out measures necessary to maximize the efficiency of the process by which Indian tribes and tribal organizations apply for grants under any SAMHSA-administered program. Prohibits any tribal organization from being required to provide a non-federal share of the cost of any activity carried out using a grant provided by SAMHSA. Directs the Secretary to carry out activities to encourage tribal organizations and mental health care providers serving tribal area residents to obtain the services of predoctoral psychology and psychiatry interns.

Measuring American Poverty Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Measuring American Poverty Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau), in collaboration with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), to calculate modern poverty thresholds and modern poverty rates for each calendar year. Directs the Census Bureau and the BLS to choose: (1) the most appropriate distribution of consumption expenditures on food, clothing, and shelter, which may exclude families receiving subsidies for food, clothing, or shelter; and (2) the reference family for the modern poverty measure. Declares that the modern poverty threshold for a reference family shall be an amount equal to the average of 120% of the 33rd percentile of the distribution chosen, allowing for calculations to rely on a limited band converging on this percentile, during four or more of the most recent years for which data is available from the Consumer Expenditure Survey, a superior federal government source of data, or some combination of such sources. Prescribes requirements for determining modern poverty rates. Directs the Census Bureau, in collaboration with the BLS, to contract with the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to develop and publish methods of: (1) calculating a decent living standard threshold; and (2) measuring the extent to which the income of families in the United States is sufficient to meet it. Directs the Census Bureau, in collaboration with the BLS, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to contract with NAS to develop and publish a method of: (1) measuring the extent of medical care risk in the United States; and (2) calculating the number and percentage of individuals in the United States who lack adequate health insurance, leaving them at risk of being unable to afford needed treatment. Directs the Census Bureau to contract with NAS to develop a set of recommendations for methods to implement annual modern poverty measurement at the state and local level and a timeframe for the implementation.

A bill to amend the Trade Act of 1974 to require a Public Health Advisory Committee on Trade to be included in the trade advisory committee system, to require public health organizations to be included on the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations and other relevant sectoral or functional advisory committees, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to require the President to establish a Public Health Advisory Committee on Trade. Requires the composition of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations to include representatives from nonprofit nongovernmental public health organizations or coalitions that promote the public health, increase access to affordable health-related services or products, or prevent and reduce major disease, illness, or a public health problem. Requires the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, Defense, or other executive departments to seek written advisory opinions from the advisory committees established under such Act throughout the trade agreement negotiation process. Requires such committees, each appropriate policy committee, and each appropriate sectoral or functional committee, before the President's notification to Congress of an intention to enter into a trade agreement, to report to the President, Congress, and the USTR on the effects of the trade agreement.

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Improvement Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a Federal Coordinated Health Care Office within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to bring together Medicare and Medicaid officials in order to: (1) integrate benefits more effectively under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) and SSA title XIX (Medicaid); and (2) improve coordination between the federal government and states for individuals dually eligible for benefits under both programs Amends Part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of SSA title XVIII to direct the HHS Secretary to: (1) offer one or more Medicare operated prescription drug plans with a service area consisting of the entire United States; and (2) enter into negotiations with pharmaceutical manufacturers to reduce the purchase cost of covered part D drugs for eligible part D individuals who enroll in such a plan. Provides a premium subsidy and cost-sharing for subsidy eligible individuals. Directs the Secretary to establish a formulary that meets certain requirements. Outlines accreditation requirements for all specialized Medicare Advantage plans. Revises requirements relating to specialized Medicare Advantage plans for special needs individuals. Requires continuous updating of eligibility and enrollment data for dual eligible individuals, continuity of prescription drug coverage for such individuals, and collection and sharing of drug utilization data and formulary information for them. Requires each contractor under the HHS Point of Sale Facilitated Enrollment process to enroll full-benefit dual eligible individuals into a Medicare operated prescription drug plan. Requires the Secretary to lower covered part D drug prices on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries by: (1) negotiating directly with pharmaceutical manufacturers for additional discounts, rebates, and other price concessions; (2) entering into rebate agreements with manufacturers; (3) educating physicians and pharmacists on the comparative clinical effectiveness of covered part D drugs; and (4) instituting prescription drug prices negotiated under the Federal Supply Schedule of the General Services Administration (GSA) for the reimbursement of covered part D drugs. Revises requirements for the financial assistance available to low-income Medicare beneficiaries, including those related to enrollment, a Medicare plan complaint system, and use of a single, uniform exceptions and appeals process.

Internet Poker and Game of Skill Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Internet Poker and Game of Skill Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act of 2009 - Prescribes federal administrative and licensing requirements governing Internet game-of-skill facilities. Vests the Secretary of the Treasury with regulatory and enforcement jurisdiction over such facilities. Prohibits any person from operating an Internet game-of-skill facility that knowingly accepts bets or wagers from persons located in the United States without a license issued by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to impose: (1) fees upon licensees to cover the cost of administering this Act; and (2) specified civil money penalties for willful violation of this Act or related regulations. Cites safeguards required of licensees, including: (1) collection of customer and licensee taxes related to Internet games of skill or game-of-skill facilities; (2) safeguards against fraud, money laundering, and terrorist finance; and (3) safeguards to prevent compulsive Internet betting or wagering. Requires the Secretary to prescribe regulations for: (1) development of a Problem Gaming, Responsible Gaming, and Self-Exclusion Program; (2) establishment of a list of persons self-excluded from gaming activities at licensee sites; and (3) a public awareness program about the availability of the self-exclusion list. Prohibits a person who is prohibited from gaming with a licensee from collecting any winnings or recovering any losses that arise as a result of prohibited gaming activity. Shields a financial transaction provider from liability for engaging in financial activities or transactions in connection with bets permitted under this Act and the Interstate Horseracing Act of 1978, unless the provider knows or has reason to know they violate federal or state law. Permits states and Indian tribal authorities to opt-out of Internet gaming activities. Prohibits wagers on games of chance and sporting events. Prohibits electronic cheating devices. Requires the Director of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to give the Secretary a list of unlawful Internet gambling enterprises. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose upon licensees: (1) a federal Internet gaming license fee;(2) a state or Indian tribal government gaming license fee; and (3) specified tax return and recordkeeping requirements. Establishes the State and Indian Tribal Government Gaming License Fee Trust Fund. Subjects to tax withholding parimutuel pool winnings and net Internet gaming winnings (including those of nonresident aliens). Exempts certain gaming proceeds from taxation by either a state or Indian Tribal Government receiving appropriations from the Trust Fund. Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize: (1) treatment programs for pathological gambling; and (2) grants for comprehensive education, prevention and treatment services for problem and pathological gaming. Directs the Secretary to carry out a national campaign to increase public awareness of problem gambling.

Rural Physician Pipeline Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Rural Physician Pipeline Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to establish a program to make grants to accredited schools of allopathic or osteopathic medicine to: (1) assist such schools in recruiting students most likely to practice medicine in underserved rural communities; (2) provide rural-focused training and experience; and (3) increase the number of recent allopathic and osteopathic medical school graduates who practice in underserved rural communities. Requires the Secretary to convene a Rural Training Program Symposium to: (1) develop best practices for such schools; and (2) establish a network of medical schools that have developed or will develop rural training programs.

Long-Term Care Insurance Consumer Right-to-Know Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Long-Term Care Insurance Consumer Right-to-Know Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to request the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to issue a white paper with its results from the following activities: (1) review and describe disclosure requirements for long-term care insurance policies under the long-term care insurance model regulation and model act promulgated by NAIC (as adopted as of October 2000 and December 2006), (2) review and describe disclosure requirements for long-term care insurance policies under state laws, (3) review and describe differences in long-term care services among states and develop a standardized definition of long-term care services, and (4) identify and describe key issues to consider in the development of a proposed model form for marketing long-term care insurance policies. Directs the Secretary to request NAIC to: (1) establish a Working Group to develop and issue a model disclosure form for marketing long-term care insurance policies, and (2) amend the model regulation and model act to require the use of such form. Requires the Secretaries of the Treasury and HHS to promulgate regulations requiring issuers of a qualified long-term care insurance contract under certain tax-qualified or Medicaid Partnership policies to use the model form for marketing such contracts. Directs each state to require any issuer of a long-term care insurance policy to use the model form for marketing a policy.

Long Term Care Insurance Integrity Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009

Long Term Care Insurance Integrity Act of 2009 - Requires an insurance issuer that offers a long-term care insurance plan to implement claims dispute resolution procedures that: (1) are designed to expeditiously resolve disputes; (2) provide for alternative means of dispute resolution involving independent third-party review by entities that are mutually acceptable to the issuer and the enrollee, with the reviewer's decision being binding on the issuer; and (3) ensure that an enrollee is eligible to obtain claims review only to the extent and in the manner provided for in the applicable insurance contract. Allows an enrollee to appeal the decision of an independent reviewer to an appropriate state court as provided for under state law.