Healthcare

Medicare Long-Term Care Patient Safety and Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Medicare Long-Term Care Patient Safety and Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to define "long-term care hospital" and establish new patient criteria for long-term care hospital prospective payments. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to approve under Medicare distinct part inpatient rehabilitation hospital units in long-term care hospitals, if rehabilitation services are not included within a major diagnostic category. Directs the Secretary to: (1) report to the appropriate congressional committees recommendations on the promulgation of national long-term care hospital facility and patient criteria; and (2), after rulemaking, implement them. Amends SSA title XI to require a peer review organization to review on a hospital-specific basis the medical necessity of admissions to, and continued stay at, long-term care hospitals of Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) patients. Directs the Secretary, with certain exceptions, to impose a temporary moratorium on the Medicare certification of new long-term care hospitals (and satellite facilities). Directs the Secretary not to apply the 25% patient threshold payment adjustment to freestanding and grandfathered long-term hospitals. States that payments to an applicable long-term care hospital or satellite facility, located in a rural area or co-located with an urban single or MSA dominant hospital, shall not be subject to any payment adjustment if no more than 75% percent of its Medicare discharges are admitted from a co-located hospital. Provides that payment to an applicable long-term care hospital or satellite facility co-located with another hospital shall not be subject to such payment adjustments, if no more than 50% of its Medicare discharges are admitted from a co-located hospital. Prohibits the Secretary from applying certain proposed amendments to the short-stay outlier payment policy for certain long-term care hospitals. Prohibits the Secretary from making a certain one-time prospective adjustment to long-term care hospital prospective payment rates. Directs the Secretary to study and report to the Congress on appropriate quality measures for Medicare patients receiving care in long-term care hospitals.

Medicare Part D Drug Class Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Medicare Part D Drug Class Protection Act of 2007 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require that Medicare prescription drug plans using formularies cover all drugs included in six specified therapeutic categories. Sets forth special requirements for reconsideration of coverage determinations, and appeals for drugs included in such categories. Establishes reporting requirements for drugs in these categories.

Colorectal Cancer Screening and Detection Coverage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Colorectal Cancer Screening and Detection Coverage Age of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code to require a group health plan to provide coverage for colorectal screening for any participant or beneficiary who is 50 years of age or older or at high risk for colorectal cancer under terms and conditions that are no less favorable than those applicable to other screening benefits provided under the plan. Prohibits specified actions by group health plans to avoid the requirements of this Act, including denying enrollment, penalizing the provision of required services, or providing incentives for care inconsistent with this Act. Requires such plan to provide certain disclosures to participants and beneficiaries, including regarding covered benefits, cost sharing, and participating providers. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to modify coverage requirements under this Act to incorporate new scientific and technological advances, practice pattern changes, or other updated medical practices regarding colorectal screening. Applies such requirements to health insurance coverage offered in the individual market and coverage under the federal employees health benefits program (FEHBP).

Communities of Color Teen Pregnancy Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Communities of Color Teen Pregnancy Prevention Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants for projects to prevent teen pregnancies in racial, ethnic minority, or immigrant communities with a substantial incidence or prevalence of cases of teen pregnancy compared to the average number in communities in the state. Allows the Secretary to make grants to: (1) carry out activities to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among teens; (2) provide necessary social and cultural support services regarding teen pregnancy; (3) provide health and educational services related to the prevention of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among teens; (4) promote better health and educational outcomes among pregnant teens; and (5) provide relevant training for individuals who plan to work in school-based support programs. Requires the Secretary to make grants to: (1) provide public education and increase awareness with respect to the issue of reducing the rates of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among teens and related social and emotional issues; and (2) establish and operate a National Clearinghouse for Teen Pregnancy Prevention. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to make grants for research on the prevention of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among teens in such communities. Allows a grant to be made under this Act only if the applicant agrees that: (1) all information provided pursuant to the Act will be age-appropriate, factually and medically accurate and complete, and scientifically based; and (2) information, activities, and services under the grant will be provided in the language and cultural context that is most appropriate for individual groups.

Tribal Health Promotion and Tribal Colleges and Universities Advancement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Tribal Health Promotion and Tribal Colleges and Universities Advancement Act of 2007 - Through Higher Education: Promoting the Advancement of Tribal Health Act or THE PATH Act - Designates the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health within the Office of Public Health and Science of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), to serve as the coordinating officer with respect to programs of tribal colleges and universities relating to health promotion and disease prevention. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a memorandum of agreement with the American Indian Higher Education Consortium to establish programs to: (1) ensure that Native American communities, through tribal colleges and universities, participate equitably in employment programs, services, and resources of HHS; and (2) provide necessary technical assistance. Establishes programs for: (1) community-based health and wellness fairs; (2) health promotion and disease prevention targeted programs and construction and renovation of community wellness centers; and (3) development and expansion of public health professional degree programs. Establishes: (1) the Tribal College and University Rural Health Equity Endowment Fund; (2) offices of sponsored programs at tribal colleges and universities; and (3) health promotion and disease prevention research programs. Advancing Tribes Through Tribal Colleges and Universities Act or the AT TCUs Act - Establishes within the Administration on Native Americans, the Office on Tribal College and University Programs to: (1) administer the programs authorized by this Act; and (2) coordinate intra- and inter-departmental activities relating to tribal colleges and universities. Establishes the: (1) Native Prosperity and Native American Language Vitalization and Training Programs; and (2) tribal colleges and universities native communities research program.

Ten Steps to Transform Health Care in America Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Ten Steps to Transform Health Care in America Act - Directs states to implement mechanisms to automatically enroll uninsured individuals in health coverage. Requires each health insurance issuer in a state to offer a certified qualified core plan that provides coverage required by the state with a standard premium. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals a standard deduction or a refundable tax credit for health insurance. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS Secretary) to provide for the establishment in each state of a single market for all health plans offered in the state. Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to require the Secretary of Labor to promulgate regulations governing small business health plans. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the HHS Secretary to establish the Health Insurance Consensus Standards Board to develop recommendations that harmonize inconsistent state health insurance laws. Wired for Health Care Quality Act - Establishes: (1) the Office of the National Coordinator of Health Information Technology; (2) a public-private Partnership for Health Care Improvement; and (3) the American Health Information Community. Requires the HHS Secretary to: (1) provide for the development and use of health care quality measures; and (2) develop a Health Information Technology Resource Center. Authorizes the HHS Secretary to make grants for medical residency training programs or new residency positions. Requires the HHS Secretary to develop websites to provide information on advance directives and to store and access such directives. Fair and Reliable Medical Justice Act - Authorizes the HHS Secretary to award demonstration grants to states to develop, implement, and evaluate alternatives to current tort litigation for resolving disputes over injuries allegedly caused by health care providers or organizations.

Surgeon General Integrity Restoration Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Surgeon General Integrity Restoration Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a nomination procedure for selection of the Surgeon General. Requires the Institute of Medicine to submit to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the President a list of ten qualified nominees. Requires the Secretary to recommend one nominee from such list, or provide an explanation as to why each nominee is unsatisfactory. Requires the Surgeon General to submit an annual budget estimate. Authorizes the Surgeon General to: (1) submit a draft of a speech or report to the Secretary or any employee of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for comment and to issue, deliver, or release such speech or report notwithstanding any comment or objection of the Secretary or any such employee; and (2) directly hire staff without otherwise obtaining clearance or undergoing review as generally required within HHS. Prohibits the censoring of any work product of the Surgeon General in any manner (except to comply with federal national security or privacy laws) by any federal entity or official for political reasons. Requires the Secretary to identify and separately label any supposed modifications to such a work product that the Surgeon General does not consent to accept.

Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise physician service fee schedule requirements, particularly the conversion factors in the formula for determining fees. Provides for separate conversion factors for service categories. Establishes specified update service categories and expenditure measurement categories. Prescribes a formula for establishing updates for conversion factors for update service categories. Replaces sustainable growth rates with service category growth rates Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the appropriate congressional committees after the end of any year in which actual expenditures exceeded allowed expenditures for such year and the preceding year for either of the expenditure measurement categories: (1) clinical diagnostic laboratory tests; or (2) drugs, biologicals, and radiopharmaceuticals. Requires an analysis of the reasons for such excess expenditures and recommendations for addressing them in the future.

Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Robert T. Matsui Center for Cultural and Linguistic Competence in Health Care. Provides for health care workforce diversity activities, including the establishment of: (1) a technical clearinghouse on health workforce diversity; and (2) Regional Minority Centers of Excellence Programs. Requires health-related programs of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collect data on race, ethnicity, and primary language. Directs each federal health agency to implement a strategic plan to eliminate disparities and improve the health and health care of minority populations. Requires the Secretary to establish: (1) an Office of Health Disparities within the Office of Civil Rights; and (2) civil rights compliance offices in each HHS agency that administers health programs. Reestablishes the Indian Health Service as an agency within the Public Health Service of HHS to be administered by an Assistant Secretary of Indian Health. Requires the establishment of an Office of Minority Health within specified agencies. Directs the President to execute, administer, and enforce provisions to address environmental justice in minority and low-income populations. Provides for the establishment of health empowerment zone programs in communities that disproportionately experience disparities in health status and health care. Requires the Secretary to designate centers of excellence at public hospitals and other health systems that demonstrate excellence in providing care to minority populations and reducing health disparities. Makes immigrants from certain U.S. territories and possessions eligible for specified federal programs. Requires the Secretary to expand the Minority HIV/AIDS Initiative. Provides for grants for strategies to eliminate racial and ethnic health and health care disparities. Requires the Secretary to establish the Rural Health Quality Advisory Commission.

Medicare Prescription Drug Savings for Our Seniors (Medicare Prescription Drug SOS) Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Medicare Prescription Drug Savings for Our Seniors (Medicare Prescription Drug SOS) Act of 2007 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) offer one or more Medicare operated prescription drug plans (PDPs) with a service area consisting of the entire United States; and (2) negotiate with pharmaceutical manufacturers to reduce the purchase cost of covered part D drugs. Requires the monthly beneficiary premium for qualified prescription drug coverage and access to negotiated prices to be uniform nationally. Provides for auto-enrollment of subsidy eligible individuals in Medicare operated PDPs. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to provide for the use of 2005 as base in computing the state clawback provision. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to eliminate part D cost-sharing for certain non-institutionalized full-benefit dual eligible individuals. Provides for: (1) expedited low-income subsidies under the Medicare PDP; (2) indexing of deductible and cost-sharing for certain individuals; and (3) Commissioner of Social Security screening for Medicare savings program eligibility. Sets forth anti-fraud and abuse provisions. Provides for protection against a decrease in Social Security benefits owing to part D Medicare premium increases. Prohibits late enrollment penalties for months before January 2008. Allows a one-time change in plan during first year of enrollment. Prohibits a PDP sponsor from removing a covered part D drug from the plan formulary, downgrading its cost-sharing status, or otherwise introducing a barrier to access to covered part D drugs, without advance notice. Requires Medicare part D formularies to cover all drugs in six specified therapeutic categories. Makes benzodiazepines covered part D drugs, subject to review by the Secretary. Eliminates the MA Regional Stabilization Fund and certain Medicare Advantage overpayments. Requires prompt payment of clean claims by Medicare and Medicare Advantage PDPs. Prohibits co-branding. Extends part D coverage to medication therapy management services.

Drug and Medical Device Company Gift Disclosure Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Drug and Medical Device Company Gift Disclosure Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require prescription drug or medical device manufacturers, packers, and distributors to annually disclose to the Commissioner of Food and Drugs the value, nature, and purpose of any : (1) gift made in connection with detailing, promotion, or other marketing activity to any physician, nurse, therapist, hospital, nursing home, pharmacist, health benefit plan administrator, or any other person authorized to prescribe or dispense prescription drugs; and (2) cash rebate, discount, or other financial consideration given to any pharmaceutical benefit manager in connection with such marketing activities. Defines "gift" to include any fee, payment, subsidy, amenity, object, service, or other economic benefit, except: (1) free samples of prescription drugs; (2) reasonable compensation and reimbursement of expenses in connection with a bona fide clinical trial; and (3) certain scholarships or other support for medical students, residents, or fellows to attend conferences. Applies such provisions only if the total value of the gift or gifts is $50 or more during the calendar year. Requires the Commissioner to: (1) make such information available to the public; and (2) keep confidential any information related to a trade secret. Establishes civil penalties for violations. Gives the Commissioner authority to investigate compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner to file a petition in the United States District Court for an order requiring submission of a report or other appropriate relief.

Healthy Children and Families Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Healthy Children and Families Act of 2007 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to provide states with the option to provide evidence-based nurse home visitation services under Medicaid and the SCHIP programs.

Medicaid Prescription Drug Rebate Equalization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Medicaid Prescription Drug Rebate Equalization Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to reduce the costs of prescription drugs for enrollees of Medicaid managed care organizations by extending to such organizations the discounts offered under fee-for-service Medicaid plans. Requires the state contract with a Medicaid managed care organization to provide that: (1) payment for covered outpatient drugs dispensed to Medicaid-eligible individuals enrolled with the organization shall be subject to the same rebate as the state is subject to; and (2) the state shall allow the organization to collect such rebates from manufacturers. Requires also that capitation rates paid to the organization be: (1) based on actual cost experience related to rebates; and (2) subject to the federal regulations requiring actuarially sound rates.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure adequate payment amounts for drugs and biologicals under part B of the Medicare Program.

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the average sales price methodology for payment for drugs and biologicals under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for Aged and Disabled). Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to increase the payment amount for a drug or biological to the extent necessary to ensure that it is in no case less than the widely available market price. Limits the prompt pay discounts included in the calculation of the manufacturer's average sales price to those discounts furnished to physicians. Excludes such discounts from the average sales price calculation for years after 2004.

Medicare Early Detection of Cancer Promotion Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Medicare Early Detection of Cancer Promotion Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) extend the eligibility period for a "Welcome to Medicare" initial preventive physical examination from six months to one year; and (2) to eliminate the 20% coinsurance for screening mammography and colorectal cancer screening tests.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements between two physicians during the period in which one of the physicians is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to create an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements in the case of arrangements between two physicians over a longer continuous period during all of which one of them is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements between two physicians during the period in which one of the physicians is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to create an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements in the case of arrangements between two physicians over a longer continuous period during all of which one of them is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces. Applies this exception to medical services provided before January 1, 2008.

National Pain Care Policy Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

National Pain Care Policy Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to enter an agreement with the Institute of Medicine to convene a Conference on Pain to: (1) increase the recognition of pain as a significant public health problem; (2) evaluate the adequacy of assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute and chronic pain; (3) identify barriers to appropriate pain care; and (4) establish an agenda for action that will reduce such barriers and improve pain care research, education, and clinical care. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish the Pain Consortium to: (1) establish a national agenda for research on the causes and effective treatments for pain; and (2) convene an annual conference of experts in pain research, treatment, and management to assess and make recommendations on NIH pain research activities and programs. Requires the Director of NIH to establish the National Pain Care Research Advisory Committee. Requires the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to: (1) collect protocols and evidence-based practices regarding pain care at all stages of life; and (2) disseminate such information to regulatory and enforcement agencies, health care programs, payor and providers, health professions schools, hospices, and the general public. Allows the Secretary to provide for the development and implementation of programs to educate and train health care professionals in pain care. Requires the Secretary to establish a national pain care education outreach and awareness campaign.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements between two physicians during the period in which one of the physicians is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to create an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements in the case of arrangements between two physicians over a longer continuous period during all of which one of them is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces.

District of Columbia Medicaid Reimbursement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

District of Columbia Medicaid Reimbursement Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to increase the Medicaid federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for the District of Columbia from 70% to 75%.

Josephine Butler United States Health Service Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Josephine Butler United States Health Service Act - Establishes the United States Health Service as an independent executive branch entity to provide health care and supplemental health services to all individuals within the United States. Requires the President to appoint members to a National Health Board to exercise the authority of the Service. Establishes an Office of the Inspector General for Health Services. Requires the Service to ensure that every individual is given certain basic health rights, including the right to receive high quality care and supplemental services from any facility within the Service capable of providing such services without charge and without discrimination. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide employees with leave to receive necessary health care services. Requires the Board to: (1) establish any necessary health care facilities; (2) establish guidelines for the classification, certification, and employment of health workers by job category; (3) provide for the education of health workers through health team schools and loan repayment; (4) establish a health advocacy program to ensure the realization of patients' rights; (5) oversee occupational safety and health programs; and (6) conduct research concerning health and health care delivery. Transfers to the Board the agencies of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that conduct research on health and health care. Requires the Board to establish additional research institutes. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a health services tax on the income of individuals and corporations to fund the Health Service Trust Fund (established under this Act). Transfers to the Service certain authority of the Secretary of HHS.

Glaucoma Screening Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Glaucoma Screening Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to expand coverage of screening for glaucoma to include individuals who are both older than 49 years of age and Hispanic. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program to award a grant to an eligible entity to provide glaucoma screenings to individuals determined to be at high risk. Requires such an entity to: (1) utilize mobile screening units to test for glaucoma and other eye diseases; (2) target screening activities to populations primarily consisting of high-risk individuals; (3) form partnerships with federally-qualified health centers to increase awareness of the need for glaucoma screenings and to provide screenings for high-risk individuals; and (4) provide grants to approved medical residency training programs to permit participating students to conduct such screenings.

CLASS Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act or the CLASS Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to create a national, voluntary disability insurance program (CLASS program) under which: (1) all employees are automatically enrolled, but are allowed to waive enrollment; (2) payroll deductions pay monthly premiums; and (3) two-tiered benefits are provided, based on the level of disability, to purchase nonmedical services and supports that the beneficiary needs to maintain independence. Establishes the Independence Fund within the Treasury. Requires the CLASS program to be treated for tax purposes in the same manner as a qualified long-term care insurance contract. Amends the Social Security Act to require each state to: (1) assess the extent to which personal care services providers are serving or able to serve as fiscal agents, employers, and providers of employment-related benefits for personal care attendant workers, who provide personal care services to individuals receiving benefits under this Act; (2) designate or create entities to serve such purposes; and (3) ensure that such entities will not negatively alter or impede existing programs, models, methods, or administration of service delivery that provide for consumer controlled or self-directed home and community services, impede the ability of individuals to direct and control their home and community services, or inhibit individuals from relying on family members for such services. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Personal Care Attendants Workforce Advisory Panel to examine and advise the Secretary and Congress on workforce issues related to personal care attendant workers. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) a deduction for premiums paid for the CLASS program; (2) a credit CLASS program enrollees with low income; and (3) a credit for employers for the cost incurred to automatically enroll employees and withhold monthly premiums.

Independent Health Record Trust Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Independent Health Record Trust Act of 2007 - Directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prescribe standards for the establishment, certification, operation, and interoperability of independent health record trusts (IHRTs). Establishes a fiduciary duty requiring an IHRT to act for the benefit and interest of participants and of the IHRT as a whole. Sets forth penalties for any knowing or reckless breach of such duty. Sets forth permitted uses for an electronic health record, including: (1) a primary use for purposes of the individual's self-care or care by health care professionals; and (2) a secondary use for purposes of public health research or related activities. Directs that participation in an IHRT, or authorizing access to information from such trust, is voluntary. Prohibits any person from requiring that an individual participate in, or authorize access to information from, an IHRT. Authorizes an IHRT to generate revenue to pay for operations through: (1) charging participants account fees; (2) charging authorized IHRT data users for accessing electronic health records; (3) the sale of information; and (4) any other activity determined appropriate by the FTC. Prohibits an IHRT from charging a fee for the transmittal of information from a health care provider to be included in an independent electronic health record. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an Interagency Steering Committee to coordinate the implementation of this Act. Requires the National Committee for Vital and Health Statistics to serve as an advisory committee for IHRTs.

Republic of the Marshall Islands Supplemental Nuclear Compensation Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Republic of the Marshall Islands Supplemental Nuclear Compensation Act of 2007 - Amends the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2003 to direct the Secretary of Energy to periodically survey and report on radiological conditions on Runit Island. Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include a citizen of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands within the definitions of "covered employee," "atomic weapons employee," and "Department of Energy contractor employee." Coordinates specified benefits with respect to the Compact of Free Association (as defined by this Act). Directs the Secretary of the Interior to use amounts appropriated by this Act to supplement health care in the communities affected by the U.S. nuclear testing program, including outer island primary healthcare facilities of the Republic of the Marshall Islands in: (1) Enewetak Atoll, (2) Kili (until the resettlement of Bikini); (3) Majetto Island in Kwajalein Atoll (until the resettlement of Rongelap Atoll); and (4) Utrik Atoll. Provides for a National Academy of Sciences assessment of the U.S. nuclear testing program's health impacts on the residents of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

CLASS Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act or the CLASS Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to create a national, voluntary disability insurance program (CLASS program) under which: (1) all employees are automatically enrolled, but are allowed to waive enrollment; (2) payroll deductions pay monthly premiums; and (3) two-tiered benefits are provided, based on the level of disability, to purchase nonmedical services and supports that the beneficiary needs to maintain independence. Establishes the Independence Fund within the Treasury. Requires the CLASS program to be treated for tax purposes in the same manner as a qualified long-term care insurance contract. Amends the Social Security Act to require each state to: (1) assess the extent to which personal care services providers are serving or able to serve as fiscal agents, employers, and providers of employment-related benefits for personal care attendant workers, who provide personal care services to individuals receiving benefits under this Act; (2) designate or create entities to serve such purposes; and (3) ensure that such entities will not negatively alter or impede existing programs, models, methods, or administration of service delivery that provide for consumer controlled or self-directed home and community services, impede the ability of individuals to direct and control their home and community services, or inhibit individuals from relying on family members for such services. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Personal Care Attendants Workforce Advisory Panel to examine and advise the Secretary and Congress on workforce issues related to personal care attendant workers. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) a deduction for premiums paid for the CLASS program; (2) a credit CLASS program enrollees with low income; and (3) a credit for employers for the cost incurred to automatically enroll employees and withhold monthly premiums.

Healthy Start Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 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 and Hawaii. 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.

Health Care Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Health Care Accountability Act - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require the state Medicaid plan to provide for the annual reporting by the state, using data only from medical assistance applications by individuals, on each employer in the state with 50 or more employees who received Medicaid medical assistance at any time during the previous year.

THE FUTURE OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTHCARE IN SOUTH LOUISIANA

United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 July 2007

A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide for a workplace wellness education campaign and an evaluation of employer-based wellness programs, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2007

Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to: (1) conduct an educational campaign on employer-based wellness programs; (2) develop an annual awards program for employers to encourage the development of creative and effective solutions to help employees maintain or improve their health; (3) enter into contracts with entities to provide employers with technical assistance in evaluating wellness programs; and (4) conduct a national worksite health policies and programs study to assess employer-based health policies and programs. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to include a workforce component to enable employers, researchers, and health officials to: (1) assess employee health risks; (2) identify emerging problems associated with general employee health; (3) prevent disease within the employee population; and (4) improve employer-based health programs and policies. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to award grants for research demonstration projects to study the effect of new worksite-based health interventions and models. Directs the Secretary to carry out activities to implement guidelines or recommendations resulting from such projects.

Community Cancer Care Preservation Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2007

Community Cancer Care Preservation Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require determination and calculation of the manufacturer's average sales price for a drug or biological on a monthly instead of a quarterly basis. Requires the payment amounts to be updated and applied by the Secretary of Health and Human Services based on the manufacturer's average sales price for the drug or biological calculated for the most recent month for which data are available. Removes prompt pay discounts from the calculation of such price. Provides for an increase in the Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) payment for chemotherapy administration services. Directs the Secretary to make an additional 2% for any drug administration services payment to physicians, taking into account pharmacy facilities management costs. Directs the Secretary to develop new CPT codes for reporting and billing of physician's services associated with pharmacy facilities management and with medical oncology treatment planning.

PRIME Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Prostate Research, Imaging, and Men's Education Act or the PRIME Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to expand and intensify research to develop advanced imaging technologies for prostate cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment comparable to mammogram technology. Directs the Secretary: (1) to carry out a national campaign to increase awareness and knowledge with respect to the need for prostate cancer screening and for improved detection technologies; (2) in developing such campaign, to recognize and address the racial disparities in the incidences of prostate cancer and mortality rates; (3) to establish a program to award grants to nonprofit private entities to test alternative outreach and education strategies; (4) to carry out research to develop an improved prostate cancer screening blood test using in-vitro detection; and (5) to certify compliance with this Act within one year.

TAA Health Coverage Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

TAA Health Coverage Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the tax credit for the health insurance costs of trade adjustment assistance (TAA) workers to, among other things: (1) increase the rate of such credit from 65 to 95% of health insurance costs ; (2) allow for the full amount of such credit and for full payment of TAA worker health insurance premiums for months prior to the issuance of a qualified health insurance costs credit eligibility certificate; and (3) set forth new tax credit eligibility rules for TAA workers and their family members. Requires the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to establish a program to offer TAA workers enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program (FEHBP). Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to: (1) prevent a lapse of health care coverage for TAA workers; and (2) align coverage periods under such Act with eligibility periods for TAA workers. Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to require a state or entity to use national emergency grant funds to provide TAA workers and their family members with health insurance coverage for periods prior to their first eligibility month.

Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive, where appropriate, the requirement for state designation of a critical access hospital that it be more than a 35-mile drive (or, in the case of mountainous terrain or in areas with only secondary roads available, a 15-mile drive) from another hospital or medical facility.

Medicare IVIG Access Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Medicare IVIG Access Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to collect and review data on the differences, if any, between: (1) payments to physicians for immune globulins using average sales price payment methodology; and (2) costs incurred by physicians for furnishing these products. Requires the Secretary, after completion of the review, to provide, if appropriate, an additional payment to such physicians for all items related to the furnishing of immune globulins as part of hospital outpatient services. Provides for Medicare coverage of and payment for intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) administered in the home. Directs the Secretary to conduct two surveys, for reports to Congress, of Medicare and non-Medicare patients who need immune globulins in order to measure changes in patient access to those products (and providers furnishing them), as well as changes in the health care status of those patients.

National Health Service Corps Scholarship and Loan Repayment Programs Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

National Health Service Corps Scholarship and Loan Repayment Programs Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize appropriations for FY2007-FY2011 for National Health Service Corps Scholarship and Loan Repayment programs. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to reserve a portion of such funds for scholarships to individuals who are enrolled in a course of study or program that leads to a degree in medicine or osteopathic medicine.

Osteoporosis Early Detection and Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Osteoporosis Early Detection and Prevention Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to require a group health plan to include coverage for bone mass measurement for individuals who: (1) are at a clinical risk for osteoporosis, including estrogen-deficient women; (2) have vertebral abnormalities; (3) are receiving chemotherapy or long-term gluococorticoid (steroid) therapy; (4) have primary hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or excess thyroid replacement; or (5) are being monitored to assess the response to or efficacy of approved osteoporosis drug therapy. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish standards regulating the frequency with which individuals are eligible to be provided this benefit. Prohibits specified actions by health care plans to discourage the use of this benefit. Applies these requirements to coverage offered in the individual market.

Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act of 2007 - Prescription Drug User Fee Amendments of 2007 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to reauthorize the collection of prescription drug user fees for FY2008-FY2012. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to assess and collect fees for advisory review of direct-to-consumer television advertisements of prescription drugs. Medical Device User Fee Amendments of 2007 - Reauthorizes the collection of medical device user fees for FY2008-FY2012. Sets forth provisions governing the inspection of medical device establishments by accredited persons. Pediatric Medical Device Safety and Improvement Act of 2007 - Requires a person that submits an application for approval of a medical device to provide information on pediatric subpopulations that suffer from the disease or condition that the device is intended to treat, diagnose, or cure. Pediatric Research Equity Act of 2007 - Sets forth conditions under which the Secretary may grant waivers or deferrals of requirements that applicants submit a pediatric assessment for new drugs and biological products. Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act of 2007 - Makes changes to provisions regarding market exclusivity for conducting pediatric drug studies on new or already approved drugs. Establishes the Reagan-Udall Foundation for the Food and Drug Administration as a nonprofit corporation to advance the mission of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to modernize medical, veterinary, food, food ingredient, and cosmetic product development, accelerate innovation, and enhance product safety. Provides for recruitment of potential members of FDA advisory committees. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to establish and administer a clinical trial registry database and a clinical trial results database for drugs and devices. Authorizes the Secretary to require a responsible person for a drug to conduct a post-approval study on the basis of scientific information.

Medicare Advantage Truth in Advertising Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Medicare Advantage Truth in Advertising Act of 2007 - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to restrict cost-sharing under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program to a level no greater (and permissably less) than the cost-sharing that would otherwise be imposed under the original Medicare fee-for-service program option. Declares that nothing regarding original Medicare fee-for-service program option benefits shall be construed as prohibiting an MA plan from using a flat copayment or per diem rate, under this Act, in lieu of the cost-sharing imposed under Medicare part A or part B.

Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to extend Medicare coverage to medical nutrition therapy services for people with pre-diabetes and risk factors for developing type-2 diabetes.

Medicare Access to Community Health Centers (MATCH) Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Medicare Access to Community Health Centers (MATCH) Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the definition of "federally qualified health center services" to include ambulatory services furnished by a federally qualified health center (FQHC) for which payment may otherwise be made under Medicare if such services were furnished by a non-FQHC health care provider or health care professional employed by or under contract with an FQHC. Permits payment for hospital-based services. Provides for a Medicare prospective payment system (PPS) for Medicare-covered services provided by FQHCs.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should reaffirm the commitments of the United States to the 2001 Doha Declaration on the TRIPS Agreement and Public Health and to pursuing trade policies that promote access to affordable medicines.

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Urges the United States to: (1) honor U.S. commitments made in the 2001 World Trade Organization Doha Declaration on the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement and Public Health, which allows World Trade Organization (WTO) members to fully use the flexibilities in the TRIPS Agreement to protect public health and promote access to medicines for all; (2) not place countries on the "Special 301" Priority Watch List for exercising such flexibilites, such as issuing compulsory licenses to obtain generic medicines; (3) not ask developing countries that are trading partners to adopt measures to protect public health intellectual property rights in excess of protections required in the TRIPS Agreement; and (4) support new global norms for promoting medical research and development.

Small Business Children's Health Education Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Small Business Children's Health Education Act of 2007 - Establishes a task force to conduct a nationwide campaign of education and outreach for small businesses regarding the availability of health care coverage for children through private insurance options, the Medicaid program, and the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) (title XXI of the Social Security Act). Requires the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to ensure that links to information on eligibility and enrollment requirements for the Medicaid program and SCHIP of each state are prominently displayed on the SBA website.

Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Prevention, Education, and Research Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Lyme and Tick-borne Disease Prevention, Education, and Research Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Tick-Borne Diseases Advisory Committee. Requires the Committee to advise the Secretary and the Assistant Secretary for Health regarding how officials can: (1) ensure interagency coordination and communication and minimize overlap regarding efforts to address tick-borne diseases; (2) identify opportunities to coordinate efforts with other federal agencies and private organizations addressing such diseases; (3) ensure interagency coordination and communication with constituency groups; (4) ensure that a broad spectrum of scientific viewpoints is represented in public heath policy decisions and that information disseminated to the public and physicians is balanced; and (5) advise relevant federal agencies on priorities related to Lyme and tick-borne diseases. Requires the Secretary, acting through the appropriate federal officials, to provide for the coordination of all federal programs and activities related to Lyme and other tick-borne diseases, including: (1) developing sensitive and accurate diagnostic tools and tests, (2) improving the efficient utilization of diagnostic testing currently available; (3) accurately determining the prevalence of such diseases; (4) evaluating the feasibility of creating a national uniform reporting system; (5) providing and promoting access to a clearinghouse of information on such diseases; (6) increasing public education related to such diseases; (7) creating a physician education program; (8) establishing epidemiological research objectives to determine the long term course of illness for Lyme disease; and (9) determining the effectiveness of different treatment modalities by establishing treatment outcome objectives

A bill to provide for the extension of transitional medical assistance (TMA) and the abstinence education program through the end of fiscal year 2007, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Amends the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 to extend transitional medical assistance (TMA) and the abstinence education program through FY2007. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to limited continuous open enrollment of original fee-for-service enrollees in Medicare Advantage non-prescription drug plans. Accelerates from the end of 2008 to July 31, 2007, the sunset of the period during which a Medicare Advantage-eligible but unenrolled fee-for-service individual may elect to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that is not an MA-Prescription Drug plan. Revises the initial funding available to the Medicare Advantage Regional Plan Stabilization for expenditures during 2012 and 2013. Reduces the total for both years currently set at $3.5 billion to: (1) $1.6 billion during 2012; and (2) $1.79 billion during 2013.

Medicare Mental Health Copayment Equity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Medicare Mental Health Copayment Equity Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide, by a gradual increase in the percentage of expenses considered incurred expenses, for a gradual reduction (from 50% to the standard 20%) of copayment rates for outpatient psychiatric services under the Medicare program.

SHINE Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Screening for Health of Infants and Newborns Act or the SHINE Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop guidelines that states may follow in reporting data from newborn screening tests. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to develop guidelines to: (1) monitor and evaluate newborn screening activities; and (2) coordinate the results of surveillance activities. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC and the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, to develop a surveillance system for newborn screening. Directs the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders and Genetic Diseases in Newborns and Children to advise the Secretary on the guidelines and on monitoring and evaluating newborn screening and surveillance activities. Requires the Secretary to: (1) direct the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of HRSA to establish a central clearinghouse of current education and family support and services information, materials, resources, research, and data on newborn screening; (2) award grants for demonstration projects that increase state capacity to screen for all of the core conditions; (3) award Hunter Kelly Newborn Screening grants for demonstration projects that develop screening tests for additional newborn conditions or develop multiple markers to increase the specificity of such tests; and (4) appoint an Interagency Grant Review Panel to select grant applications and provide oversight on the grant program.

Medicare Diabetic Footwear Quality Restoration Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Medicare Diabetic Footwear Quality Restoration Act of 2005 - Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to terminate the reduction in Medicare payment for orthopedic shoes and inserts furnished to individuals with diabetes.

SHINE Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Screening for Health of Infants and Newborns Act or the SHINE Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop guidelines that states may follow in reporting data from newborn screening tests. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to develop guidelines to: (1) monitor and evaluate newborn screening activities; and (2) coordinate the results of surveillance activities. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC and the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, to develop a surveillance system for newborn screening. Directs the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders and Genetic Diseases in Newborns and Children to advise the Secretary on the guidelines and on monitoring and evaluating newborn screening and surveillance activities. Requires the Secretary to: (1) direct the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of HRSA to establish a central clearinghouse of current education and family support and services information, materials, resources, research, and data on newborn screening; (2) award grants for demonstration projects that increase state capacity to screen for all of the core conditions; (3) award Hunter Kelly Newborn Screening grants for demonstration projects that develop screening tests for additional newborn conditions or develop multiple markers to increase the specificity of such tests; and (4) appoint an Interagency Grant Review Panel to select grant applications and provide oversight on the grant program.

Family Building Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Family Building Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to require a group health plan that provides coverage for obstetrical services to include coverage for non-experimental treatment of infertility that is deemed appropriate by a participant or beneficiary and the treating physician. Requires coverage for assisted reproductive technology only if certain conditions are met. Prohibits a group health plan from taking specified actions to avoid the requirements of this Act. Applies such requirements to health insurance coverage offered in the individual market and coverage offered through Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) plans and Department of Defense health care plans.