Healthcare

Catastrophic Health Insurance and Medical Assistance Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1979

Catastrophic Health Insurance and Medical Assistance Reform Act - Title I: Catastrophic Illness Insurance - Establishes a Catastrophic Health Insurance program under the Social Security Act. Sets forth the eligibility criteria for individuals. Entitles every individual who: (1) is a resident of the United States; and (2) is a citizen of, or a lawfully admitted alien in, the United States to catastrophic health insurance benefits provided by this Act in cases where the individual is not covered by an employer plan. Delimits the scope of benefits, including hospital and related insurance benefits (hospital, post-hospital and home health services) and medical and other health services. Provides for a general deductible from: (1) the reasonable costs of inpatient hospital services past 60 days; and (2) inpatient hospital benefits of the higher of the following: (A) $2,000; or (B) $2,000 adjusted by the Consumer Price Index to reflect changes in fees for physician services (in $100 increments). Permits payments for specified mental health care services. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate regulations prescribing standards designed to assure that services consisting of the furnishing of blood or blood products, or the application of procedures or courses of treatment which are experimental or extraordinarily complex, will be provided only when such services are appropriate to the health care needs of the patient. Creates, in the United States Treasury, a Federal Catastrophic Health Insurance Trust Fund to provide a reserve for payment of benefits authorized by this Act. States that individuals covered under approved employer or self-employed plans shall be entitled to those benefits rather than the benefits provided by the catastrophic health insurance plan. Defines the term "employer plan" as meaning an insurance policy, contract, or other arrangement entered into between an employer and a carrier, in consideration of premiums or other periodic payments, undertaken to pay for the costs of health services received by the employer's employees. Requires that the coverage provided under such plans must include a package of benefits which is the same as that provided by the Federal catastrophic health insurance benefits plan established under this Act. Sets forth additional requirements governing employer health plans. Establishes an Actuarial Committee to prepare and recommend annually to the Secretary a Table of Values of Catastrophic Health Insurance Coverage, which shall establish the actuarial value of one year's catastrophic health insurance coverage for employers, carriers, and others involved in the programs. Creates a tax on self- employment income and an excise tax on employers. Allows a tax credit up to the entire amount of such taxes for the actuarial value of catastrophic health insurance coverage for the self-employed and for the employees covered under approved employer plans. Title II: Medical Assistance Plan for Low-Income People - Replaces the Medicaid program with a plan of medical assistance for low-income people. Requires assistance for low-income individuals and families, for the costs of necessary hospital, skilled nursing facility, medical, and other health care services. Guarantees free choice by patients of health services from any person, institution, or agency qualified under this act. Permits individuals the option of obtaining other health insurance protection. Describes the medical assistance plan, what individuals are eligible to receive its health benefits, and the application procedure. Enumerates the scope of benefits under the plan, including: (1) 60 days of inpatient hospital services; (2) medical and other health services; (3) skilled nursing facility services; (4) home health services; (5) intermediate care services; (6) mental health services; (7) pre-natal and well-baby care; (8) family planning assistance; (9) early and periodic screening diagnosis, and treatment for eligible children under age 18; and (10) payment for Medicare Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for recipients of aid under this title. Prescribes the co-payment requirements and procedures of persons eligible for benefits. Creates the Medical Coverage Trust Fund within the Treasury. Makes provisions for State contributions to the Fund. Prohibits exclusion by employers of specified employees from coverage under group health insurance plans. Title III: Private Basic Health Insurance Certification Program - Establishes a program, under the Social Security Act, under which any insurer may submit any health insurance policy to the Secretary for examination and certification. Sets forth the standards under which the Secretary shall deny certification of any such insurance policy. Requires the Secretary to offer basic Federal health insurance to individuals residing in States in which no private health insurance program has been certified. Title IV: Other Amendments - Authorizes payments for immunizations which the Secretary determines are appropriate under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, but only if provided on a scheduled allowable basis, as determined under regulations promulgated by the Secretary. Increases the amount of reimbursement under Medicare for outpatient mental health care. Reduces the monthly premium for optional coverage under the Medicare hospital insurance programs. Extends coverage of the renal disease program authorized under such Act to specified individuals not previously covered. Expresses the policy of Congress to encourage and expand philanthropic support for health care.

A bill to amend the Social Security Act by adding thereto a new title XXI which will require employers to provide insurance against the costs of catastrophic illness for their employees and their families; by providing tax credit to assist other persons to purchase such coverage on their own behalf; by replacing the medicaid program with a Federal medical assistance plan for low-income people, and by adding a new title XV thereto which will encourage and facilitate the availability, through private insurance carriers, of basic health insurance at reasonable premium charges, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1979

Title I: Catastrophic Illness Insurance - Establishes a Catastrophic Health Insurance Program under the Social Security Act. Requires every employer to provide protection under an approved catastrophic health insurance plan for employees not already under an approved employer plan. States that employers who have a payroll of $250,000 or less will be eligible for a refundable 50 percent tax credit, if they choose such a credit in lieu of claiming premium payments as business expenses, under the Internal Revenue Code. Authorizes individuals not covered under an employer catastrophic health insurance plan to purchase an equivalent individual plan and be eligible for a similar 50 percent credit with respect to premium payments. Defines the term "employer plan" as meaning an insurance policy, contract, or other arrangement entered into between an employer and a carrier, in consideration of premiums or other periodic payments, undertaken to pay for the costs of health services received by the employer's employees. Requires an employer plan or an individual coverage plan to be a plan offered by a carrier approved by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and to include: (1) hospital and related insurance benefits (hospital, post-hospital and home health services); and (2) medical and other health services. Directs the Secretary to offer an approved catastrophic health insurance policy in States where an approved policy is not generally available to employers or individuals. Provides for a general deductible from: (1) hospital and related services; and from (2) medical and other health services. Permits payments for specified mental health care services. Sets forth requirements, including coverage requirements, necessary for the approval of health insurance plans by the Secretary. Establishes an Actuarial Committee to prepare and recommend annually to the Secretary a Table of Values of Catastrophic Health Insurance Coverage, which shall establish the actuarial value of one year's catastrophic health insurance coverage for employers, carriers, and others involved in the programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish the catastrophic health insurance tax credit for employers with a payroll of $250,000 or less a year and for individuals not covered by employer plans. Limits the total credits authorized a taxpayer to a maximum of 100 percent of the premiums against which such credits are allowable. Exempts States and local governments from the $250,000 payroll limitation. Imposes on employers who have failed to insure their employees under an approved catastrophic health insurance plan a tax equal to 150 percent of the amount of premiums that it is estimated such employers would have paid had their employees been so insured. Title II: Medical Assistance Plan for Low-Income People - Replaces the Medicaid program with a plan of medical assistance for low-income people. Requires assistance for low-income individuals and families, for the costs of necessary hospital, skilled nursing facility, medical, and other health care services. Guarantees free choice by patients of health services from any person, institution, or agency qualified under this Act. Permits individuals the option of obtaining other health insurance protection. Describes the medical assistance plan, eligibility requirements, and the application procedure. Enumerates the scope of benefits under the plan, including: (1) 60 days of inpatient hospital services; (2) medical and other health services; (3) skilled nursing facility services; (4) home health services; (5) intermediate care services; (6) mental health services; (7) pre-natal and well-baby care; (8) family planning assistance; (9) early and periodic screening diagnosis, and treatment for eligible children under age 18; and (10) payment for Medicare Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for recipients of aid under this title. Prescribes the co-payment requirements and procedures of persons eligible for benefits. Creates the Medical Coverage Trust Fund within the Treasury. Makes provisions for State contributions to the Fund. Prohibits exclusion by employers of specified employees from coverage under group health insurance plans. Title III: Private Health Insurance Certification Program - Establishes a program, under the Social Security Act, under which any insurer may submit any health insurance policy to the Secretary for examination and certification. Sets forth the standards under which the Secretary shall deny certification of any such insurance policy. Requires the Secretary to offer basic Federal health insurance to individuals residing in States in which no private health insurance program has been certified. Title IV: Other Amendments - Authorizes payments for immunizations which the Secretary determines are appropriate under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, but only if provided on a scheduled allowable basis, as determined under regulations promulgated by the Secretary. Increases the amount of reimbursement under Medicare for outpatient mental health care. Reduces the monthly premium for optional coverage under the Medicare hospital insurance programs. Extends coverage of the renal disease program authorized under such Act to specified individuals not previously covered. Expresses the policy of Congress to encourage and expand philanthropic support for health care.

Vergabe von Forschungsprojekten zur Förderung und Entwicklung im Gesundheitswesen (G-SIG: 00049743)

Germany · German Bundestag · 23 March 1979

A bill to amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act to strengthen the capabilities of States and the Federal Government to detect medicaid fraud and abuse.

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979

Requires States under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to establish mechanized claims processing and information retrieval systems in order to increase the efficiency of the administration of a State's medicaid plan and prevent medicaid fraud and abuse. Penalizes States which do not establish such systems by reducing specified medicaid payments. Waives the provisions of this Act with respect to States which would not significantly benefit from the implementation of such system.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the medicare program for certain services performed by chiropractors.

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize payment for specified services performed by chiropractors, including x-rays and for physical examinations, and for related routine laboratory tests.

Good Samaritan Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979

Good Samaritan Act - Declares: (1) that any licensed medical personnel or aircraft employee who, in good faith, renders emergency care to an injured or ill person aboard an aircraft shall not be liable for any civil damages as a result of any act or omission by such individual in rendering such care, except for any act or omission amounting to gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct; and (2) that any such individual shall not be liable for any such act or omission in rendering continued emergency care to the injured or ill person during transportation from the aircraft to a medical facility for further treatment or care.

Medicare Home Health Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979

Medicare Home Health Amendments of 1979 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to remove the 100 visit limitation presently applicable to home health care services under such title. Eliminates prior hospitalization as a condition of eligibility for home health care services under part A (Hospital Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of such title. Eliminates confinement to home as a requirement for receiving home health care services under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of such title. Includes "periodic chore services" within those home health services for which payment may be made under the supplementary medical insurance program.

Federal Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979

Federal Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Act of 1979 - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to provide financial assistance to: (1) appropriate entities for the planning, development, and operation of eight regional preventive medicine centers; (2) public and private entities for research, development, and demonstrations in specified health promotion areas; and (3) public and nonprofit private educational organizations and agencies and regional preventive medicine centers for (A) demonstration projects designed to provide children with information about health risks and with behavioral skills to eliminate such risks, and (B) development and training of health manpower for faculty, administrative, and traineeship support of preventive medicine personnel. Directs the Secretary to report to the President and Congress on the impact of this Act and specified subjects relating to health promotion.

A bill to amend title XV of the Public Health Service Act to limit the planning and promotion functions of health systems agencies under that title to planning for and promotion of health care facilities and personnel.

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979

Amends title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Health Planning and Development) to eliminate as a primary responsibility of health systems agencies the promotion of the development of health services within the health service area. Provides that the health systems plan developed by a health systems agency shall be a detailed statement of goals for health care facilities and personnel in the area, rather than a detailed statement of goals describing a healthful environment and health systems in the area, which will assure the availability and accessibility of quality health services.

Health Planning Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1979

Health Planning Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Three-Year Authorization Extensions - Amends title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Health Planning and Development) to extend the authorization of appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for planning grants to health systems agencies (HSAs) and grants to State health planning and development agencies (State Agencies) for operational costs and rate regulation. Title II: Amendments to Health Planning Authorities - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to revise health service area boundaries if the boundaries of the proposed health service area would better meet the current requirements for such areas. Subjects the budget, health systems plan, and annual implementation plan developed by the governing body of an HSA which is a public regional planning body or single unit of general local government to approval by such planning body or government unit. Provides that records and meetings of an HSA except for personnel matters shall be available to the public. Stipulates that consumers on HSA governing bodies cannot have been "direct" health care providers within the 12 months preceding appointment, instead of "health care providers" as currently provided. Requires an HSA to review triennially, rather than annually, its health systems plan. Requires the State Agency to revise triennially the preliminary State health plan and the Statewide Health Coordinating Council (SHCC) to revise triennially the State health plan. Authorizes the Secretary to designate conditionally for up to two years an HSA or a State Agency which has not had its designation agreement renewed. Allows the carry-over of unobligated grants to HSAs and State Agencies to the succeeding fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to determine the amount of any grant to designated HSAs (thus eliminating the current formula for such grants). Authorizes the Secretary to extend the conditional designation of a State Agency for a period longer than the current three-year limit, where such Agency is found to be making a good faith effort to meet the State Agency functions. Replaces the current penalty provision for States which do not have a designated State Agency after a certain period (which eliminates funding under specified Acts) with a graduated scheme which reduces by 25 percent such funding on an annual basis. Applies the State certificate of need program which a State Agency must administer to major medical equipment, in addition to new institutional health services as currently provided. Redefines "institutional health services" to exclude health maintenance organizations. Requires that the services and facilities to be offered or developed in the State under the certificate of need program be consistent with the State health plan. Requires the State Agencies in reviewing existing institutional health services to make public institution by institution findings concerning services specified by the Secretary, with respect to the appropriateness of such services. Repeals the requirement that State Agencies make findings as to the need of new institutional health services. Makes the representation of HSAs on the Statewide Health Coordinating Council proportional to the share of the State's population in the agency's health service area (instead of equal as currently provided). Authorizes the Governor of the State to: (1) select, or direct the SHCC members to select, the SHCC chairman; and (2) modify the State health plan and the health systems plans after consultation with the SHCC and a public statement of the reasons. Requires the review by HSAs and State Agencies of health maintenance organization services to be consistent with standards and procedures established by the Secretary pursuant to title XIII of the Public Health Service Act (Health Maintenance Organizations). Makes the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico subject to the special, rather than the general, provisions of title XV. Title III: Assistance to Hospitals for Discontinuing Inappropriate Inpatient Services and for State Decertification Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to: (1) public or private nonprofit hospitals to assist them in discontinuing inpatient hospital services which the Secretary determines are inappropriate; and (2) State Agencies for planning and carrying out programs to decertify health care facilities providing health services which are inappropriate.

A bill to amend title VII of the Public Health Service Act to provide for making of grants to schools of medicine and osteopathy to assist them in the establishment and operation of educational programs in geriatrics.

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1979

Amends title VII of the Public Health Service Act (Health Research and Teaching Facilities and Training of Professional Health Personnel) to authorize the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to schools of medicine and osteopathy for the establishment and operation of educational programs in geriatrics.

Health Planning Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1979

Health Planning Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Three-Year Authorization Extensions - Amends title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Health Planning and Development) to extend the authorization of appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for planning grants to health systems agencies (HSAs) and grants to State health planning and development agencies (State Agencies) for operational costs and rate regulation. Title II: Amendments to Health Planning Authorities - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to revise health service area boundaries if the boundaries of the proposed health service area would better meet the current requirements for such areas. Subjects the budget, health systems plan, and annual implementation plan developed by the governing body of an HSA which is a public regional planning body or single unit of general local government to approval by such planning body or government unit. Provides that records and meetings of an HSA except for personnel matters shall be available to the public. Stipulates that consumers on HSA governing bodies cannot have been "direct" health care providers within the 12 months preceding appointment, instead of "health care providers" as currently provided. Requires an HSA to review triennially, rather than annually, its health systems plan. Requires the State Agency to revise triennially the preliminary State health plan and the Statewide Health Coordinating Council (SHCC) to revise triennially the State health plan. Authorizes the Secretary to designate conditionally for up to two years an HSA or a State Agency which has not had its designation agreement renewed. Allows the carry-over of unobligated grants to HSAs and State Agencies to the succeeding fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to determine the amount of any grant to designated HSAs (thus eliminating the current formula for such grants). Authorizes the Secretary to extend the conditional designation of a State Agency for a period longer than the current three-year limit, where such Agency is found to be making a good faith effort to meet the State Agency functions. Replaces the current penalty provision for States which do not have a designated State Agency after a certain period (which eliminates funding under specified Acts) with a graduated scheme which reduces by 25 percent such funding on an annual basis. Applies the State certificate of need program which a State Agency must administer to major medical equipment, in addition to new institutional health services as currently provided. Redefines "institutional health services" to exclude health maintenance organizations. Requires that the services and facilities to be offered or developed in the State under the certificate of need program be consistent with the State health plan. Requires the State Agencies in reviewing existing institutional health services to make public institution by institution findings concerning services specified by the Secretary, with respect to the appropriateness of such services. Repeals the requirement that State Agencies make findings as to the need of new institutional health services. Makes the representation of HSAs on the Statewide Health Coordinating Council proportional to the share of the State's population in the agency's health service area (instead of equal as currently provided). Authorizes the Governor of the State to: (1) select, or direct the SHCC members to select, the SHCC chairman; and (2) modify the State health plan and the health systems plans after consultation with the SHCC and a public statement of the reasons. Requires the review by HSAs and State Agencies of health maintenance organization services to be consistent with standards and procedures established by the Secretary pursuant to title XIII of the Public Health Service Act (Health Maintenance Organizations). Makes the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico subject to the special, rather than the general, provisions of title XV. Title III: Assistance to Hospitals for Discontinuing Inappropriate Inpatient Services and for State Decertification Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to: (1) public or private nonprofit hospitals to assist them in discontinuing inpatient hospital services which the Secretary determines are inappropriate; and (2) State Agencies for planning and carrying out programs to decertify health care facilities providing health services which are inappropriate.

Public Health Service Administrative Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1979

Public Health Service Administrative Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the appointment of warrant officers to the Public Health Service for the purpose of providing support to the health and delivery systems maintained by the Service. Revises the pay and grade structure of members of the Public Health Service. Authorizes the Surgeon General to detail Public Health Service personnel to any appropriate committee of Congress. Stipulates that officers who receive educational assistance and who fail to complete their obligated period of service shall repay the Service twice the amount of assistance received. Entitles commissioned officers of the Service or their beneficiaries to the same rights and privileges as are provided to commissioned officers of the Army with respect to: (1) correction of military records; (2) review of discharge or dismissal; and (3) review of retirement or separation without pay for physical disability. Entitles commissioned officers of the Reserve Corps of the Service who have had at least five years of continuous active duty and who are involuntarily separated from the Service to severance pay. Entitles commissioned officers, other than medical or dental officers, who obtain a masters degree, where such degree is required for appointment, to an additional service credit of one year. Entitles such officers who receive a doctoral degree to an additional service credit of three years. Authorizes advance pay of up to three months for members of the Service under specified conditions. Entitles commissioned officers of the Service who are on inactive duty training and who are required to wear a uniform to a uniform allowance.

Emergency Medical Services Systems and Health Information and Promotion Extensions of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979

Emergency Medical Services Systems and Health Information and Promotion Extensions of 1979 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to extend through fiscal year 1982 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) emergency medical services systems; (2) health information and promotion; and (3) immunization programs. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to defer for an additional year (beyond the current three-year limit for such deferment) the date used with respect to service requirements for National Health Service Corps scholarships for students of medicine, osteopathy, or dentistry. Eliminates the grant set-aside for dentistry training. Repeals: (1) the comprehensive health planning program (which was superseded by title XV, the National Health Planning and Development Act); (2) the provision of title XV which gives priority for designation of health service areas which formerly had an area wide Comprehensive Health Planning Agency; and (3) title IX of the Public Health Service Act (Education, Research, Training, and Demonstrations in the Fields of Heart Disease, Cancer, Stroke, Kidney Disease, and Other Related Diseases). Amends title XIII of such Act (Health Maintenance Organizations) to eliminate the provision which allows an entity which provides prepaid health services and has members eligible for services under Medicare, Medicaid, and the Federal employees' health insurance program to be treated as HMOs for purposes of receiving assistance under such title.

A bill to extend for three fiscal years the expiring health information programs under title XVII of the Public Health Service Act, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979

Amends title XVII of the Public Health Service Act (Health Information and Health Promotion) to extend through fiscal year 1982 the authorization of appropriations for grants and contracts under such title, other than assistance provided to establish a national program on sports medicine research (currently authorized through fiscal year 1981). Extends through fiscal year 1981 the authorization of appropriations for grants and contracts to private nonprofit entities working in health information and promotion, preventive health services, and education in the use of health care. Amends the Community Mental Health Centers Act to increase from $3,000,000 to $20,000,000 the level of authorization for fiscal year 1980 for consultation and education services. Extends the current level of authorization through fiscal year 1980 for financial distress grants for community mental health centers.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to permit payment under the medicare program for certain types of foot care.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the medicare program for the trimming of club nails and the cutting and removal of corns, warts, and calluses.

A bill to prohibit the Secretary of Agriculture from prohibiting the use of nitrites as food preservatives as the basis of any carcinogenic effect nitrates may be represented to have until a satisfactory substitute is commercially available.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979

Prohibits the Secretary of Agriculture from taking any action under the Wholesome Meat Act or any other law to prohibit the sale, distribution, or use of nitrites as a food preservative solely on the basis of any carcinogenic effect in humans that nitrites may be represented to have, unless validated evidence is made available to the Secretary which proves beyond a reasonable doubt that nitrites as a food preservative have a significant carcinogenic effect on humans. States that such prohibition shall not apply if the Secretary determines, and publishes in the Federal Register, that a food preservative is commercially available: (1) which may be used in the place of nitrites; (2) which is effective in the protection of public health from botulism and other forms of food poisoning; and (3) the use of which is economically feasible for meat processors and the consumer. Requires the Secretary to conduct or support, by grant or contract research and development activities for a food preservative alternative to nitrites.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act with respect to surgical procedures which can be safely and appropriately performed on an ambulatory basis.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to specify those surgical procedures which can be safely and appropriately performed either in a hospital on an inpatient basis or on an ambulatory basis: (1) in a physician's office; or (2) in an ambulatory surgical center or hospital. Authorizes payment under the Medicare program for those ambulatory procedures not performed in a hospital. Directs the Secretary to establish with respect to each such surgical procedure an amount which is payable either to: (1) the physician for the excess costs in outfitting the physician's office to perform such procedures; or (2) the ambulatory surgical center for its services furnished in connection with such procedures. Stipulates that such amounts will be payable only upon assurances that the performance of such procedures will cost substantially less than the cost of performing such procedures on an inpatient basis in a hospital.

A joint resolution to provide for the designation of a week as "National Lupus Week".

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979

Authorizes and requests the President to designate the week of September 16 through 22, 1979, as "National Lupus Week."

A bill to provide for quality assurance and utilization control in home health care under the medicare, medicaid, and social services programs in accordance with a plan to be developed by a commission specifically established for that purpose.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to establish the Special Commission on Quality Assurance and Utilization Control in Home Health Care. Outlines the duties of the Commission including a study, investigation, and review of the provision of home health care and services to individuals in the United States. Requires that on the basis of such study, investigation, and review, the Commission shall develop a detailed plan for quality assurance and utilization control in home health care. Requires that such plan be presented to the Congress no later than one year after the majority of the members of the Commission have been appointed. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, within 90 days after the submission of the Commission's plan, to issue regulations modifying the standards, conditions, and requirements of titles XVIII, XIX (Medicaid) and XX (Grants to States for Services) relating to home health agencies and home health care as may be necessary to implement such plan and carry out the Commission's accompanying recommendations.

A bill to amend XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the coverage of certain psychologists' services under the supplementary medical insurance benefits program established by part B of such title.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment for certain clinical psychologists' service under the supplemental medical insurance program.

A bill to amend the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to develop standards relating to the rights of patients in certain medical facilities.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Amends the Social Security Act to set forth standards relating to the rights of patients to be met by intermediate care facilities participating in programs under title XVIII (Medicare) and title XIX (Medicaid) of such Act. States that the statement of rights required to be adopted by such facilities shall include guarantees: (1) that the Patient's civil and religious liberties will not be infringed; (2) that the patient has the right to private communications with his physician, attorney, or any other person; and (3) that the patient has the right to have privacy in treatment and in caring for personal needs and confidentiality in the treatment of personnel and medical records.

A bill to provide for demonstration programs for the placement, by hospitals and by certain other qualified agencies, of certain elderly or disabled long-term care patients with foster care families.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, in consultation with the Administration on Aging, to make grants to, and enter into contracts with, certain hospitals, senior citizen centers, State agencies dealing with senior citizens, or other qualified agencies to conduct demonstration programs for the placement with foster care families of specified elderly or disabled persons. Establishes standards which such programs must meet to qualify for grants or contracts. Directs the Secretary to provide, to the extent feasible, for the approval of two grants or contracts in each Department of Health, Education, and Welfare region, one in an urban area, and one in a nonurban area. Limits the amount of a grant or contract to 90 percent of the costs of the program. Sets forth certain recordkeeping requirements for such programs. Requires that such records be available to the Secretary and the Comptroller General for audit and examination. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance to appropriate entities with respect to such programs. Directs the Secretary to evaluate such programs and report to Congress by January 1, 1981. Authorizes appropriations for such grants and contracts of $1,500,000 for each of fiscal years 1980 through 1982.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for services which may be performed by a dentist on the same basis as presently allowed for physicians under the medicare program, and to authorize payment under such program for all inpatient hospital services furnished in connection with dental procedures requiring hospitalization.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Extends the coverage for dental services provided under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to include any services which may be performed by a doctor of dental surgery or of dental medicine and to authorize payment under the Medicare program for all inpatient hospital services furnished in connection with dental procedures requiring hospitalization.

A bill to amend titles II and XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide medicare coverage for disabled individuals under age 65 from the first month of their entitlement to benefits based on disability, in cases where the individuals involved are becoming reentitled to such coverage after a previous coverage period which ended during the preceding 5 years.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Amends titles II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) and XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide hospitalization insurance under part A of title XVIII for individuals under the age of 65 who were previously eligible under part A but whose previous entitlement terminated within the 60 month period preceding the first month in which such individual is under the disability on the basis of which such individual currently claims entitlement to benefits. Eliminates for such individuals the requirement that they must have been entitled to specified benefits for at least 24 consecutive months in order to be eligible for hospitalization insurance benefits.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the supplementary medical insurance program for optometric and medical vision care.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment for optometric and medical vision care under the supplementary medical insurance program.

A bill to provide coverage for hearing aids, eyeglasses, and dentures under the medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment under the Medicare program for eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures, including examinations for the purpose of prescribing or fitting such items.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for reciprocal agreements for services covered outside the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security to authorize the President to enter into agreements establishing reciprocal arrangements between the health insurance program established by such title and the program of any foreign country under which similar services are provided directly to entitled individuals or under which insurance is provided to meet all or part of the expenses of entitled individuals for health services. Requires that any such agreement specify: (1) the nature and extent of payment to be made to or on behalf of individuals entitled to benefits; (2) limitations on the nature and duration of health services and on entitlement of individuals to benefits on a reciprocal basis under an agreement in the United States and in the foreign country; and (3) the methods by which the cost of providing health services on a reciprocal basis shall be shared by the United States and the foreign country. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make rules and regulations and establish procedures which are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer any agreement which has been entered into in accordance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into interim arrangements with any hospital in a foreign country which is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals, or such other hospitals as the Secretary finds meet specified health and safety standards.

Nurse Training Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Nurse Training Amendments of 1979 - Amends title VIII of the Public Health Service Act (Nurse Training) to redefine the purposes of the special projects for which the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare is authorized to make grants to nursing schools and entities. Extends the authorization of appropriations through fiscal year 1980 for such special projects and nurse practitioner programs. Eliminates the current requirement that nurse practitioners reside in health manpower shortage areas to participate in traineeship programs. Repeals the provision relating to loan agreements with nursing schools that prohibits a student who has attended such school before October 1, 1978, from receiving a loan from a fund established under the National Defense Education Act of 1958. Amends title VII of such Act ( Health Research and Teaching Facilities and Training of Professional Health Personnel) to eliminate the current requirement that certain percentage of the funds appropriated for National Health Service Corps scholarships be obligated for specified types of scholarships. Makes full-time students in graduate nursing degree programs eligible for health education assistance loans. Applies the current limitations on individual federally insured loans to such students.

Emergency Medical Services Systems and Health Information and Promotion Extensions of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Emergency Medical Services Systems and Health Information and Promotion Extensions of 1979 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to extend through fiscal year 1982 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) emergency medical services systems; (2) health information and promotion; and (3) immunization programs. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to defer for an additional year (beyond the current three-year limit for such deferment) the date used with respect to service requirements for National Health Service Corps scholarships for students of medicine, osteopathy, or dentistry. Eliminates the grant set-aside for dentistry training. Repeals: (1) the comprehensive health planning program (which was superseded by title XV, the National Health Planning and Development Act); (2) the provision of title XV which gives priority for designation of health service areas which formerly had an area wide Comprehensive Health Planning Agency; and (3) title IX of the Public Health Service Act (Education, Research, Training, and Demonstrations in the Fields of Heart Disease, Cancer, Stroke, Kidney Disease, and Other Related Diseases). Amends title XIII of such Act (Health Maintenance Organizations) to eliminate the provision which allows an entity which provides prepaid health services and has members eligible for service under Medicare, Medicaid, and the Federal employees' health insurance program to be treated as HMOs for purposes of receiving assistance under such title.

Health Planning and Resources Development Amendments of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Health Planning and Resources Development Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Revision of Health Planning Authority - Amends title XV of the Public Health Service Act (National Planning and Development) to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to review annually the national guidelines for health planning promulgated under such Act. Requires the Secretary to determine whether health care delivery systems are meeting the standards and goals set forth in such guidelines and to publish periodically a summary of changes in resources needed to meet such goals. Directs health systems agencies (HSAs) designated under this Act to provide such data as will enable the Secretary to carry out such duties. Adds to the list of subjects deserving priority consideration in the formulation of national health planning goals: (1) the discontinuance of duplicative or unneeded services and facilities; (2) the adoption of policies to contain the rising costs of health care delivery; and (3) the improvement of mental health care, including eliminating inappropriate placement of persons with mental health problems in institutions and emphasizing outpatient mental health services by assuring access to community mental health centers. Revises the procedures for the redesignation of health service area boundaries, including redesignation if the boundaries of the proposed health service area would better meet certain current requirements. Permits the Governor of any State which comprises part of an interstate health service area to request that such area contain only part of a standard metropolitan statistical area, without the concurrence of the Governors of the other States which are part of such area, as required under current law. Eliminates the provision which gives priority for designation of health service areas which formerly had an areawide Comprehensive Health Planning Agency under previous health planning authority. Revises the status of Puerto Rico for the purposes of the health planning program. Extends from one to three years the period of the designation and redesignation of health systems agency (HSA). Revises the procedures for the designation and termination of HSAs, including requiring the Secretary to: (1) give priority to an application for HSA designation which has been recommended by the Governor; (2) permit the appropriate State health planning and development agency (State Agency) to comment on the performance of an HSA before its designation is renewed; (3) consult with the Governor and the Statewide Health Coordinating Council (SHCC) before terminating an HSA's designation. Authorizes the Secretary to terminate a designation agreement with an HSA under certain circumstances and to limit the functions an agency may perform upon a determination that such agency has not fulfilled its obligations. Revises the criteria for the determination by the Secretary of the amount of the grant to be made in each fiscal year to each HSA. Increases the minimum planning grants to HSAs. Allows grants made to designated State Agencies for rate regulation and which are unobligated in the fiscal year for which they were made to be used in the succeeding fiscal year. Permits providers whose principal place of business is in an HSA area to be members of such HSA's governing body. Revises the provider categories with respect to HSA governing body composition to require the representation of hospitals and an accredited school of medicine which may be in the health service area. Increases from one-third to one-half the proportion of the providers of health care who are members of the governing body or executive committee of an HSA who must be direct providers of health care. Makes additional revisions in the composition of an HSA governing body, including that the membership consist of individuals knowledgeable about mental health services and representative of: (1) any qualified health maintenance organizations which may be in the health service area; and (2) the Veterans Administration if the area has at least one VA health care facility. Stipulates that consumers on HSA governing bodies cannot have been "direct" health care providers within the 12 months preceding appointment, instead of "health care providers" as currently provided. Requires that subcommittees of advisory groups of HSA boards have a consumer majority. Directs each HSA to establish and make public a process for the selection of the members of its governing body and any subarea advisory councils which assures: (1) selection in accordance with current composition requirements; and (2) the opportunity for, and encouragement of, broad participation of the residents of the HSA. Requires such process to limit the selection of consumer and provider members by other members of such body or councils. Provides that records and meetings of an HSA except for personnel matters shall be available to the public. Requires each HSA to have an identifiable program of providing assistance to the members of a governing body or other decision-making entity. Provides that at least one member of the HSA staff shall be responsible for assisting the consumer members of the HSA governing body. Authorizes HSA governing bodies to make advances to HSA members for reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of HSA duties. Prohibits any member of a governing body of an HSA or any member of a SHCC from voting on any matter with which such member has any substantial ownership, employment, fiduciary, contractual, creditor, or consultative relationship. Requires HSA staff to have, to the extent feasible, expertise in financial and economic analysis and disease prevention. Adds to the material to be included in the health systems plan (HSP) of an HSA, goals for the delivery of mental health services. Requires that each State Agency determine statewide health needs after consultation with appropriate State authorities. Requires an HSA to conduct a public hearing on the establishment or revision of its Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) and to give interested parties an opportunity to submit their views orally and in writing. Provides for Indian self-determination as related to health planning. Eliminates the requirement that the HSP of an HSA be consistent with the national guidelines issued by the Secretary, but requires the HSA to submit to the State health planning and development agency (State Agency) and the SHCC a detailed statement of reasons for any inconsistencies between its HSP and AIP and such guidelines. Requires plans established under the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 and the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972 to be consistent with the State health plan, and conditions grants made under the Community Mental Health Centers Act on such plan being in effect. Amends the Community Mental Health Centers Act to direct the State mental health authority to: (1) establish minimum standards for community mental health centers; (2) establish a program for such centers which is based on the need for comprehensive mental health services, consistent with the State health plan; (3) make such reports as the Secretary may require; and (4) designate a State advisory council to aid in carrying out such functions and the health planning provisions of the Public Health Service Act. Revises the review functions of the SHCCs. Enumerates additional criteria for HSA, State Agency, and SHCC review, including the accessibility to residents of the proposed services. Specifies the requirements of the certificate of need program established by a State Agency. Requires that a certificate of need application of a health maintenance organization for new institutional services be approved upon certain findings by the State Agency. Exempts from the program the acquisition of major medical equipment which will not be owned by or located in a health care facility in certain circumstances. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations to enable the States to establish certificate of need programs which meet such requirements. Directs the Secretary to make grants to State Agencies to develop programs to reduce excess hospital capacity. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose. Establishes procedures which allow the Governor of a State to review an HSA decision disapproving a proposed use of Federal funds, and to authorize such use after considering any comments by the State Agency. Requires each health systems agency to coordinate its activities with any State entity which reviews rates and budgets of health care facilities. Requires HSAs located within the same standard metropolitan statistical area to coordinate their activities. Directs the Secretary to give each designated HSA within a State an opportunity to comment on the performance of a State health planning and development agency (State Agency) before renewing its designation. Extends from one to three years the period of the designation and redesignation of a State Agency. Revises the procedures for the termination of designated State Agencies. Revises the composition of SHCCs, including increasing from one-third to one-half the proportion of members who must be direct providers of health. Extends through fiscal year 1982 authorizations for: (1) planning grants; (2) State health planning and development; (3) rate regulation; (4) centers for health planning; and (5) area health services development funds. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on the results of reviews conducted with respect to improvements in health care and restraints on increases in health care costs. Title II: Revision of Authority for Health Resources Development - Amends title XVI of the Public Health Service Act (Health Resources Development) to authorize the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make loans through fiscal year 1981 for: (1) modernization of medical facilities; (2) construction of new outpatient medical facilities; (3) construction of new hospitals in areas experiencing rapid population growth or a reduction of hospital beds due to merger or closure of medical facilities; and (4) conversion of existing facilities to outpatient or long-term care facilities. Authorizes the Secretary to guarantee for such period the payment of principal and interest to: (1) non-Federal lenders for their loans to nonprofit private entities for medical facilities projects; and (2) the Federal Financing Bank for loans to nonprofit private entities for such projects. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants for construction or modernization projects designed to: (1) eliminate or prevent imminent safety hazards; or (2) avoid noncompliance with State or voluntary licensure or accreditation standards, with respect to medical facilities owned or operated by public entities. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to public and nonprofit entities for projects for: (1) construction of outpatient medical facilities providing services for medically underserved populations; and (2) conversion of existing medical facilities to provide such services. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for such purpose. Directs the Secretary to assure, by regulation, the effective execution and management of projects carried out under this Act. Title III: Program to Assist and Encourage the Discontinuance of Unneeded Hospital Services - Amends title XVI of the Public Health Service Act (Health Resources Development) to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a new program for providing grants and technical assistance to assist and encourage hospitals to discontinue the provision of unneeded hospital services. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for such program. Directs the Secretary to study the effect of such program on the elimination of unneeded hospital services and to report the results of such study to Congress. Requires the Secretary of Labor to prescribe guidelines for the protection of employees affected by the discontinuance of such services.

A bill to extend for one fiscal year the current authorization of appropriations for programs of assistance under the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 and the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Amends the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 and the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972 to extend through fiscal year 1980 the current level of authorization of appropriations for programs of assistance under such Acts.

National Catastrophic Illness Protection Act of 1975

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

National Catastrophic Illness Protection Act of 1975 - Part A: General Provisions - Establishes as the policy of Congress the need for a National Catastrophic Illness Insurance program to encourage State and private insurers in the development of insurance policies. Part B: Establishment of Program; State Plans - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, under the Social Security Act, to establish and carry out a National Catastrophic Illness Insurance Program. Provides that the program shall involve the creation of State-wide plans providing extended health insurance, and that the Federal Government will reinsure insurers and pools of insurers who offer such insurance. Requires all plans to provide: (1) that extended health insurance be available to all eligible individuals, and at a cost which is reasonable, subject only to deductibles authorized in this Act; (2) that where an insurer does not agree to write a policy of extended insurance, or does so under various limiting conditions, the State authority is notified and provides that the policy would then be placed with a pool or otherwise assigned to insurers by the "all-industry placement facility"; (3) that data be compiled and studied in connection with the operation of the State-wide plan; (4) that certain reports be submitted to the State insurance authority by individual insurers; (5) that any cancellation of a policy provide for reasonable notice to permit coverage under a new policy to be written under the plan; and (6) that public information about the plan be readily distributed. Sets premium rates on the basis of a study of the risks in question and actuarial principals, such rates to be promulgated by the Secretary. Provides that, before payments are made under an extended insurance policy, a deductible must be satisfied through an equal amount of medical expenses paid or incurred by such individual. Provides that the amount of such deductible is determined by relating the extent of medical expenses to adjusted income and is equal to one-half of the amount by which a person's or family's adjusted income exceeds $1,000 but does not exceed $2,000; plus all of the amount by which such adjusted income exceeds $2,000. Provides that statements pledging participation and cooperation with the State insurance authority would be required of insurers seeking reinsurance under the program. Provides that no insurer shall direct any agent or broker not to solicit business through such a plan, nor penalize agents or brokers in any manner for submitting applications under the plan. Directs that the State plan shall be evaluated from time to time in accordance with criteria established by the Secretary. Part C: Reinsurance Coverage - Authorizes the Secretary to reinsure against the losses which might be incurred under extended health insurance policies. Authorizes the Secretary to make agreements with insurers and pools for reinsurance in consideration of payments of reinsurance premiums deposited in the National Catastrophic Illness Insurance Fund in excess of the estimated amount of losses under such policies. Provides a detailed procedure for implementation of the reinsurance program in a State within specified time requirements, taking into account certain State and local factors which might affect such implementation. Provides that the Government may recover in the courts any unpaid premiums lawfully payable to the Government by an insurer under provisions of a five- year statue of limitation. Part D: Government Program with Industry Assistance - Authorizes, after determination that a State-wide program cannot be carried out, or that the objective of the program would be materially assisted by the Federal Government's assumption of the plan, arrangements for operation by the Government to carry out the objectives of the program. Part E: Provisions of General Applicability - Provides procedures for judicial review of disallowances for claims for losses under the reinsurance program whether State-wide or operated by the Federal Government. Authorizes the Government to enter into contracts and other arrangements for claims review, and receiving and disbursing funds for making payments. Provides for the creation of a National Catastrophic Illness Insurance Fund for purposes of receiving premiums for reinsurance. Provides that the Secretary may make periodic payments to insurers and pools in recognition of reduction in premium rates below estimated risks. Authorizes the Secretary of HEW to exercise certain powers vested in the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development under the Housing Act of 1950, in addition to powers provided in this proposal. Provides that the Secretary may, on a reimbursable basis, utilize the services of other Government agencies. Authorizes necessary payment adjustments in connection with the program.

A bill to extend for three fiscal years the programs under section 789 and title XII of the Public Health Service Act relating to emergency medical services and to authorize assistance for poison control and assistance centers.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Amends title VII of the Public Health Service Act (Health Research and Teaching Facilities and Training of Professional Health Personnel) to extend through fiscal year 1982 the current authorization for grants for training in emergency medical services. Amends title XII of such Act (Emergency Medical Services Systems) to extend through fiscal year 1982 the authorization of appropriations (at reduced levels) for assistance for emergency medical services systems. Extends through fiscal year 1982 the current authorization for grants for burn injury programs. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to provide financial assistance to public and nonprofit entities to establish and maintain poison control information and treatment centers. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for such purpose.

A bill to provide coverage under the medicare program for prescription drugs, eye and teeth care, hearing aids, annual physical exams, immunizations, foot care, and examinations for detecting hypertension.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment under the Medicare program for: (1) prescription drugs and biologicals; (2) eyeglasses; (3) hearing aids; (4) dentures; (5) examinations for the purpose of prescribing or fitting eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures; (6) services in connection with the care, filling, removal or replacement of teeth; (7) an annual physical exam; (8) immunizations; (9) certain types of foot care, including the treatment of flat feet, the removal of corns, warts or calluses, the trimming of nails, and other routine hygienic care; and (10) examinations for detecting hypertension.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under part B of Medicare for routine Papanicolaou test for the diagnosis of uterine cancer.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to extend coverage to include expenses incurred in providing a Papanicolaou test for the diagnosis of uterine cancer, if the individual receiving the test has not had such a test on a routine basis during the preceding six months.

A bill to extend for three fiscal years the expiring health information programs under title XVII of the Public Health Service Act, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Amends title XVII of the Public Health Service Act (Health Information and Health Promotion) to extend through fiscal year 1982 the authorization of appropriations for grants and contracts under this title, other than assistance provided by the Office of Health Information, Health Promotion and Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. Amends the Community Mental Health Centers Act to increase from $3,000,000 to $20,000,000 the level of authorization for fiscal year 1980 for consultation and education services. Extends the current level of authorization through fiscal year 1980 for financial distress grants for community mental health centers.

National Infant Screening Act of 1979

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

National Infant Screening Act of 1979 - Amends title XI of the Public Health Service Act (Genetic Diseases, Hemophilia Programs, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) to authorize the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to provide financial assistance to public and nonprofit entities to acquire the automated equipment, supplies, and personnel required to conduct multiple screening of blood specimens routinely collected from newborn infants for metabolic disorders.

A resolution expressing the sense of the House that optometric services be included in medical assistance programs.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that any legislation providing for the modification or federalization of medical assistance programs include optometric services and that the States be urged to seek to include or continue optometric services.

A bill to amend the Health Programs Extension Act of 1973 to provide for unbiased consideration of applicants to federally supported health professional schools.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Amends the Health Programs Extension Act of 1973 to prohibit any entity which receives financial assistance under the Public Health Service Act, the Community Mental Health Centers Act, or the Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act from discriminating against any applicant for training or study because of such applicant's reluctance or unwillingness to counsel, assist, or in any way participate in the performance of abortions or sterilizations contrary to his or her religious beliefs or moral convictions.

Health Service Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Health Service Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to create a United States Health Service to provide without charge to all residents comprehensive health care services delivered by salaried health workers and emphasizing the promotion and maintenance of health as well as the treatment of illness. Title I: Establishment and Operation of the United States Health Service - Establishes as an independent agency of the executive branch the United States Health Service. Directs the President to appoint a 21-member Interim National Health Board of the Service. Directs the Board to establish, within six months of such appointment, health care delivery regions throughout the United States. Requires each region to: (1) be appropriate for the effective planning and delivery of health care and supplemental services for its residents; (2) have a population between 500,000 and 3,000,000 (with specified exceptions); and (3) take into account economic or geographic barriers and differences in needs between nonmetropolitan and metropolitan areas. Directs the Board to appoint a nine- member interim regional board for each region. Limits to three the members of such board who are or have been health workers or indirect providers. Directs each board to establish, within six months of such appointment, health care delivery districts and health care delivery communities throughout its region. Specifies requirements for such districts and communities. Sets forth the procedures for: (1) the election of health care delivery community boards, including that such boards consist of user members and health worker members, as defined by this Act; (2) the appointment of district health boards by the community boards; (3) the appointment of regional health boards by the district boards; (4) the appointment of the National Health Board; and (5) the subsequent certification of health boards. Sets forth the procedures for the modification of the boundaries of health care delivery areas by the National Health Board. Specifies requirements with respect to the membership, meetings, and records of the health boards established by this Act. Directs the National Health Board to establish guidelines and standards to facilitate the implementation of the objectives of this Act. Title II: Delivery of Health Care and Supplemental Services - Enumerates the basic health rights which the Service shall ensure in the delivery of health care services to users, including: (1) the right to receive high quality health care and supplemental services without charge and without discrimination; (2) the right to choose the health workers from whom, and the health facilities in which, health care services are received; (3) the right of access to all health information and the right to have such information translated into the individual's primary language; (4) the right to an explanation of the benefits and risks involved in the delivery of health services; (5) the right to have all documents treated confidentially; (6) the right, in the event of terminal illness, to die with a maximum degree of dignity; and (7) the right to legal assistance to enforce these rights. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act to entitle each employee of an employer subject to such Act to compensation for one hour at regular pay for each 35 hours of employment for the purpose of receiving necessary health care services. Provides that all individuals while within the United States and its territories are eligible to receive health care and supplemental services under this Act. Specifies the services which the Health Service shall provide, including: (1) health education programs; (2) preventive services; (3) emergency medical services; (4) comprehensive outpatient and inpatient services; (5) occupational and mental health services; (6) dental care, long-term care, and home health services; (7) specialized therapies; and (8) the provision of drugs, therapeutic devices, and other medical equipment and supplies. Enumerates the supplemental services to be provided by the Service, including: (1) ambulance and other transportation services; (2) child care services; (3) home health services; and (4) counseling and social service assistance. Requires each community board to establish community health care facilities to provide (to the greatest extent feasible through a single comprehensive health center) specified primary and specialized health care services. Requires each district board to establish, within its district, a general hospital for the delivery of general health care services and those specialized services which may be provided most effectively at the district level. Requires each regional board to establish a regional medical facility for the delivery of highly specialized health care services to individuals residing in the district. Enumerates additional duties for each regional, district, and community health board, including: (1) education on personal health matters; (2) referral services; (3) environmental monitoring services; (4) research and data-gathering; and (5) follow-up services. Sets forth requirements for the operation and inspection of health care facilities. Prohibits any individual employed by a health board from engaging in the private delivery of health care services. Enumerates services relating to reproduction and childbearing which regional, district, and community health boards shall provide. Title III: Health Labor Force - Declares that the Health Service shall be the sole judge of the qualifications of its employees, notwithstanding any State or local law to the contrary. Directs the National Health Board to establish guidelines for the classification, certification, and employment of health workers by job category. Requires each regional board to establish a health team school to provide programs of initial and continuing basic and specialized education in health care delivery for health workers in all job categories. Prohibits any individual from enrolling in any area health board school or specialized program unless the individual agrees to perform health care services as an employee of the service for a specified period of time in the job category for which training is being provided. Applies specified Federal standards to labor-management relations within the service including provisions relating to: (1) employment and promotion in the service; (2) adverse actions against employees; (3) compensation for work-related injuries; and (4) collective-bargaining procedures and agreements. Sets forth procedures with respect to the defense of malpractice and negligence suits brought against employees of the Service. Title IV: Other Functions of Health Boards - Requires each regional, district, and community health board to establish a program of health advocacy to ensure the full realization of patients' rights provided for by this Act. Directs the National Board to establish a health rights legal service program to ensure that users and health workers receive free, high quality legal service for legal problems related to health rights and health care services. Establishes a grievance procedure before a regional board or the National Board for any user, health worker, or any user association having a demonstrated interest in health care. Directs the National Board to oversee occupational safety and health programs at the regional level and to participate in the establishment and administration of occupational safety and health standards under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. Directs each community board to provide for the organization and operation of a community occupational safety and health action council (OSHAC). Directs each regional board to establish an occupational health and safety program. Requires the employer in each workplace having 25 or more employees to establish and maintain a health facility in or near the workplace to provide occupational and emergency health care service for employees. Gives employees in such workplaces the right to establish workplace occupational safety and health committees to monitor safety and health conditions. Directs the Health Service to conduct a program of research concerning health and health care delivery which conforms to specified principles. Transfers the National Institutes of Health established under the Public Health Service Act to the National Health Board, and directs the National Board to establish National Institutes of: (1) Epidemiology; (2) Evaluative Clinical Research; (3) Health Care Services; (4) Pharmacy and Medical Supply; and (5) Sociology of Health and Health Care. Requires each regional, district, and community health board to collect and evaluate data on health care delivery. Directs the National Board to formulate a one-year and five-year national health plan budget, taking into account such data and evaluations. Directs the National Health Board to publish and disseminate to regional, district, and community boards a National Pharmacy and Medical Supply Formulary which shall contain a listing of drugs, therapeutic devices and other medical equipment and quality standards and other information with respect to such items. Directs the National Board to prepare and disseminate to regional, district, and community boards a comprehensive dictionary of health care terms for use by users. Title V: Financing of the Service - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose an additional income tax on every individual to finance the health service program established by this Act. Imposes a tax on every employer equal to 4.5 percent of wages paid. Excludes from gross income amounts paid by employers on behalf of their employees to accident and health plans which provide insurance for medical expenses not covered by this Act. Repeals provisions which allow income tax deductions for certain health care expenses and charitable contributions to medical and hospital facilities. Repeals existing tax rate schedules for hospital insurance under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act. Creates in the Treasury the Health Service Trust Fund. Transfers to the Fund all the assets and liabilities of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund. Directs each regional, district, and community board to submit annually to the appropriate board a plan and budget. Directs the National Board to prepare a national health budget for each fiscal year, taking into consideration the area board budgets. Directs the Board to incorporate into the budget a fund for special operating expenses associated with specified health care needs. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Repeals and transfers to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare authority under specified laws relating to health care services provided by this Act.

Federal Privacy of Medical Records Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Federal Privacy of Medical Records Act - Title I: Privacy of Medical Records - Requires medical care facilities to permit individuals to inspect and have copies of their medical records. Provides for the correction of records at the individual's request. Directs medical care facilities to provide individual's with notice of record keeping practices, describing permissible disclosures, the individual's rights, and procedures. Prohibits disclosure of individual medical records: (1) without such individual's authorization; (2) to people without proper identification; and (3) beyond the extent necessary. Permits disclosure of medical records without the individual's authorization in specified circumstances, including employee use, health research, audits and evaluations, statutory requirements, law enforcement functions, and judicial and administrative proceedings. Sets forth limits on disclosures to governmental authorities. Permits an individual to challenge a summons or subpoena of such individual's medical records by a governmental authority. Requires Federal authorities to report annually to Congress concerning its requests for medical records. Requires medical care facilities participating in the Medicare and Medicaid programs to comply with the disclosure provisions. Provides criminal and civil penalties for violations of the disclosure provisions. Title II: Amendment to Title 5, United States Code - Exempts medical records maintained by medical care facilities from the disclosure provisions generally applicable to government agencies. Title III: Effective Date and Regulations - Stipulates the effective date of this Act. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act by a specified date.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for services which may be performed by a dentist on the same basis as presently allowed for physicians under the medicare program, and to authorize payment under such program for all inpatient hospital services furnished in connection with dental procedures requiring hospitalization.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Extends the coverage for dental services provided under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to include any services which may be performed by a doctor of dental surgery or of dental medicine and to authorize payment under the Medicare program for all inpatient hospital services furnished in connection with dental procedures requiring hospitalization.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the coverage of certain psychologists' services under the supplementary medical insurance benefits program established by part B of such title.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide payment for certain clinical psychologists' services under the supplemental medical insurance program.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act for the purpose of including community mental health centers among the entities which may be qualified providers of service for medicare purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to include outpatient services by a community mental health center for up to 60 visits per year among the benefits provided under such title. Sets forth the conditions and limitations on payments for such services, including criteria for utilization review plans of community mental health centers and transfer agreements between hospitals and community mental health centers.

Older Americans Long-Term Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Older Americans Long-Term Care Act - Title I: Long-Term Care for the Elderly and the Disabled - Establishes a program of long-term comprehensive services for the elderly financed by the Federal Government and the States. Establishes within the Department of the Treasury a Federal Long-Term Care Trust Fund for such program. Requires a State to establish a State Long-Term Care Agency in order to receive funds under this Act. Requires such State agency to create within the State a system of Community Long-Term Care Centers. Title II: Miscellaneous Provisions - Sets forth the relationship between the program established by this Act and certain programs under the Social Security Act.

Health Care Expenditures Regulation Review Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Health Care Expenditures Regulation Review Act - Requires any officer or agency in the executive branch of the Federal Government to submit all proposed health care regulations to each House of Congress. Sets forth the procedure by which a proposed health care regulation shall become effective. Directs the head of any Federal department or agency to give 60 days notice to the relevant committees of the House of Representatives and Senate, prior to initial publication of any regulation which relates to: (1) costs or expenditures of, or reimbursements to, individuals or providers of health care; or (2) the fixing of any rate or charge.

A bill to require physician visits to patients in skilled nursing facilities at least once every thirty days.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide that nursing homes participating in the Medicare program must furnish a physician who visits patients not less than once every 30 days and that a physician be available to furnish necessary medical care in case of emergency.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to authorize the provision of intermediate care services under medicare, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize the provision of intermediate care services to persons requiring institutional care, but not the degree of care provided by a hospital or skilled nursing facility.

A bill to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to request the National Academy of Science to conduct a study concerning standardizing certain tests for determining potential carcinogenicity, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1979

Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to request the National Academy of Science to conduct a study regarding the desirability of developing a Federal policy for the determination of the potential carcinogenicity in man of chemicals tested primarily in nonhuman test systems through the standardization of certain tests.