Healthcare

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2007 - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to require the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct a study that: (1) describes the science concerning the disease mechanisms and health effects of exposure to asbestos and other biopersistent durable fibers and methods for measuring and analyzing asbestos; (2) describes labeling practices relating to asbestos-containing material; and (3) recommends future asbestos-related disease research and exposure assessment practice needs. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations that prohibit the importing, manufacturing, processing, or distributing of asbestos-containing products, subject to limited exemption upon petition and specified exemptions sought by the Department of Defense (DOD) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Requires the disposal of asbestos-containing products within two years. Exempts products that are no longer in the stream of commerce or that are in the possession of an end user. Requires the Administrator to establish a plan to: (1) increase awareness of the dangers posed by asbestos-containing products and contaminants in homes and workplaces and by asbestos-related diseases; (2) provide information to, and encourage participation in research and treatment endeavors by, asbestos-related disease patients and their families and front-line health care providers; and (3) encourage health care providers and researchers to provide to patients and their families information relating to research, diagnostic, and clinical treatments relating to asbestos. Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and coordinate research programs on diseases caused by asbestos exposure, particularly mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural injuries; (2) provide for establishment of a national clearinghouse for data and specimens relating to asbestos-related diseases; (3) require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish an asbestos-related disease research and treatment network; and (4) direct the Secretary to support research on mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases that is directly relevant to the health of the Armed Forces.

School Environment Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

School Environment Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) establish a National School Integrated Pest Management Advisory System to develop and update uniform standards and criteria for implementing integrated pest management systems in schools; (2) establish a National School Integrated Pest Management Advisory Board; and (3) provide grants to local educational agencies to develop such systems. Prohibits: (1) the application of a pesticide when a school or school ground is occupied or in use; or (2) the use of an area or room treated by a pesticide, other than a least toxic pesticide, during the 24-hour period beginning at the end of the treatment. Requires each local educational agency or school to provide notice of the integrated pest management system of the school district at the beginning of each school year and to give prior notice of any use of a pesticide (other than a least toxic pesticide). Prescribes procedures to be followed if a pest cannot be controlled after having used an integrated pest management system and least toxic pesticides. Prescribes civil penalties for violations of this Act. Establishes the Integrated Pest Management Trust Fund to carry out education, training, propagation, and development activities under school integrated pest management systems. Prohibits, any later than six years after this Act's enactment, the use of any pesticide other than a least toxic pesticide in schools unless the Administrator has met the requirements of this Act. Prohibits the Administrator from removing any pesticide that is included on the list of pesticides exempted from regulation under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act or refusing to add a pesticide to such list solely on the grounds that the pesticide is claimed to be able to be used to control a public health pest.

Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act of 2007 - Amends SSA title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) to: (1) continue entitlement to prescription drugs used in immunosuppressive therapy furnished to an individual who receives a kidney transplant for which payment is made under Medicare; and (2) extend Medicare secondary payer requirements for end stage renal disease (ESRD) beneficiaries. Amends title XVIII (Medicare ) of SSA to apply special rules to kidney transplant recipients receiving additional coverage for immunosuppressive drugs. Deems such individual to be enrolled under Medicare part B. Makes him or her responsible for the full amount of the applicable premiums. Applies deductible and coinsurance requirements to the provision of such drugs. Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code to set forth requirements for group health plans to provide coverage of immunosuppressive drugs for kidney transplant patients.

Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act - Requires the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention to make grants to enable public and private nonprofit entities to determine whether educating youth about meth mouth (oral decay that is commonly associated with methamphetamine use) is an effective strategy for preventing or reducing methamphetamine use. Reserves a portion of appropriated funds for Indian tribes and tribal organizations. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and intensify the clinical research, health services research, and public health research on associations between substance use disorders, oral health, and the provision of dental care. Requires the Secretary to study the effect methamphetamine use has on the demand for, and provision of, dental care. Directs the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support training and offer technical assistance to ensure that dentists and allied dental personnel are prepared to: (1) recognize signs of alcohol or drug addiction; (2) discuss the nature of substance abuse as it relates to their area of expertise; (3) understand how certain dental therapies can affect the relapse potential of substance dependent patients; and (4) help those affected by a substance use disorder find appropriate treatment for their conditions. Authorizes the Administrator to collaborate with professional accrediting bodies to develop and support substance abuse training courses for oral health professionals.

Medicare Safe Needle Disposal Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Medicare Safe Needle Disposal Coverage Act of 2007 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover as a part D drug any devices approved for home use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the safe and effective removal, decontamination, and disposal of needles and the disposal of needles and syringes through a sharps-by-mail or similar program as medically appropriate based on volume of usage.

Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to require the Director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics to: (1) include in criminal justice system statistics data about the oral health of federal inmates and dental care provided in federal correctional facilities; and (2) conduct a study on how methampehtamine use affects the demand for (and provision of) oral health care in such facilities. Provides for Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to states and local, territorial, and tribal governments for: (1) oral health dental programs for federal inmates; (2) evaluating the extent to which poor oral health undermines or impedes an inmate's successful reentry into the community; and (3) establishing adult and juvenile offender reentry demonstration projects for inmate oral health programs during incarceration and after release.

Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Reauthorizes the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) (also known as SCHIP) under title XXI of the Social Security Act (SSA) through FY2012. Provides allotments for the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Revises funding for the territories under CHIP and Medicaid (SSA title XIX). Provides incentive bonuses for states. Phases out coverage for nonpregnant childless adults under CHIP and sets conditions for coverage of parents. Gives states the option to cover low-income pregnant women under CHIP through a state plan amendment. Establishes in the Treasury the CHIP Contingency Fund. Provides for the two-year availability of allotments. Provides for limitation on matching rate for states that propose to cover children with effective family income exceeding 300% of the poverty line. Provides an option for qualifying states to receive the enhanced portion of the CHIP matching rate for Medicaid coverage of certain children. Outlines outreach and enrollment requirements, including ones for reducing administrative barriers to enrollment.. Gives states the option to verify declaration of citizenship or nationality for purposes of eligibility for Medicaid through verification of name and Social Security number. Provides for additional state option for providing premium assistance. Provides for special enrollment period under group health plans in case of termination of Medicaid or CHIP coverage or eligibility for assistance in purchase of employment-based coverage. Provides for development of an initial core set of health care quality measures for children enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP. Revises requirements related to payment error rate measurement and data collection. Provides for mental health parity in CHIP plans. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award dental health grants. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for an increase in excise tax rate on tobacco products. Amends the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 with respect to time for payment of corporate estimated taxes.

Healthy Start Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Healthy Start Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to consider certain criteria in making grants under the Healthy Start Initiative, including: (1) factors that contribute to infant mortality, such as low birthweight; and (2) the extent to which applicants for grants facilitate a community-based approach to the delivery of services and a comprehensive approach to women's health care to improve perinatal outcomes. Provides that the Secretary is not prohibited from awarding grants for special projects that are intended to address significant disparities in perinatal health indicators in communities along the United States-Mexico border, or in Alaska, Hawaii, or any U.S. possession or territory. Eliminates authority for the Secretary to make additional grants to: (1) assist communities with technical assistance, replication of successful projects, and state policy formation to reduce infant and maternal mortality and morbidity; and (2) conduct and support research and to provide additional health care services for pregnant women and infants. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2013 for the Healthy Start Initiative.

Medicare Safe Needle Disposal Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Medicare Safe Needle Disposal Coverage Act of 2007 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover as a part D drug any devices approved for home use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the safe and effective removal, decontamination, and disposal of needles and the disposal of needles and syringes through a sharps-by-mail or similar program as medically appropriate based on volume of usage.

Universal Health Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2007

Universal Health Coverage Act of 2007 - Requires each U.S. citizen or national or alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence to have qualified health coverage, unless such individual is opposed for religious reasons to health coverage. Defines "qualified health coverage" to include federal health plans, group health plans, and other appropriate coverage. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop at least three types of low-cost health insurance plans for each state and the District of Columbia that shall be made available, on a guaranteed-issue basis, to all individuals with incomes below 400% of the federal poverty line. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose on each individual who is required but fails to have qualified health coverage for any continuous period of more than 60 days a monthly tax in an amount equal to the average monthly premium for qualified health coverage in the state in which the individual resides. Requires amounts collected to be used by the Secretary to cover the cost of a automatically enrolling individuals who pay such tax in health care coverage under one of the three lowest cost qualified health coverage products offered in the state.

Prescribe A Book Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2007

Prescribe A Book Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to establish a Pediatric Early Literacy program under which the Secretary of Education awards matching grants to nonprofit organizations for the implementation of three-part models through which: (1) health care providers encourage parents to read aloud to their children and offer them recommendations and strategies for doing so; (2) health care providers give each visiting child between the ages of six months and five-years a new, developmentally appropriate children's book to take home and keep; and (3) volunteers reading to children in health care facility waiting areas show parents the techniques and pleasures of reading aloud to children. Requires that the books provided to children under the program be obtained at a discount.

TAC Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2007

Trade Advisory Committee Reform Act or the TAC Act - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to: (1) revise the selection process for congressional advisers for trade policy and negotiations; and (2) expand the duties of such congressional advisers, including to provide recommendations to executive officials on trade agreement effects and to provide for the appointment of members to a trade advisory committee. Establishes a Public Health Advisory Committee on Trade.

Wounded Warriors Expansion of Care Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2007

Wounded Warriors Expansion of Care Act of 2007 - Entitles any recovering member and any former member with a severe injury or illness to medical and dental care in any military medical facility or through any civilian health care provider authorized by the Secretary of Defense to provide health and mental health services, including services for traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. Authorizes such medical and dental care for three years beginning on the date: (1) of enactment of this Act, for those whose injury or illness was incurred on or after October 7, 2001, and before the enactment of this Act; and (2) on which the injury or illness is incurred, for those whose injury or illness occurs on or after the enactment of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to waive any limitation on the provision of such care if considered appropriate to assure the maximum feasible recovery and rehabilitation of the member or former member. Prohibits the Secretary from providing such medical and dental care after December 31, 2012, if the Secretary has not provided such care to such member or former member before that date. Entitles members with a severe injury or illness to rehabilitation and vocational benefits from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to reimburse recovering members and former members with a severe injury or illness for certain expenses incurred in connection with the receipt of required medical care.

Medicaid Prostate Cancer Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2007

Medicaid Prostate Cancer Coverage Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for optional Medicaid coverage of certain prostate cancer patients.

Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to reauthorize the SCHIP program through FY2012. Provides for the determination of allotments for the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Revises funding requirements for the territories under SCHIP and Medicaid (SSA title XIX). Establishes in the Treasury the CHIP Incentive Bonuses Pool, from which incentive bonuses may be paid to states. Provides for phase-out of SCHIP coverage for nonpregnant childless adults. Prescribes terms and conditions for coverage of parents of targeted low-income children. Gives states the option to cover low-income pregnant women under SCHIP through a state plan amendment. Establishes in the Treasury the CHIP Contingency Fund. Revises requirements for the availability of allotments. Places a limitation on the matching rate for states that propose to cover children with effective family income that exceeds 300% of the poverty line. Provides qualifying states the option to receive the enhanced portion of the SCHIP matching rate for Medicaid coverage of certain children. Provides for grants for outreach and enrollment. Directs the Secretary to establish a demonstration program under which states shall be authorized to rely on findings by an Express Lane agency to determine whether a child has met Medicaid or SCHIP eligibility requirements. Gives states the option to verify a declaration of U.S. citizenship or nationality for purposes of Medicaid eligibility through verification of name and Social Security number. Provides for reducing administrative barriers to enrollment under SCHIP and to providing premium assistance. Provides for coordinating premium assistance with private coverage. Requires development of child health care quality measures. Revises requirements regarding: (1) payment error rate measurement (PERM); (2) improvement of data collection; (3) mental health parity in CHIP plans; and (4) application of the prospective payment system (PPS) to services provided by federally-qualified health centers and rural health clinics. Requires the Secretary to make dental health grants to states. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the excise rate on tobacco products. Amends the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 with respect to the time for payment of corporate estimated taxes.

Accountability and Transparency in Medicare Marketing Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Accountability and Transparency in Medicare Marketing Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to request the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to develop standardized marketing requirements for Medicare Advantage organizations with respect to Medicare Advantage plans and prescription drug plan (PDP) sponsors with respect to Medicare PDPs. Requires such requirements to prohibit certain activities including the cross-selling of non-Medicare products or services with products or services offered by a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare PDP. Provides for state certification prior to waiver of licensing requirements under the Medicare PDP. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to request NAIC to establish a committee to study and make recommendations to the Secretary and Congress on the establishment of standardized benefit packages for Medicare Advantage plans and for Medicare PDPs and their regulation.

Medicare Access to Critical Medications Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Medicare Access to Critical Medications Act of 2007 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require prescription drug plan (PDP) formularies to include all or substantially all covered part D drugs in the therapeutic classes: (1) anticonvulsants; (2) antineoplastics; (3) antiretrovirals; (4) antidepressants; (5) antipsychotics; and (6) immunosuppressants. Prohibits the application of a utilization management tool, such as prior authorization or step therapy, to such drugs in certain cases. Prescribes requirements for treatment of such drugs when a determination or reconsideration is requested, as well as the treatment of appeals for such drugs. Establishes data reporting requirements for such drug categories and classes.

Public Health Preparedness Workforce Development Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Public Health Preparedness Workforce Development Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Public Health Workforce Scholarship Program to assure an adequate supply of public health professionals to eliminate critical public health preparedness workforce shortages in federal, state, local, and tribal public health agencies by offering four-year scholarships in return for employment at such agencies. Requires the Secretary to establish the Public Health Workforce Loan Repayment Program to provide for the repayment of loans incurred by individuals in the pursuit of the relevant public health preparedness workforce educational degree or certificate in exchange for working at such agencies for at least three years. Requires the Secretary to award grants to public health agencies that receive public health preparedness cooperative agreements from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to operate state, local, and tribal public health workforce loan repayment programs. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, any eligible entity to award scholarships to eligible individuals to enroll in degree or professional training programs for the purpose of enabling mid-career professionals in the public health workforce to receive additional training in the field of public health preparedness or biodefense. Requires the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), in cooperation with the Secretary, to ensure that included in the OPM website there is an online catalogue, or a link to an online catalogue, of public health workforce employment opportunities in the federal government.

Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to require the Director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics to: (1) include in criminal justice system statistics data about the oral health of federal inmates and dental care provided in federal correctional facilities; and (2) conduct a study on how methampehtamine use affects the demand for (and provision of) oral health care in such facilities. Provides for Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to states and local, territorial, and tribal governments for: (1) oral health dental programs for federal inmates; (2) evaluating the extent to which poor oral health undermines or impedes an inmate's successful reentry into the community; and (3) establishing adult and juvenile offender reentry demonstration projects for inmate oral health programs during incarceration and after release.

Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act - Requires the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention to make grants to enable public and private nonprofit entities to determine whether educating youth about meth mouth (oral decay that is commonly associated with methamphetamine use) is an effective strategy for preventing or reducing methamphetamine use. Reserves a portion of appropriated funds for Indian tribes and tribal organizations. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and intensify the clinical research, health services research, and public health research on associations between substance use disorders, oral health, and the provision of dental care. Requires the Secretary to study the effect methamphetamine use has on the demand for, and provision of, dental care. Directs the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support training and offer technical assistance to ensure that dentists and allied dental personnel are prepared to: (1) recognize signs of alcohol or drug addiction; (2) discuss the nature of substance abuse as it relates to their area of expertise; (3) understand how certain dental therapies can affect the relapse potential of substance dependent patients; and (4) help those affected by a substance use disorder find appropriate treatment for their conditions. Authorizes the Administrator to collaborate with professional accrediting bodies to develop and support substance abuse training courses for oral health professionals.

Access to Community Pharmacy Preservation Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Access to Community Pharmacy Preservation Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to require states to pay dispensing fees for Medicaid covered outpatient drugs. Directs a state which provides medical assistance for covered outpatient drugs to establish a minimum Medicaid dispensing fee of at least $8 per unit for covered outpatient multiple source drugs. Revises the requirement for application of the federal upper pharmacy reimbursement limit in the calculation of the payment for covered outpatient drugs. Increases from 250% to 300% the percentage of the average manufacturer price (AMP) the Secretary of Health and Human Services is required to substitute for 150% of the published price. Repeals the state option to increase the cap on the equity asset test for an individual's eligibility for long-term care assistance under Medicaid. Directs the Secretary, for purposes of verifying financial eligibility for Medicaid, to collaborate with the Commissioner of Social Security for use of the Commissioner's system for obtaining information held by financial institutions in order to verify eligibility for benefits under SSA title VI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI).

Pregnant Women Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Pregnant Women Support Act - Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to make grants to states for collecting and reporting abortion surveillance data. Requires health facilities that perform abortions to obtained informed consent from a pregnant woman seeking an abortion. Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to allow states to extend health care coverage to an unborn child. Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit a health insurance issuer offering individual coverage from imposing a preexisting condition exclusion or a waiting period or otherwise discriminating against a woman on the basis that she is pregnant. Allows the Secretary to make grants for the purchase of ultrasound equipment for examinations of pregnant women. Provides for the collection and dissemination of information on Down syndrome and other prenatally diagnosed conditions. Provides for services to pregnant women who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking. Requires states to require a pregnancy determination for homicide victims. Requires the Secretary to make grants to increase public awareness of resources available to pregnant women and new parents. Allows the Secretary to make grants to public institutions of higher education to establish and operate pregnant and parenting student services offices. Requires the Secretary to provide for programs to work with pregnant or parenting teens to complete high school. Requires group homes for pregnant and parenting women to provide counseling on adoption and parenting skills. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase and make refundable the tax credit for adoption expenses. Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to increase the eligibility threshold for food stamps.

HEARING ON VA HEALTH CARE FUNDING ISSUES

United States · United States Senate · 25 July 2007

Improving Emergency Medical Care and Response Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

Improving Emergency Medical Care and Response Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting though the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, to award contracts or competitive grants to support demonstration programs that design, implement, and evaluate innovative models of regionalized, comprehensive, and accountable emergency care systems. Requires the Secretary to give priority to entities that serve a population in a medically underserved area. Directs the Secretary to: (1) support federal programs involved in improving the emergency care system to expand and accelerate research in emergency medical care systems and emergency medicine; and (2) support research to determine the estimated economic impact of, and savings that result from, the implementation of coordinated emergency care systems.

SCHIP Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

SCHIP Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2007 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to require the state SCHIP plan to specify how it will achieve coverage for 90% of targeted low-income children. Prohibits SCHIP payments for children with family income above 250% of the poverty line. Sets forth special rules for payment for children with family income above 200% of the poverty line. Provides for: (1) standardization of income determinations; (2) the application of citizenship documentation requirements; (3) an increased federal matching rate for citizenship documentation enforcement under Medicaid and SCHIP; and (4) temporary increase in federal matching rate for Medicaid and SCHIP administrative costs. Sets limitations on eligibility based on substantial net assets. Provides for easing administrative barriers to state cooperation with employer-sponsored insurance coverage. Requires the offering of alternative coverage options. Revises requirements for allotments to the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Prohibits redistribution of unused allotments. Reauthorizes SCHIP through FY2012.

Improving Emergency Medical Care and Response Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

Improving Emergency Medical Care and Response Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting though the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, to award matching contracts or competitive grants to support demonstration programs that design, implement, and evaluate innovative models of regionalized, comprehensive, and accountable emergency care systems. Requires the Secretary to give priority to entities that serve a medically underserved population. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary, to enter into a contract with an academic institution or other entity to conduct an independent evaluation of the demonstration programs funded under this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) support federal programs involved in improving the emergency care system to expand and accelerate research in emergency medical care systems and emergency medicine; and (2) support research to determine the estimated economic impact of, and savings that result from, the implementation of coordinated emergency care systems.

Fast Track for Healthy Children Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

Fast Track for Healthy Children Act of 2007 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) to give states the option to rely on findings from an Express Lane agency to conduct simplified Medicaid and SCHIP eligibility determinations for children.

Expressing the sense of Congress regarding the need for further study of the neurological disorder dysnia.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

Urges the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to take a leadership role in the fight against the neurological disorder dystonia. Calls for: (1) increased funding for basic biomedical research for dystonia and other neurological disorders through NIH; (2) additional research to identify an accurate diagnostic test for dystonia and an epidemiological study to determine the frequency of the disease; (3) improved patient access to safe and effective dystonia therapies; and (4) increased public awareness and professional education regarding dystonia through partnerships between the government and patient advocacy organizations.

Healthy Americans Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2007

Healthy Americans Act - Requires each adult individual to have the opportunity to purchase a Healthy Americans Private Insurance Plan (HAPI). 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 offered through their state of residence. 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. 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 and the State Children's Health Insurance program (SCHIP). Enhanced Health Care Value for All Act of 2007 - Provides for a Comparative Effectiveness Advisory Board and a Health Care Comparative Effectiveness Research Trust Fund.

Children's Health and Medicare Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2007

Children's Health and Medicare Protection Act of 2007 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise requirements for: (1) SCHIP allotments; (2) enrollment and retention of eligible children; (3) child-centered coverage; (4) optional coverage of older children, legal immigrants, and certain pregnant women; (5) program access (including creation of a Children's Access, Payment, and Equality Commission); and (6) quality and program integrity. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) with respect to: (1) specified benefits; (2) financial assistance for low-income beneficiaries; (3) prescription drugs, formularies, and compendia; and (3) measures, including demonstration projects, for reducing health disparities. Revises requirements for: (1) physicians' service payments; and (2) Medicare Advantage (MA), including payments, beneficiary protections, quality measures, and extension of certain authorities. Renames the Medicare Advantage program the Medicare Part C program. Revises provisions relating to Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance), including inpatient hospital payment updates and long-term care hospitals. Revises specified payment and coverage requirements relating to Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) and extends certain Medicare rural access protections. Revises requirements for the end stage renal disease (ESRD) program, including kidney disease patient education services. Prescribes hospital requirements to limit one of the exceptions to the prohibition on certain physician referrals for hospitals. Revises certain requirements relating to both Medicare parts A and B, particularly concerning home health services. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) with respect to certain coverages, including family planning services, and payments. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a demonstration project for employer buy-in under which up to 10 States may provide, under their SCHIP plans, for child health assistance in relation to family coverage for children who would be targeted low-income children but for coverage as beneficiaries under a group health plan as the children of participants by virtue of a qualifying employer's contribution. Provides funding for diabetes grants. Revises certain requirements with respect to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC). Directs the Secretary to establish within the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality a Center for Comparative Effectiveness Research and a Coordinating Council for Health Services Research. Establishes in the Treasury the Health Care Comparative Effectiveness Research Trust Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the rate of excise taxes on tobacco products and cigarette papers and tubes. Exempts from the excise tax on fuels certain liquid fuels used in connection with emergency medical services transportation.

Saving Our Community Pharmacies Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2007

Saving Our Community Pharmacies Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for: (1) use of median retail acquisition cost as the basis for Medicaid reimbursement limits on generic drugs; and (2) establishment of an evidence-based prescription drug program. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on the costs of community retail pharmacies to dispense prescription drugs.

Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to award grants to eligible entities to provide education and training in newborn screening and congenital, genetic, and metabolic disorders to health care professionals and newborn screening laboratory personnel. Adds as a condition for eligibility for grants for screening, counseling, or health care services to newborns and children having, or at risk for, heritable disorders that an entity assure that it has or is implementing guidelines and recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children. Requires the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children to: (1) make recommendations that include the heritable disorders for which all newborns should be screened; and (2) develop a model decision-matrix for newborn screening program expansion. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to: (1) establish a central clearinghouse for information on newborn screening; and (2) award grants for newborn screening educational programs and for a system to assess and coordinate treatment relating to congenital, genetic, and metabolic disorders. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to provide for: (1) quality assurance for screening laboratories; (2) population-based pilot testing for evaluating new screening tools; and (3) a national contingency plan for newborn screening in the event of a public health emergency. Requires the Secretary, acting through an Interagency Group, to: (1) collect, analyze, and make available data on certain heritable disorders; (2) operate regional centers to conduct applied epidemiological research on interventions to prevent poor health outcomes from such disorders; and (3) research and promote the prevention of poor health outcomes. Requires the Secretary to establish the Hunter Kelly Newborn Screening Research Program.

Trade and Globalization Adjustment Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Trade and Globalization Adjustment Assistance Act of 2007 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to allow the filing of a petition with the Secretary of Labor for certification of eligibility to apply for trade adjustment assistance (TAA) by adversely affected workers in a service sector firm, its subdivision, or a public agency. Revises group eligibility requirements for TAA to cover: (1) a shift, by a public agency to a foreign country, of production of articles or in provision of services, like or directly competitive with articles which are produced, or services which are provided by the workers' firm, subdivision, or public agency; and (2) instances where the workers' firm, subdivision, or public agency obtains or is likely to obtain such services from a foreign country. Provides for industry-wide certification of adversely affected workers for TAA. Increases the amount of payments for training of adversely affected workers under the Act. TAA Health Coverage Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the tax credit for the health insurance costs of certain TAA workers and Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) pension recipients. Sets forth requirements to prevent a lapse of health care coverage for TAA workers and their families. Replaces alternative trade adjustment assistance for older workers provisions with eligibility requirements for wage insurance benefits to older workers who have received an industry-wide certification to apply for TAA. Increases the maximum allowance to cover costs of an adversely affected worker for job search expenses and relocation expenses. Establishes an Office of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Ombudsman. Extends the TAA program for workers through December 31, 2012. Revises the TAA program for communities negatively impacted by trade. Establishes a TAA for communities program to coordinate the federal response. Allows the filing of a petition with the Secretary of Commerce for certification of eligibility to apply for TAA by a service sector firm. Extends the TAA program for firms through FY2012. Makes fishermen and aquaculture producers eligible for TAA without regard to whether such fishermen seek TAA based on an increase in imports of wild stock or an increase of imports of farm-raised stock. Revises TAA group eligibility requirements for certain agricultural commodity producers. Extends the TAA program for farmers through FY2012.

Stop Senior Suicide Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Stop Senior Suicide Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an Interagency Geriatric Mental Health Planning Council to coordinate and collaborate on the planning for the delivery of mental health services, to include suicide prevention, to older adults. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to remove provisions that limit payment for the treatment of mental, psychoneurotic, and personality disorders of an individual who is not an inpatient of a hospital at the time such expenses are incurred. Requires the Secretary to award grants or cooperative agreements to eligible entities to develop strategies for addressing suicide among the elderly. Revises provisions requiring centers to provide appropriate information, training, and technical assistance on youth suicide to require such information, training, and assistance on suicide among all ages, particularly for groups that are at a high risk for suicide. Authorizes additional appropriations to carry out such changes.

Medicare Savings Program Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Medicare Savings Program Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to the Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) and Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries (SLMB) programs (Medicare Savings Program) to increase the income eligibility levels for: (1) QMBs to 135% of the federal poverty level (FPL); and (2) SLMBs to 150% of the FPL. Eliminates the application of estate recovery for Medicare Savings Program beneficiaries. Modifies the asset tests for QMBs and SLMBs. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for expedited enrollment under the Medicare Savings Program through Social Security offices. Provides for treatment of QMBs, SLMBs, and other dual eligibles as Medicare beneficiaries. Amends SSA title XIX with respect to Medicaid treatment of certain Medicare providers. Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services to examine and report on whether providers have attempted to make QMBs liable for deductibles, coinsurance, and co-payments in violation of applicable law. Requires the Secretary to report an enforcement plan of action to Congress regarding any QMBs that have been held so liable in violation of law. Requires states to provide medical assistance to dual eligibles in MedicareAdvantage (MA) plans.

Enhanced Methamphetamine Treatment Grants Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Enhanced Methamphetamine Treatment Grants Assistance Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to award grants for wraparound services, including medical services, job training service, housing assistance, and training in parenting, for methamphetamine infected individuals who: (1) resided in a residential treatment facility for the treatment of methamphetamine abuse or addiction; or (2) received treatment for methamphetamine abuse or addiction from an intensive outpatient treatment facility. Changes the program for substance abuse for pregnant and postpartum women to a program for treatment of substance abuse for caregiver parents, including pregnant women. Requires grantees to give priority to programs that provide services to caregiver parents who are pregnant and postpartum women. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to award grants to assist local jails and detention facilities in providing comprehensive, family-based substance abuse treatment services to pregnant and parenting adults who are considered nonviolent offenders. Sets forth requirements if such a grant is used for a family drug treatment program that is an alternative to incarceration. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to award grants for services in connection with the treatment of methamphetamine use or addiction to underserved populations. Requires the Secretary, through the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, to conduct a study to identify and evaluate methamphetamine use and addiction treatment methodologies.

Safe Nursing and Patient Care Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2007

Safe Nursing and Patient Care Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to place limitations on mandatory overtime for nurses, prohibit retaliation against them in any manner with respect to any aspect of employment, and establish civil money penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study and report to Congress on standards to establish for the maximum number of hours that a nurse may work without compromising the safety of patients. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to study and report to Congress on the extent to which federally operated medical facilities have in effect practices and policies for overtime requirements for nurses that are inconsistent with the requirements added by this Act.

HEALTH Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Help End Addiction to Lethal Tobacco Habits Act or the HEALTH Act - Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act and the Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 to make changes to annual reporting requirements relating to ingredients added to tobacco in the manufacture of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. Requires the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, to develop standards and best practices for: (1) the sampling of tobacco, smokeless tobacco, and tobacco products; and (2) accurate measurement and analysis of tobacco constituents. Makes changes to the Surgeon General's Warning on the packages of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, including the content, size, and location of such warnings. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to conduct a survey on the usage of tobacco products. Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish an allowance system to reduce the sale of U.S. tobacco products. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make changes to the excise tax on cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco. Establishes a classification system for tobacco products based on their level of health risks. Requires the Secretary to establish the Tobacco Risk Classification Panel to make recommendations concerning such classification. Authorizes the Secretary to prohibit the introduction into interstate commerce of any product that contains nicotine if such product has no health benefits. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to carry out a campaign of counter-advertising with respect to tobacco use. Provides for coverage of tobacco cessation products and programs.

Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, to establish a Hospital Quality Report Card Initiative under the Medicare program to report on health care quality in subsection (d) hospitals. Directs the Administrator to establish the Hospital Quality Advisory Committee to advise on the submission, collection, and reporting of quality measures data.

Pharmacist Access and Recognition in Medicare (PhARM) Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Pharmacist Access and Recognition in Medicare (PhARM) Act of 2007 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require prompt payment of clean claims to pharmacies by prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans. Defines prompt payment as within 14 days from submission for claims submitted electronically, and within 30 days for claims submitted otherwise. Requires payment of interest, also, if a payment is not issued, mailed, or otherwise transmitted within the applicable number of calendar days. Prohibits a Medicare prescription drug card issued by a prescription drug plan sponsor from displaying the name, brand, or trademark (co-branding) of any pharmacy. Revises requirements for a covered medication therapy management program, allowing it to be furnished by a health care provider, other than a pharmacist, with advanced training in medication management. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to specify: (1) the population of part D eligible individuals appropriate for services under a medication therapy management program, based on certain characteristics; and (2) a minimum defined package of medication therapy management services that shall be provided to each enrollee. Revises requirements for pharmacy fees. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a two-year demonstration program to examine the impact of medication therapy management furnished by a pharmacist in a community-based or ambulatory-based setting on quality of care, spending, and patient health; and (2) a Best Practices Commission to develop a best practices model for medication therapy management.

Prenatally Diagnosed Condition Awareness Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Prenatally Diagnosed Condition Awareness Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through either the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to authorize and oversee certain activities relating to Down syndrome or other prenatally diagnosed conditions, including the awarding of grants, contracts or cooperative agreements to: (1) collect, synthesize, and disseminate current scientific information; and (2) coordinate the provision of, and access to, supportive services for patients affected, which shall include a telephone hotline, an information clearinghouse, peer-support programs, and registries of families willing to adopt children affected by such conditions. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC, to provide assistance to state and local heath departments to integrate the results of prenatal testing into state-based vital statistics and birth defects surveillance programs. Directs the Secretary to ensure that a provider is only able to participate in activities under this Act if it provides assurances that it will provide a patient receiving a positive result from a prenatal test with certain information, including: (1) up-to-date scientific information concerning the life expectancy, clinical course, and intellectual and functional development and treatment options for a fetus diagnosed with, or a child born with, such conditions; and (2) referrals to supportive service providers. Requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congress concerning the effectiveness of current health care and family support programs serving as resources for the families of children with disabilities.

To increase the authorization for the major medical facility project to consolidate the medical centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs at the University Drive and H. John Heinz III divisions, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Amends the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 to increase the authorization of appropriations for a major medical facility project to consolidate the Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers at the University Drive and H. John Heinz III divisions in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Health Information Privacy and Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Health Information Privacy and Security Act - Requires a person who holds, uses, or discloses protected health information to: (1) permit an individual who is the subject of such information to inspect and copy the information; (2) establish safeguards and procedures to ensure the privacy, confidentiality, security, accuracy, and integrity of such information; and (3) establish and maintain a record of each protected health information disclosure. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to support demonstration projects to improve the communication of information pertaining to health privacy rights with individuals with limited English proficiency and limited health literacy. Prohibits any person from disclosing, accessing, or using protected health information, except as authorized under this Act. Requires the Secretary to develop and disseminate model written authorizations for the disclosure of such information. Provides for notice to an individual of a security breach with regard to protected health information. Sets forth purposes under which disclosure is permitted, including for public health, health oversight, and law enforcement purposes. Directs the Secretary to designate the Office of Health Information Privacy to: (1) receive and investigate complaints of alleged violations of this Act; (2) provide guidance to health care providers and other relevant individuals concerning the interpretation and implementation of privacy protections; and (3) provide recommendations concerning improvements in the privacy and security of protected health information and concerning medical privacy research needs. Requires the Secretary to establish and implement standards for health information technology products. Sets forth criminal and civil penalties for knowing and intentional violations of this Act. Provides that this Act does not preempt federal or state laws or regulations that provide greater protections.

Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through either the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to authorize and oversee certain activities relating to Down syndrome or other prenatally or postnatally diagnosed conditions, including the awarding of grants, contracts or cooperative agreements to: (1) collect, synthesize, and disseminate current scientific information; and (2) coordinate the provision of, and access to, supportive services for patients affected. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC, to provide assistance to state and local heath departments to integrate the results of prenatal or postnatal testing into state-based vital statistics and birth defects surveillance programs. Prohibits such results from being reported unless the patient consents. Requires a health care provider to provide certain information to a patient who receives a positive test result from a prenatal or postnatal test for such a condition, including: (1) up-to-date scientific information concerning the life expectancy, clinical course, and intellectual and functional development and treatment options for a fetus diagnosed with, or a child born with, such conditions; and (2) referrals to supportive service providers. Requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congress concerning the effectiveness of current health care and family support programs serving as resources for the families of children with disabilities.

Patient Safety and Abuse Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Patient Safety and Abuse Prevention Act of 2007 - Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to provide for nationwide expansion of the pilot program for national and state background checks on direct patient access employees of long-term care facilities or providers. Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to: (1) require screening, including national criminal history background checks, of direct patient access employees of skilled nursing facilities, nursing facilities, and other long-term care facilities and providers; and (2) prohibit hiring of abusive workers. Requires the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to ensure that the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System of the FBI has the capacity to store and retrieve fingerprints from its database. Provides that, in the case where a direct patient access employee is convicted of a crime following the initial national criminal history background check, and the employee's fingerprint matches the prints on file with the FBI, the FBI shall inform the state law enforcement department in order for the state to inform the skilled nursing facility, nursing facility, or long-term care facility or provider of such conviction.

Skin Cancer Prevention, Education, and Consumer Right-To-Know Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Skin Cancer Prevention, Education, and Consumer Right-To-Know Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to deem a drug that is a sunscreen product whose labeling violates this Act to be adulterated. Prohibits the labeling of a drug that is a sunscreen product that fails to meet the standards adopted under this Act from: (1) describing the product using the term "broad-spectrum"; or (2) including a specified symbol adopted to indicate broad-spectrum. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to adopt: (1) a standard for broad-spectrum protection in sunscreen products; and (2) an easily recognized symbol for inclusion in the labeling of sunscreen products meeting such standards. Sets forth minimum standards that the Secretary shall adopt for such broad-spectrum protection, including a minimum ratio of UVA protection factor to sun protection factor, a minimum level of UVB radiation protection, and specified truth in labeling requirements. Requires sun protection factors to be measured using standardized, reproducible testing methods that take photo-degradation into account. Requires the Secretary to implement an education campaign identifying the risks posed by sun exposure without the use of a sunscreen providing broad-spectrum protection.

Patient and Pharmacy Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Patient and Pharmacy Protection Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007, to limit to Controlled Substances Act schedule II narcotics the use of tamper-resistant prescription pads required under the Medicaid program for payment of amounts expended for covered outpatient drugs.

Border Health Security Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Border Health Security Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary), acting through the U.S. members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission, to award grants to improve border residents' health. Requires the Secretary to award grants to states, local or tribal governments, trauma centers, regional trauma center coordinating entities, or public health entities for all hazards preparedness in the border area, including bioterrorism and infectious disease. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act. Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security in establishing a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to signs of health threats, disasters of mass scale, or bioterrorism along the border area. Requires the Secretary to enter into a contract with the Institute of Medicine for the study of binational health infrastructure (including trauma and emergency care) and health insurance efforts. Amends the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act to authorize any member or staff of the Commission to provide advice or recommendations to Congress concerning issues that are considered by the Commission.

National Agriculture and Food Defense Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

National Agriculture and Food Defense Act of 2007 - States that: (1) the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) shall lead federal, state, local, tribal, and private efforts to enhance the protection of critical U.S. infrastructure and key resources, including the agriculture and food system; (2) the Secretary of Agriculture shall lead federal efforts relating to agriculture, meat, poultry, and egg food products; (3) the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) shall lead federal efforts relating to other food products; and (4) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shall lead federal efforts relating to drinking water and waste water. Establishes in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): (1) a Chief Medical Officer who shall serve as the Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs; and (2) the agriculture and food defense rotational expertise program. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the position of Under Secretary for Protection, Preparedness, and Response. Directs the Secretary of HHS to coordinate the public health surveillance of zoonotic diseases. Directs the Secretary to: (1) prepare and submit to the appropriate congressional committees the national agriculture and food defense strategy; (2) carry out vulnerability assessments of the agriculture and food system; (3) implement mitigation strategies to protect critical production and processing nodes from diseases, pests, and poisonous agents; (3) ensure that combined federal, state, and local capabilities are adequate to respond to a terrorist attack, disease outbreak, or other disaster affecting the U.S. agriculture and food system; (4) assist the states with food and agriculture protection activities; and (5) establish the Food and Agriculture Government Coordinating Council. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) develop a national veterinary stockpile; (2) develop a national plant disease recovery system; (3) establish a National Veterinary Stockpile Advisory Committee; (4) carry out a program (Agricultural Biosecurity Corps) to develop veterinary leaders with epidemiological expertise to respond to animal agriculture threats; (5) develop a national plant diagnostic network; (6) develop a national food emergency response network; (7) develop a national animal health laboratory network; (8) identify an increased production capacity goal for the rendering industry to meet animal disposal needs following a catastrophic animal disease outbreak; and (9) conduct a study of irradiation technology use to enhance food defense capabilities. Directs the Secretaries concerned to submit an integrated food system defense budget. Directs the Administrator to provide assistance to state, local, and tribal governments in assessing, decontaminating, and recovering from an agriculture or food emergency.

To permit pass-through payment for reasonable costs of certified registered nurse anesthetist services in critical access hospitals notwithstanding the reclassification of such hospitals as urban hospitals, including hospitals located in "Lugar counties", and for on-call and standby costs for such services.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986, as amended by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1989, with respect to payments for reasonable costs of certified registered nurse anesthetist services in critical access hospitals. Declares that such hospitals shall be treated as being located in a rural area to permit pass-through of such payments, regardless of any geographic reclassification of the hospital, including reclassification as located in an urban county ("Lugar county"). Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to include on-call and standby costs in determining reasonable costs for such services.