Healthcare

Records whose title is actually about this topic. Use a country filter if the list is still too broad.

51 records in US in 1998

Records

Bill· SS. 2652 (105th)referred

Circle of Poison Prevention Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Exported Pesticides Title II: Pesticide Residue Monitoring Title III: Pesticide Tolerances Title IV: Pesticide Information Title V: Effective Dates Circle of Poison Prevention Act of 1998 - Title I: Exported Pesticides - Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) to require pesticide producers operating registered establishments to inform the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency of: (1) the types and quantities of pesticides and active ingredients used in producing pesticides for export to a foreign country; and (2) the date of export and quantity of such materials exported to each foreign country to which the producer has exported during the past 365-day period. (Sec. 103) Provides that specified information on exported pesticides shall not be entitled to confidential trade secret treatment. (Sec. 104) Makes it unlawful to export a pesticide or device in violation of FIFRA export requirements. (Sec. 105) Prohibits the exportation of a pesticide or device unless: (1) such materials are prepared and packaged according to the specifications of the foreign purchaser and the legal requirements of the country of use; and (2) the label of the pesticide is written in the official language of the country of use and contains all information required to be included in the labeling for such pesticide in the United States. Prohibits the exportation of a pesticide to a country of use if: (1) the registrations for pesticides containing an active ingredient that is included in such pesticide that account for nearly all of the uses of such ingredient have been canceled; (2) the tolerances for an active ingredient in such pesticide that account for nearly all the uses of such ingredient have been revoked; or (3) an active ingredient of the pesticide is ineligible for reregistration. Prohibits such exports (including pesticides used for agricultural production) unless: (1) the pesticide is registered; or (2) all of the active ingredients in the pesticide are the subject of a food tolerance. Requires exporters, prior to the shipment of certain pesticides, to provide specified information to the Administrator. Prohibits the exportation of any pesticide to a country of use that: (1) has refused consent; or (2) has given conditional consent unless the conditions on which the consent was given are met. Prohibits refusals to consent unless the country certifies that it is not producing or importing and will not produce or import the pesticide or a similar product with the same active ingredient. Waives requirements described above, upon the request of a country of use and subject to certain determinations by the Administrator, to permit the export of pesticides not meeting FIFRA requirements to: (1) prevent or arrest the spread of a communicable disease; or (2) stop or prevent the spread of a pest that is destroying or will destroy quantities of the country's food supply so as to result in widespread famine. Permits the export of pesticides for experimental use in foreign countries if specified conditions are met. Directs the Administrator to submit information to the Secretary of Health and Human Services concerning inspection for pesticide residues in imported foods conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services. Requires the Administrator to notify foreign countries and the International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals whenever regulatory action is taken with respect to a pesticide. Directs the Administrator to: (1) convene meetings with foreign governments and other interested parties to promote the implementation of improved research and regulatory programs for pest management and strategies for sustainable agriculture and to encourage the adoption of a multilateral convention requiring standard notice and pesticide export control measures; and (2) provide foreign countries with technical assistance to develop pesticide regulatory programs. Permits persons to bring civil actions to secure the imposition of penalties on persons who violate pesticide export requirements. Prohibits civil actions from being initiated on the basis of existing proceedings for criminal violations. (Sec. 106) Requires the Comptroller General to report to the Congress every four years on: (1) the operation and effect of this Act; and (2) how exported pesticides and their containers are used and disposed of and on their impact on the public health and the environment of countries of use. Title II: Pesticide Residue Monitoring - Amends the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 to direct the Food and Drug Administration to summarize the volume of each food product subject to the requirements of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act imported into the United States in quantities determined by the Secretary of Health and Human Services to be commercial quantities (currently, products having an entry value exceeding an amount established by the Secretary). Requires the summary to: (1) be made by food product, country of origin, port of entry, pesticides monitored by the Secretary, pesticide residues detected, and the quantity of each pesticide exported from the United States for agricultural use; and (2) indicate the volume of each type of food tested for pesticide residues, arranged by pesticide, food, and country of origin. Title III: Pesticide Tolerances - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Administrator, if a registration under FIFRA for a pesticide to be used on food is canceled or modified to prohibit its use in connection with food, to revoke any tolerance or exemption that permits the presence of the pesticide on the food. Suspends tolerances or exemptions for pesticides used on food if such use is suspended under FIFRA. Authorizes the Administrator, if a residue of a canceled or suspended pesticide will persist in the environment and be present on a food, to establish a tolerance for the pesticide at a level that permits the residue to remain and will protect public health. Requires the Administrator to reduce the tolerance for any suspended or canceled pesticide annually if any decrease in the pesticide's residual environmental contamination or residues on food has occurred. Prohibits the Administrator from establishing or continuing a tolerance for a pesticide chemical residue unless the best available, practical method for detecting and measuring the levels of the residue on a food exists. Title IV: Pesticide Information - Prohibits the importation of a raw agricultural commodity into U.S. customs territory unless the commodity importer files with the Secretary and the Secretary of the Treasury a document identifying each pesticide chemical used in connection with the commodity. Requires such importers, if unreported pesticides are detected in such commodities, to submit residue analyses for such pesticides. Waives reporting requirements for unreported pesticides if the presence of such pesticides is attributable to long-term environmental persistence and does not pose a health risk. Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, and the Egg Products Inspection Act to apply such requirements to importers of meat, poultry, and eggs. (Sec. 402) Amends the Agricultural Act of 1954 to add to the list of annual reporting requirements of agricultural attaches a report on the customary use of pesticides in the production of agricultural commodities in foreign countries. Title V: Effective Dates - Sets forth the effective dates for provisions of this Act.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 314 (105th)referred

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate regarding the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make adjustments to payments made to skilled nursing facilities under the medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1998

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in making payments under the prospective payment system (PPS) for skilled nursing facilities under Medicare, has the authority under such PPS to provide for an appropriate adjustment to account for case mix which reflects a patient's medical needs requiring the provision of non-therapy ancillary services (such as respiratory therapy, pharmacy, laboratory, X-ray, and parenteral and enteral services, and covered durable medical supplies). Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should: (1) gather sufficient data on the provision of non-therapy ancillary services by skilled nursing facilities paid under the PPS in order to develop the appropriate case mix adjustment; and (2) periodically report to the Congress on the development of such an adjustment which reflects a patient's medical needs requiring such ancillary services.

Bill· SS. 2647 (105th)referred

Drug Demand Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Targeted Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Programs Subtitle A: National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign Subtitle B: Drug-Free Prisons and Jails Subtitle C: Drug-Free Schools Quality Assurance Title II: Statement of National Antidrug Policy Subtitle A: Congressional Leadership in Community Coalitions Subtitle B: Rejection of Legalization of Drugs Subtitle C: Report on Streamlining Federal Prevention and Treatment Efforts Drug Demand Reduction Act - Title I: Targeted Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Programs - Subtitle A: National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign - Drug-Free Media Campaign Act of 1998 - Requires the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy to: (1) conduct a national media campaign for the purpose of reducing and preventing drug abuse among young people in the United States; and (2) use appropriated funds for media that focuses on, or that includes specific information on, prevention or treatment resources for consumers within specific local areas. (Sec. 103) Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) authorized and prohibited uses of funds; and (2) matching and reporting requirements. (Sec. 105) Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle B: Drug-Free Prisons and Jails - Drug-Free Prisons and Jails Act of 1998 - Requires the Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance to establish a model substance abuse treatment program for substance-involved offenders by providing financial assistance to grant recipients and evaluating the success of programs conducted pursuant to this subtitle. Limits grant awards and administrative costs. (Sec. 114) Sets forth requirements for grant applications, review and approval of awards, permissible uses of funds, and evaluation and reporting requirements. Requires the Director to establish minimum criteria for program evaluation. (Sec. 118) Authorizes appropriations from the Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund. Subtitle C: Drug-Free Schools Quality Assurance - Drug-Free Schools Quality Assurance Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require the chief executive officer of each State or other entity designated to be responsible for education activities to: (1) establish a standard of quality for drug, alcohol, and tobacco prevention programs implemented in public schools in the State in accordance with specified criteria (including a comparison of the rate of illegal use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco by students enrolled over a specified period, the rate of suspensions or expulsions, program effectiveness, parental and community involvement, and the extent of review of existing community drug, alcohol, and tobacco prevention programs before implementation); and (2) identify and designate, upon application by a public elementary or secondary school, any such school that achieves such standard as a quality program school. Sets forth provisions regarding requests for a quality program designation and public notification. Title II: Statement of National Antidrug Policy - Subtitle A: Congressional Leadership in Community Coalitions - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the individual Members of the House of Representatives should establish community-based anti-drug coalitions in their congressional districts or should actively support such coalitions that already exist. Subtitle B: Rejection of Legalization of Drugs - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the States and their citizens should reject drug legalization; and (2) each State should make efforts to be drug-free. Subtitle C: Report on Streamlining Federal Prevention and Treatment Efforts - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) Federal Government efforts to reduce the demand for illegal drugs in the United States are frustrated by the fragmentation of those efforts across multiple departments and agencies; and (2) improvement of those efforts can best be achieved through consolidation and coordination. Requires the Director of National Drug Control Policy to prepare and submit to specified congressional committees a report evaluating options for increasing the efficacy of Federal drug prevention and treatment programs and activities. Requires such report to include a thorough review of the activities and potential consolidation of existing Federal drug information clearinghouses. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4872 (105th)referred

Certified Nurse Midwifery Medicare Services Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1998

Certified Nurse Midwifery Medicare Services Act of 1998 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for the coverage of and payment for the following under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance): (1) certified midwife services (currently only certified nurse-midwife services are covered); and (2) freestanding birth center services. Declares that nothing precludes certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives from teaching or supervising an intern or resident-in-training.

Bill· HRH.R. 4862 (105th)referred

Medigap Access Protection for Seniors Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1998

Medigap Access Protection for Seniors Act of 1998 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with regard to the certification of Medicare supplemental health insurance (Medigap) policies to include among such policies one which covers prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare+Choice plan that terminates enrollment of all individuals in the area in which the beneficiary resides.

Bill· HRH.R. 4873 (105th)referred

NIH Office of Autoimmune Diseases Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1998

NIH Office of Autoimmune Diseases Act of 1998 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish within the Office of the Director of NIH the Office of Autoimmune Diseases (Office), whose Director shall: (1) serve as principal advisor on autoimmune diseases to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Assistant Secretary for Health, the Director of NIH; and (2) advise the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Commissioner of Food and Drugs. Instructs the Director of NIH to ensure that: (1) an Autoimmune Disease Coordinating Committee is in operation to coordinate the autoimmune disease activities of the National Institutes of Health; and (2) it includes liaison members from other Federal health agencies. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4855 (105th)referred

Reinstatement of Medicare Bonus and Capital Payment for Rehabilitation Hospitals Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1998

Reinstatement of Medicare Bonus and Capital Payment for Rehabilitation Hospitals Act of 1998 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to reinstate certain bonus thresholds and capital payment levels for rehabilitation hospitals and units.

Bill· HRH.R. 4849 (105th)referred

Generic Drug Uniformity Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1998

Generic Drug Uniformity Act of 1998 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect to new drug applications to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to include in an application approval a finding about whether the approved (generic) drug is the therapeutic equivalent of the listed drug involved. Prohibits a State or its political subdivision from establishing or continuing any requirement that does not conform to the therapeutic equivalence requirement of this Act.

Bill· SS. 2638 (105th)open

A bill to provide support for certain institutes and schools.

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Oregon Institute of Public Service and Constitutional Studies Title II: Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Title III: Howard Baker School of Government Title IV: John Glenn Institute for Public Service and Public Policy Title I: Oregon Institute of Public Service and Constitutional Studies - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award a grant to Portland State University in Portland, Oregon, to establish an endowment fund to support the Oregon Institute of Public Service and Constitutional Studies, which the University shall establish at the Mark O. Hatfield School of Government under a Leadership Council in order to receive such grant. (Sec. 103) Requires such Institute to: (1) further the knowledge and understanding of students about public service, the U.S. Government, and the Constitution; (2) increase awareness among youth of the importance of public service; (3) establish a Mark O. Hatfield Fellows program for students of government, public policy, public health, education, or law who have demonstrated a commitment to public service through volunteer activities, research projects, or employment; (4) create library and research facilities; and (5) support the professional development of elected officials at all levels of government. (Sec. 106) Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Paul Simon Public Policy Institute - Authorizes the Secretary to award a grant to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Illinois, to establish an endowment fund to support the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, which the University shall establish in order to receive such grant. (Sec. 202) Includes among the Institute's duties research, analysis, debate, and policy recommendations with respect to world hunger, mass media, foreign policy, education, and employment. (Sec. 206) Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Howard Baker School of Government - Authorizes the Secretary to award a grant to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee, to establish the Howard Baker School of Government and its endowment fund. (Sec. 303) Requires the School to further the study of democratic institutions and public affairs, among other duties. (Sec. 304) Requires the School to operate with the guidance of a Board of Advisors. (Sec. 306) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: John Glenn Institute for Public Service and Public Policy - Authorizes the Secretary to award a grant to Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, to establish the John Glenn Institute for Public Service and Public Policy and its endowment fund. (Sec. 402) Requires the Institute to further the study of public service and public policy issues, among other duties. (Sec. 406) Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4843 (105th)referred

Nursing Home Residents Protection Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 1998

Nursing Home Residents Protection Act of 1998 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require a person or entity having a controlling interest in a skilled nursing facility or a nursing facility that files for relief from debts under the bankruptcy code to provide written notice of such filing to the State agency responsible for licensing the facility. Requires similar written notification to the State agency of appointment of a bankruptcy trustee.

Bill· HRH.R. 4844 (105th)referred

Child Care Quality Improvement Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 1998

Child Care Quality Improvement Act of 1998 - Amends the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (CCDBGA) to establish a child care quality improvement grant program to assist States in improving the quality of child care for infants and children (program). (Sec. 3) Amends the Social Security Act to make appropriations for such program. Sets forth reservation, allotment, and Federal matching formulas. Requires States, in applying for program grants, to list established goals for quantifiable improvements in child care quality within the State (quality benchmarks), that accomplish: (1) increased training for child care providers and administrators; (2) enhanced licensing standards (including at a minimum health and safety, adult- to-child ratios, groups sizes, and criminal background checks) that will apply to a broader range of child care facilities; (3) reduced numbers of unlicensed facilities offering child care; (4) increased State monitoring and enforcement of licensed providers; (5) decreased caregiver turnover rates at child care facilities through incentives such as increased compensation; (6) higher levels of accreditation among licensed child care facilities; and (7) other standards and practices to improve the quality of child care. Requires States to use program funds only for the specified program goals and the quality benchmarks set forth in their State plans. Excludes from such program assistance specified types of child care providers and family child care providers, with certain exceptions. Requires States that receive program funds to make competitive grants to local collaboratives to: (1) provide, in the community, activities designed to strengthen the quality of child care for young children and expand the supply of high quality child care services for young children; and (2) pay for the salary and expenses of an administrator to oversee such activities. Allows program funds to be used to renovate or repair a child care facility, other than a private residence, as necessary to bring the facility into compliance with requirements for State licensing or for accreditation by organizations with nationally recognized standards for providing high-quality care to children. Provides for consumer education and information sharing under CCDBGA. Revises CCDBGA reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on: (1) State quality benchmark reports; and (2) the extent to which program funds have improved the quality of child care. Establishes a program of research and demonstrations under CCDBGA. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out research, demonstration projects, and other activities relating to child care, including activities designed to improve the quality and increase the availability of child care. Requires such activities to be coordinated with activities under the Department of Education's Office of Educational Research and Improvement. Includes among authorized activities: (1) research on child care needs of low-income families, good policies and practices, and retention of child care provider staff; (2) demonstrations of technology-based education and training and of new methods; and (3) establishment and operation of a National Center on Child Care Statistics and a hotline for child care resources, referrals and consumer education. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 4) Establishes the Advisory Commission on Quality Child Care to study and report to the President, the Congress, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on: (1) the most important issues affecting the quality of child care; (2) the most efficient and effective manner of ensuring that families in the United States receive quality health care; and (3) other related topics.

Bill· HRH.R. 4830 (105th)open

To provide support for certain institutes and schools.

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 1998

Bill· HRH.R. 4836 (105th)referred

QMB Improvement Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 1998

QMB Improvement Act of 1998 - Amends part A (General Provisions) of title XI of the Social Security Act (SSA), as well as SSA title XIX (Medicaid) and the Internal Revenue Code, to establish a mechanism for promoting the provision of Medicare cost-sharing assistance under Medicaid to eligible low-income Medicare beneficiaries.

Bill· HRH.R. 4835 (105th)referred

COBRA Extension Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 1998

COBRA Extension Act of 1998 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to extend health plan insurance continuation coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) for surviving spouses.

Bill· HRH.R. 4825 (105th)referred

Childhood Lead Poisoning Protection Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 13 October 1998

Childhood Lead Poisoning Protection Act of 1998 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for a reduced Federal medical assistance percentage for States that fail to meet specified minimum blood lead screening rates established by this Act, subject to waiver by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in the case of a State that has performed during a fiscal year such a significant number of lead blood level assessments that the State reasonably cannot be expected to achieve the appropriate minimum blood lead screening rate. Requires the State Medicaid plan to provide for reporting to the Secretary: (1) the number of children who are not more than two years of age and enrolled in the Medicaid program; and (2) the number and results of lead blood level assessments performed by the State, along with demographic and identifying information consistent with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with respect to lead surveillance. Requires each contract between the State and an entity responsible for provision of medical assistance under the State plan to provide for: (1) compliance with mandatory screening requirements for lead blood level assessments commensurate with guidelines and mandates issued by the Secretary through the Administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration; as well as (2) coverage of appropriate qualified lead treatment services, as prescribed by CDC guidelines, for children with elevated levels of lead in their blood. Allows reimbursement for qualified lead treatment services for children with elevated blood lead levels. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 and the Head Start Act to mandate lead poisoning screening for an infant or child to be eligible to participate in either the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, or early Head Start programs.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 596 (105th)referred

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to the seriousness of the national problems associated with mental illness and with respect to congressional intent to establish a "Mental Illness Working Group".

United States · United States Congress · 13 October 1998

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that a "Mental Illness Working Group" should be established to probe the serious national dimensions of the mentally ill.

Bill· SS. 2626 (105th)referred

Health Care for America's Children Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1998

Health Care for America's Children Act of 1998 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to pay a children's enrollment performance bonus to each State that: (1) demonstrates its commitment to reach and enroll Medicaid-eligible children in its State Medicaid plan through implementation of various specified outreach activities; and (2) reports annually to the Secretary on the number of full year equivalent Medicaid-eligible children who enrolled under the State Medicaid plan as a result of having been provided presumptive eligibility and having applied for Medicaid assistance through an outstationed eligibility worker and by mail or telephone.

Bill· SS. 2625 (105th)referred

Cigars Are Not a Safe Smoking Alternative Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1998

Cigars Are Not A Safe Smoking Alternative Act - Prohibits any person from selling or distributing a cigar to any individual under 18. Requires that cigar retailers: (1) ensure that all cigars are located in areas where customers do not have direct access; and (2) sell cigars only in face-to-face exchanges. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to impose restrictions on the sale, advertising, distribution, and marketing of cigars directed at youth as appropriate to limit sale to individuals 18 or over. Prohibits advertising cigars on any form of electronic communication. Directs the Secretary to encourage cigar manufacturers to end the practice of paying for, or participating in, the placement of cigars in movies and on television where a substantial segment of the audience is under 18. Mandates health warnings on the labels of cigars, cigar packaging, and advertising and marketing materials and messages. Requires a study and report to the Congress and the President on: (1) the health effects of occasional cigar smoking, nicotine dependence demonstrated by cigar smokers, biological uptake of toxic and carcinogenic constituents of cigars, and environmental cigar smoke exposure; and (2) the yields of tar, nicotine, carbon monoxide, and any other additive designated by the Secretary. Requires cigar manufacturers to report to the Secretary on those yields. Requires a study and report to the Congress and the President by the Federal Trade Commission on current cigar sales, advertising, and marketing practices. Directs the Secretary to monitor trends in youth access to and use of cigars and, if cigars are inappropriately accessible to, or becoming an attractive alternative to smoking cigarettes for, children and adolescents, to notify the Congress and make recommendations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4812 (105th)referred

To make the Federal employees health benefits program available to individuals age 55 to 65 who would not otherwise have health insurance, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1998

Amends provisions relating to Federal employees' health insurance to permit any qualified individual (an individual who is age 55 to 65 and has not been covered under any health insurance policy for at least the preceding 30 days) to enroll in an approved health benefits plan for self alone, so long as such individual pays currently into the Employees Health Benefits Fund, under arrangements acceptable to the Office of Personnel Management, the full amount of the subscription charges required.

Bill· SS. 2620 (105th)referred

National Clean Water Trust Fund Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

National Clean Water Trust Fund Act of 1998 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish a National Clean Water Trust Fund to be composed of monies obtained through enforcement actions. Makes the Fund available for projects to restore waters from damages resulting from violations of such Act and from the discharge of pollutants. Authorizes the use of civil penalties obtained under such Act for mitigation, restoration, or other projects that enhance public health or the environment.

Bill· SS. 2619 (105th)referred

Veterans' Access to Emergency Care Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

Veterans' Access to Emergency Care Act of 1998 - Declares the annual patient enrollment system of the Department of Veterans Affairs to be a health care plan and the veterans enrolled in such system to be participants in a health care plan. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to contract for the emergency health care of such veterans in non-Department facilities. Includes such contracted emergency care within the definition of authorized Department medical services. Authorizes the reimbursement of enrolled veterans for expenses incurred in the treatment of any medical emergency which poses a serious threat to life or health. Directs the Secretary to require in such a contract that payment by the Secretary for treatment of enrolled veterans at the non-Department facility be made only after any payment that may be made with respect to such treatment: (1) under part A or B of the Medicare program (title XVIII of the Social Security Act); and (2) by a third-party insurance provider.

Bill· HRH.R. 4794 (105th)referred

Fairness in Prescription Drug Prices Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

Fairness in Prescription Drug Prices Act - Allows any qualified pharmacy to enter into an agreement with the Secretary of Health and Human Services to enable it to sell covered outpatient drugs to Medicare beneficiaries (under title XVIII of the Social Security Act) at a reduced price. Requires such an agreement to: (1) entitle the participating pharmacy to purchase any covered outpatient drug listed on the Federal Supply Schedule of the General Services Administration at the participating pharmacy discount price for that drug; and (2) permit the participating pharmacy to purchase under this Act as much of a covered outpatient drug as it sells to Medicare beneficiaries. Sets forth guidelines for determining the participating pharmacy discount price and a special rule for Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a hospice program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) administer this Act in a manner that uses existing methods of obtaining and distributing drugs to the maximum extent possible, consistent with efficiency and cost effectiveness; and (2) report to the Congress annually regarding the effectiveness of this Act in protecting Medicare beneficiaries from discriminatory pricing by drug manufacturers, along with any appropriate legislative recommendations to further reduce the cost of covered outpatient drugs to such beneficiaries.

Bill· HRH.R. 4804 (105th)referred

Long-Term Care Patient Protection Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

Long-Term Care Patient Protection Act of 1998 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to prohibit nursing facilities and skilled nursing facilities from using on a full-time or other paid basis as a feeding and hydration assistant any individual who has not completed a related, State-approved training and competency evaluation and is not competent to provide such services. Requires States to specify, and provide for review and reapproval of, approved programs meeting Federal requirements. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish such requirements, as well as requirements respecting the minimum frequency and methodology a State shall use in reviewing compliance with them.

Bill· HRH.R. 4800 (105th)referred

Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Registry Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Registry Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize grants to: (1) States or their designees to operate the State's traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury registry; and (2) academic institutions to conduct applied research to support the registries. Regulates registry data confidentiality. Authorizes technical assistance, directly or through grants and contracts, regarding the registries and regarding development of model legislation. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4789 (105th)referred

Elderly and Disabled Protection Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

Elderly and Disabled Protection Act of 1998 - Declares that a nursing facility (including a skilled nursing facility), home health agency, or hospice program (covered facility) under the Medicare and Medicaid programs of titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act may not: (1) employ an individual as a direct care employee unless the facility has requested from the State direct care employee registry a background check (including a criminal as well as an abusive work history background check); or (2) continue to employ such an individual if the background check report reveals a conviction of a disqualifying crime. Requires the covered facility to report to such registry documented findings of patient abuse by a direct care employee. Imposes civil penalties upon covered facilities that violate such requirements. Defines "direct care employee" as a paid, nonvolunteer nurse aide, home health care aide, personal care assistant, private duty nurse aide, day attendant, housekeeper, library attendant, laundry assistant, or similar worker who performs nursing or related tasks involving direct patient care in a covered facility. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish methods by which State direct care registries can pool and share criminal background check summaries and documented findings of patient abuse (national registry coordination system). Requires each State to expand its direct care employee registry in order to carry out such background checks and other related functions, including reporting of summary information to the national registry coordination system. Sets forth procedures for criminal and abusive work history background checks.

Bill· HRH.R. 4799 (105th)referred

Early Medicare Access and Affordability Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Access to Medicare Benefits for Individuals 62-to- 65 Years of Age Title II: Access to Medicare Benefits for Displaced Workers 55-to-62 Years of Age Title III: Cobra Protection for Early Retirees Subtitle A: Amendments to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 Subtitle B: Amendments to the Public Health Service Act Subtitle C: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 Title IV: Financing Title V: Provision of Premium Assistance for Low-Income Individuals Purchasing Early Coverage Under the Medicare Program Early Medicare Access and Affordability Act of 1998 - Title I: Access to Medicare Benefits for Individuals 62-to-65 Years of Age - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new part D (Purchase of Medicare Benefits by Certain Individuals Age 62-to-65 Years of Age). Makes eligible to enroll in Medicare during a specified period individuals between the ages of 62 and 65 who: (1) are not eligible for coverage under group health plans or Federal health insurance; but (2) would be Medicare-eligible if age 65. (Sec. 101) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to determine rates for the base monthly premium, the base annual premium, and the deferred monthly premium for individuals age 62 or older. Requires the Secretary to: (1) adjust and limit the maximum base annual premium in a premium area to assure participation in all areas of the United States; and (2) provide for payment and collection of the base monthly premium. Makes the enrollee liable for the deferred monthly premium payment between ages 65 and 85. Requires collection of both premiums in the same manner as for the payment of monthly premiums under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Creates in the Treasury the Medicare Early Access Trust Fund (Trust Fund) to hold collected premiums as well as the savings from new fraud and abuse initiatives under the Medicare Fraud and Overpayment Act of 1998 (if enacted), which are transferred to it out of the Medicare trust funds. Directs: (1) the Trust Fund's Board of Trustees to report annually to the Congress on the need for adjustments in the new program in order to maintain its financial solvency; and (2) the Comptroller General to report periodically to the Congress on the adequacy of program financing along with appropriate recommendations to accomplish such end. Requires: (1) individuals enrolled under the new part D program to be treated for Medicare purposes as though they were entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) and enrolled under Medicare part B; and (2) new part D program benefits to be payable under Medicare to such individuals in the same manner as if they were so entitled and enrolled. Provides that the new part D program shall not be treated as Medicare for purposes of the Medicaid program under SSA title XIX, including the provision of Medicare cost-sharing assistance, nor for purposes of COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) continuation requirements of the Public Health Service Act. Title II: Access to Medicare Benefits for Displaced Workers 55-to-62 Years of Age - Amends SSA title XVIII part D to rename the newly established part D program the Purchase of Medicare Benefits by Certain Individuals Age 55-to-65 Years of Age. Provides for part D coverage for certain displaced workers (who have lost employment- based, including COBRA continuation, coverage) and spouses between the ages of 55 and 62 under arrangements similar to those in title I, except for deferred monthly premiums. Directs the Secretary to provide for continued enrollment of displaced workers who attain 62 years of age. Title III: COBRA Protection for Early Retirees - Subtitle A: Amendments to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to extend specified group health plan insurance COBRA continuation coverage to qualified retirees and their dependents in cases of substantial reduction or termination of a retiree group health plan. Permits an increased level of premiums in the case of an individual provided continuation coverage by reason of the qualifying event. Subtitle B: Amendments to the Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to extend specified group health plan insurance COBRA continuation coverage to qualified retirees and their dependents in cases of substantial reduction or termination of a retiree group health plan. Permits an increased level of premiums in the case of an individual provided continuation coverage by reason of the qualifying event. Subtitle C: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend specified group health plan insurance COBRA continuation coverage to qualified retirees and their dependents in cases of substantial reduction or termination of a retiree group health plan. Permits an increased level of premiums in the case of an individual provided continuation coverage by reason of the qualifying event. Title IV: Financing - Requires any increase in payments under the Medicare program that results from the enactment of this Act to be offset by reductions in Medicare payments pursuant to the anti-fraud and -abuse provisions of the Medicare Fraud and Overpayment Act of 1998 (if enacted). Title V: Provision of Premium Assistance for Low-Income Individuals Purchasing Early Coverage Under the Medicare Program - Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to require State Medicaid plans to provide for 100-percent Federal Medicare-cost sharing premium assistance for certain low-income individuals enrolled under the new part D program. (Sec. 501) Amends SSA title XI to increase the amount of certain grants to the territories to reflect this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4791 (105th)referred

To establish rules for the payment of damage awards for future losses in certain health care liability actions.

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1998

Provides that in a health care liability action brought under Federal law or in Federal court in which damages awarded to a claimant for future economic and noneconomic loss combined exceed $50,000, the claimant shall not be required to receive such damages in a single, lump-sum payment. Entitles such claimant to request the court to order payment in whole or in part on a periodic basis. Requires a court awarding periodic payments to attempt to ensure that the amount of such payments, along with any lump-sum payment, constitute a full recovery of the claimant's future loss and that the payment schedule is in the best interests of the claimant. (Sec. 2) Makes such provisions inapplicable to any such action: (1) for damages arising from a vaccine-related injury or death to the extent that provisions of the Public Health Service Act (regarding the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program) apply; or (2) under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. (Sec. 3) Provides that, except where specifically authorized by statute, the judgment of a court awarding periodic payments may not, in the absence of fraud, be reopened at any time to contest, amend, or modify the schedule or amount of the payments. (Sec. 4) Directs that a court awarding such periodic payments, upon request of the claimant to receive the award, require the person ordered to make the payments to make assurances that satisfy the court that the payments will be made by: (1) making a qualified assignment of the periodic payment liability; (2) purchasing an annuity contract issued by a company licensed to do business as an insurance company under the laws of any State; (3) purchasing obligations of the United States; or (4) providing other assurances. (Sec. 5) Specifies that this Act shall not be construed to preclude a settlement that provides for a single, lump-sum payment.

Bill· SS. 2616 (105th)open

Medicare Home Health Fair Payment Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Medicare Home Health Fair Payment Act of 1998 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, with respect to the computation formula of the interim system of limited payments for services provided by home health agencies, as amended by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, in order to: (1) create a new formula for cost reporting periods beginning on or after October 1, 1998 with the agency-specific per beneficiary annual limitation calculated on a different basis which still makes use of the agency's census division; (2) revise the rules for new providers for cost reporting periods beginning on or after October 1, 1998; (3) provide for a five percent increase in per visit cost limits for such cost reporting periods; (4) provide for a one year delay in establishment of a prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services and in implementation of the mandatory 15 percent reduction in cost and per beneficiary limits under such interim system; and (5) adjust the home health market basket update for home health services under PPS and such interim system, reducing it by a specified percentage for any cost reporting period beginning in FY 2000 or 2001, and increasing it by another specified percentage for any cost reporting period beginning in FY 2004. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat: (1) a taxpayer as having omitted a correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) for purposes of mathematical error assessment if information provided by the taxpayer on the return with respect to the individual whose TIN was provided differs from the information the Secretary of the Treasury obtains from the person issuing the TIN; and (2) as a mathematical error the inclusion on a return of a TIN if it is of an individual whose age affects the amount of the tax credit involved and the computation of such credit reflects the treatment of such individual as being of an age different from the individual's age based on such TIN. Adds the vaccine against rotavirus gastroenteritis to the list of taxable vaccines for Federal sales tax purposes. Limits specified liability losses for purposes of the net operating loss deduction to those attributable to a liability under a Federal or State law requiring the reclamation of land, decommissioning of a nuclear power plant (or any unit thereof), dismantlement of an offshore drilling platform, remediation of environmental contamination, or payment of workmen's compensation. Limits the rule waiving the accrual method requirement for any portion of payment amounts which will not be collected to persons performing services in the fields of health, law, engineering, architecture, accounting, actuarial science, performing arts, or consulting. Applies to any organization a significant trade or business of which is the lending of money the requirement of filing a return relating to the cancellation of indebtedness.

Bill· SS. 2598 (105th)referred

Children's Lead Paint Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Children's Lead Prevention and Inclusive Treatment Act of 1998 (or the Children's Lead PAInT Act) - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for a reduced Federal medical assistance percentage for States that fail to meet specified minimum blood lead screening rates established by this Act, subject to waiver by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in the case of a State that has performed during a fiscal year such a significant number of lead blood level assessments that the State reasonably cannot be expected to achieve the appropriate minimum blood lead screening rate. Requires the State Medicaid plan to provide for reporting to the Secretary: (1) the number of children who are not more than two years of age and enrolled in the Medicaid program; and (2) the number and results of lead blood level assessments performed by the State, along with demographic and identifying information consistent with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with respect to lead surveillance. Requires each contract between the State and an entity responsible for provision of medical assistance under the State plan to provide for: (1) compliance with mandatory screening requirements for lead blood level assessments commensurate with guidelines and mandates issued by the Secretary through the Administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration; as well as (2) coverage of appropriate qualified lead treatment services, as prescribed by CDC guidelines, for children with elevated levels of lead in their blood. Allows reimbursement for qualified lead treatment services for children with elevated blood lead levels. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 and the Head Start Act to mandate lead poisoning screening for an infant or child to be eligible to participate in either the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, or early Head Start programs.

Bill· SS. 2609 (105th)referred

Medical Information Protection Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Individual's Rights Subtitle A: Review of Protected Health Information by Subjects of the Information Subtitle B: Establishment of Safeguards Title II: Restrictions on Use and Disclosure Title III: Sanctions Subtitle A: Criminal Provisions Subtitle B: Civil Sanctions Title IV: Miscellaneous Medical Information Protection Act of 1998 - Title I: Individual's Rights - Subtitle A: Review of Protected Health Information by Subjects of the Information - Requires specified health entities in possession of protected health information to arrange (except in certain circumstances) for its inspection or copying upon the request of the individual subject of such information (subject individual). Prescribes procedures for: (1) notification upon request denial, including the reasons for such denial, and the concomitant review procedures; (2) requests by such individual to amend such information; and (3) conspicuous disclosure of such entities' confidentiality practices. (Sec. 103) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to develop model notices of confidentiality. Subtitle B: Establishment of Safeguards - Mandates the establishment of: (1) administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for protected health information; and (2) a record of any protected health information disclosures not made within the health entity. Title II: Restrictions on Use and Disclosure - Prescribes guidelines for disclosure of protected health information with respect to: (1) authorizations for treatment, payment, and health care operations; (3) the individual's next of kin and directory information; (4) emergency circumstances; (5) certain oversight agencies; (6) public health authorities; (7) health researchers; (8) civil, judicial, and administrative procedures; (9) certain law enforcement procedures; (10) payment for health care through card or electronic means; (11) certain duly authorized representatives acting on behalf of a subject individual (including a deceased subject individual, and a minor); and (12) certain business sales, transfers, or mergers. (Sec. 212) Directs the Secretary to promulgate protected health information standards for electronic disclosures, authorizations, and authentications. (Sec. 214) Precludes permissible disclosures from liability. Title III: Sanctions - Subtitle A: Criminal Provisions - Amends the Federal criminal code to impose criminal penalties for knowingly and intentionally obtaining or disclosing protected health information in violation of title II of this Act. Subtitle B: Civil Sanctions - Establishes civil monetary penalties for substantial and material failure to comply with this Act. (Sec. 312) Prescribes a procedure for imposition and judicial review of such penalties. (Sec. 313) Grants exclusive enforcement authority to the insurance commissioner of the life insurer's domicile State. Title IV: Miscellaneous - Preempts, subject to exceptions, any State law relating to matters covered by this Act. (Sec. 401) Authorizes the Secretaries of Defense and of Transportation to establish exceptions to the disclosure requirements of this Act with respect to Department of Defense and Coast Guard personnel, respectively, pursuant to the Secretaries' determination that exceptions are necessary for national defense purposes. (Sec. 402) Amends title XVIII (Medicare) part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits) of the Social Security Act to provide for enforcement of this Act through conditions on participation with respect to: (1) participating physicians and suppliers; (2) Medicare+Choice organizations; (3) Medicare providers; and (4) health maintenance organizations with risk-sharing contracts. (Sec. 404) Directs the National Research Council, in conjunction with the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences, to study and report to the Congress on research issues relating to protected health information.

Bill· SS. 2605 (105th)referred

Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Registry Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Bill· SS. 2611 (105th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to enable medicare beneficiaries to remain enrolled in their chosen medicare health plan.

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to change from May 1 to July 15 the annual deadline for a Medicare+Choice organization to submit to the Secretary of Health and Human Services proposed premiums and information relating to coordinated plans, Medical Savings Account (MSA) plans, and private fee-for-service plans. Authorizes the Secretary to require an interim submission before July 15. Requires a Medicare+Choice organization to notify the Secretary before July 15 during a contract term of an intention to terminate the contract at the end of the term. Reduces from five to three years the waiting period after a Medicare+choice organization's termination of a contract during which the Secretary may not contract again with such organization. Allows certain eligible organizations with risk-sharing contracts which have notified the Secretary of an intention not to convert such a contract to one offering a Medicare+Choice plan to resubmit an updated version of proposed premiums and related plan information previously submitted to make such a conversion. Requires the Secretary to act on such updated information in such a manner as to ensure that, if approved, the organization may make the conversion.

Bill· SS. 2603 (105th)referred

Promoting Health in Rural Areas Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Promoting Access to Health Care Services in Rural Areas Under the Medicare Program Title II: Additional Provisions to Address Shortages of Health Professionals in Rural Areas Title III: Development of Telehealth Networks Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions Promoting Health in Rural Areas Act of 1998 - Title I: Promoting Access to Health Care Services in Rural Areas Under the Medicare Program - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make certain adjustments to the calculation of annual capitation rates used in determining payments to Medicare+Choice organizations. (Sec. 102) Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to convert into a permanently authorized program the current demonstration program for direct billing of Medicare, Medicaid (SSA title XIX), and other third party payors by Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Alaska Native health organizations. (Sec. 103) Amends Medicare to: (1) revise payment requirements for sole community hospitals with regard to the substitution of certain allowable operating costs for base cost reporting periods beginning with discharges occurring in FY 2000; (2) provide for conversion of certain recently closed hospitals to critical access hospitals; (3) make certain technical amendments with regard to adjustments for graduate medical education, both indirect and direct; (4) modify the Medicare-dependent, small rural hospital program to provide for a reduction in the discharge percentage required for any hospital to be eligible to participate in the program; (5) provide for rural representation on the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; (6) provide for Medicare coverage of qualified mental health professional services; and (7) provide for an all-inclusive payment rate option (in addition to the current reasonable cost method) for outpatient critical access hospital services. (Sec. 109) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a waiver process in which entities and individuals under Medicare that are located in an urban or large urban area for purposes of Medicare reimbursement may apply to the Secretary to be considered to be located in a rural area for such purposes if such entity or individual is located in a rural area or outside of an urbanized area. Title II: Additional Provisions to Address Shortages of Health Professionals in Rural Areas - Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to include among health professional shortage areas frontier areas with six or fewer residents per square mile. Requires the Secretary to consider any pending retirements or resignations of available physicians when determining whether to designate an area as a health professional shortage area. (Sec. 202) Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to exclude from an individual's gross income certain amounts received under the National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program under PHSA. (Sec. 203) Amends Federal civil service law to provide for the designation of underserved areas under health care contracts administered by the Office of Personnel Management. (Sec. 204) Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (BBA '97) to extend Medicare reimbursement for telehealth services to all Medicare items and services in all rural areas, including services by physical, occupational, and speech therapists. Requires the entire payment for telehealth services to go to the consulting physician instead of being split with the referring physician. Adds additional congressional reporting requirements pertaining to such program. (Sec. 205) Expresses the sense of the Congress that States should establish a system that facilitates the provision of telehealth services across State lines. (Sec. 206) Redesignates the Joint Working Group on Telemedicine as the Joint Working Group on Telehealth, with the chairperson being designated by the Office for the Advancement on Telehealth. Directs the Joint Working Group to ensure that individuals representing the interests of rural areas are members of the Group. Establishes the mission of the Joint Working Group, among other things, as identifying, monitoring, and coordinating Federal telehealth projects and programs. Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Development of Telehealth Networks - Directs the Secretary to provide specified financial assistance for the purpose of expanding access to health care services for individuals in rural and frontier areas through the use of telehealth. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends IRC with regard to the non-deductible interest expense of financial institutions allocable to tax-exempt income, and the limited exception from such non-deductibility for interest expense on certain tax-exempt small issuer obligations. Allows a small issuer, the proceeds of whose obligations are to be used to make or finance eligible loans for health care or educational purposes, to elect to apply specified current limitations on the amount of obligations by treating each borrower as the issuer of a separate issue. (Sec. 402) Requires the heads of the National Health Service Corps, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, and the Bureau of the Census to negotiate and enter into interagency agreements with HHS agencies and offices under which they will be provided access to data sets for the intramural and extramural research they conduct or support.

Bill· SS. 2599 (105th)referred

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption of service-connection for certain veterans with Hepatitis C, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Considers hepatitis C becoming manifest in a veteran to a degree of ten percent or more to be service-connected, and therefore compensable under veterans' disability provisions, notwithstanding that there is no record of evidence of such illness during the period of such service, as long as it is shown that during such service the veteran experienced: (1) a blood transfusion before December 31, 1992; (2) blood exposure on or through skin or mucous membrane; (3) hemodialysis; (4) a tattoo, body piercing or acupuncture; (5) unexplained liver disease or abnormal liver function tests; or (6) working in a health care occupation.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 295 (105th)referred

A bill to express the sense of the Senate concerning the development of effective methods for eliminating the use of heroin.

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Expresses the sense of the Senate regarding drug control policy, including regarding: (1) methadone and heroin; and (2) alternative approaches to curing heroin addiction.

Bill· HRH.R. 4771 (105th)referred

To direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive the penalty for late enrollment under part B of the Medicare Program for certain military retirees and dependents, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Declares that there shall be no increase in the monthly premium (no penalty) for certain military retirees and dependents eligible for hospital insurance benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act who enrolled in Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) pursuant to a general enrollment period in 1998 or 1999 and remained continuously enrolled. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to take appropriate action (such as a lump sum payment or adjustment of future premium payments) to assure there is no premium increase for late enrollment for such individuals.

Bill· HRH.R. 4767 (105th)referred

Improved Children's Health Coverage Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Improved Children's Health Coverage Act of 1998 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to mandate: (1) development and use of a uniform, simplified application form for establishing eligibility for Medicaid and CHIP benefits; (2) coordinated enrollment processes; and (3) timely response to inquiries received through a national toll-free telephone number for information on children's coverage under such programs. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish such number. (Sec. 2) Declares the costs to administer such development and use to be a reasonable cost to administer a State's CHIP plan regardless of whether such expenditures might also be related to the administration of SSA title XIX. Eliminates certain limitations from applying to such administrative costs. Requires the Secretary to permit common administrative expenditures between SSA titles XIX and XXI to be paid for under SSA title XXI. Mandates periodic independent State audits of enrollment processes to determine the extent to which children provided CHIP assistance are eligible for Medicaid assistance (and, therefore, should be provided Medicaid assistance rather than CHIP assistance). Amends SSA titles XIX to provide for additional entities (including elementary and secondary schools, child support enforcement agencies, and child care resource and referral agencies) that are qualified to determine Medicaid presumptive eligibility for low-income children. (Sec. 3) Amends SSA title XXI to require a State child health plan to: (1) specify methods to ensure coordination of pediatric care within a family; (2) make the State and its contractors, and not beneficiaries and families, responsible for applying limitations on cost-sharing; (3) impose, at its option, a flat limit (of up to $500) on out-of-pocket expenditures for certain low-income children (as an alternative to the current five percent of family income); and (4) provide a grace period and prior notice before disenrollment for nonpayment of premiums. Prohibits State child health plan eligibility standards from permitting the use of mandatory waiting periods, unless the Secretary finds that such a period would not be contrary to title XXI. (Sec. 4) Amends SSA title XIX to provide for: (1) automatic reassessment of eligibility for CHIP benefits for children losing Medicaid eligibility; (2) optional CHIP coverage of low-income, uninsured pregnant women; (3) State option to cover legal immigrants under the Medicaid and CHIP programs; (4) elimination of the funding offset for exercise of the presumptive eligibility option; and (5) CHIP and Medicaid program coordination with the Maternal and Child Health Services program under SSA title V.

Bill· HRH.R. 4758 (105th)referred

Veterans' Access to Emergency Care Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1998

Veterans' Access to Emergency Care Act of 1998- Declares the annual patient enrollment system of the Department of Veterans Affairs to be a health care plan and the veterans enrolled in such system to be participants in a health care plan. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to contract for the emergency health care of such veterans in non-Department facilities. Includes such contracted emergency care within the definition of authorized Department medical services. Authorizes the reimbursement of enrolled veterans for expenses incurred in the treatment of any medical emergency which poses a serious threat to life or health. Directs the Secretary to require in such a contract that payment by the Secretary for treatment of enrolled veterans at the non-Department facility be made only after any payment that may be made with respect to such treatment: (1) under part A or B of the Medicare program (title XVIII of the Social Security Act); and (2) by a third-party insurance provider.

Bill· SS. 2582 (105th)referred