Showing posts with label Medicare. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Medicare. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Affordable Care Act, Libraries, Medicare, Cannabis

Affordable Care Act



AFT President Randi Weingarten on the Supreme Court’s Delay in Ruling on the Affordable Care Act
Source: American Federation of Teachers
January 21, 2020
The Republican Party has made its hatred of the ACA central to its political dogma, and has done everything to undermine and end it. Central to this has been the GOP’s legal strategy to challenge the law’s constitutionality. Now, when it’s clear there are consequences to this strategy—that millions of American people, including those with pre-existing conditions, will be denied healthcare—the GOP is trying to have it both ways. End the law, but do it after 2020, hoping the electorate won’t notice.

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Supreme Court will not expedite review of ACA case
Source: American Hospital Association
January 21, 2020
Twenty states and the District of Columbia had petitioned the Supreme Court to review the decision this term. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals last month ruled the ACA's individual mandate unconstitutional and sent the case back to the district court in Texas for the judge to take a "careful, granular approach" to determining which of the law's provisions could survive without the mandate.

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Libraries



OIF responds to Missouri legislation that proposes policies and procedures that threaten access to information
Source: American Library Association
January 16, 2020
Missouri House Bill 2044, introduced on January 8, 2020, proposes the creation of five-member “parental library review boards” to identify “age-inappropriate” public library materials and restrict access to those materials. The bill proposes criminal prosecution for librarians who make those materials available to minors and would deny funding to libraries that do not employ parental library review boards to restrict access to their materials.

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Medicare



Navigating Home Modifications Billing for Medicare-Covered Clients
Source: American Occupational Therapy Association
January 17, 2020
Medicare-covered clients are entitled, under law, to medically necessary services. Occupational therapy practitioners do NOT have the right, under current statutes, to “opt out” of Medicare. Any occupational therapy practitioner, even those who are not Medicare providers, must directly bill Medicare for any medically necessary skilled therapy services provided to Medicare-covered clients. Whether or not to bill Medicare for home modification OT services must be based on the occupational therapy practitioner’s clinical determination of whether the services are medically necessary.

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Cannabis



Congress Should Make Cannabis Research Less Cumbersome, APA Says in Written Testimony
Source: American Psychological Association
January 15, 2020
Congress should streamline the cumbersome, redundant and unnecessary regulations surrounding research on cannabis, making it easier for psychologists to continue studying its beneficial uses and developing effective treatments for its abuse, according to the American Psychological Association.

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Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Medicare

Today's News about Medicare






Shelby Praises CMS Proposal to Adjust Medicare Wage Index
Source: Senator, Richard C.Shelby (R-AL)
April 24, 2019
U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today praised the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement regarding the Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) proposed rule that provides relief from the increasing disproportion of reimbursement to hospitals created by the Medicare wage index. While CMS uses wage index data based on regional labor costs to determine Medicare reimbursement levels for hospitals in a particular area, many hospitals – particularly in Alabama – have been negatively affected as a result of flawed data.

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Saturday, April 13, 2019

NASA, Nursing, Infrastructure, Telephone, Broadband, Small Business, Muslim, Medicare, Right to Work, Obamacare, Guns

Today's News From People, Groups and Organizations for April 13, 2019



The Ponder is in the process of adding about 50 new sources to the press release list. This will serve to bring more and better information as to what is going on in Washington and around the country. We hope you enjoy our news! (And, don't forget to show your support by visiting our advertisers!)

Also, The Ponder is owned and operated by a Christian Conservative woman. However, the Ponder believes that you have to know what's on the other side in order to form a more educated opinion. So, here you are going to find Conservative AND Liberal viewpoints. If the subject you are interested in doesn't seem to have the support of your group, perhaps you should encourage them to post a press release. We can't post it if it is not available.

The posts here do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the owner: Shonda Ponder. If The Ponder comments on any post and forms an opinion or thought on the subject, which isn't very often (as we want our readers to form their own opinions and thoughts) you will find it in red.

Finally, remember that this is a one-person operation. With over 1500 press contacts currently at our disposal, there is only so many one person can post in a day. We cannot afford to hire help right now.

Our job is to get the information out. It's up to YOU who you support. We only ask that you support our effort to inform you by visiting our advertisers for your shopping needs!

Below is the latest news from a lot of our sources!

NASA Invites You to “Picture Earth” for Earth Day
by: NASA
April 12, 2019
Our magnificent planet is always ready for its close-up. On Earth Day, April 22, NASA wants to see your take.

NASA invites you to celebrate the planet we call home with our #PictureEarth social media event. Post a close-up photo on social media of your favorite natural features, such as crashing waves, ancient trees, blooming flowers, or stunning sunsets. Use the hashtag #PictureEarth and upload the photo on April 22. Be sure to include the location where the photo was taken in the text of your social media post.

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National League for Nursing to Offer Extra Support to English Learners Sitting for NLN Pre-Admission Exam (PAX)
by: National League for Nursing
April 12, 2019
The National League for Nursing has taken a key step in making its Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) more accessible to students for whom English is not their native language. Students living in the United States and learning English while preparing to apply to nursing education programs may now qualify for special support through the testing services offering the NLN-PAX.

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Washington Leaders Must Heed the Signs—Infrastructure Investment is Overdue
by: National Governor’s Association
April 11, 2019
In recent weeks, Americans have watched in horror and sympathy as communities across the upper Midwest were inundated by flooding, which destroyed homes, businesses and neighborhoods. A snowy winter, saturated soil and intense rains from a “bomb cyclone” combined to create true natural disaster. But the failures of dikes, dams and sluices point to a slow-motion political disaster as well.

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NCLC Attorney Margot Saunders to Testify at U.S. Senate Hearing on Stopping Illegal Robocalls on April 11
by: National Consumer Law Center
April 11, 2019
On Thursday, April 11 at 10:00 am ET, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will convene a hearing on Illegal Robocalls: Calling All to Stop the Scourge. “Robocalls have increased 370% percent in less than four years, with over five billion robocalls made just in March 2019,” said National Consumer Law Center Senior Counsel Margot Saunders, who will testify at the hearing. “The surge in consumer complaints reinforces the need for the Federal Communications Commission to strengthen the federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act’s application to autodialed calls and the right of consumers to withhold their consent to receive these and other robocalls.”

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I don't know about you, but I am getting tired of calls about extended warranties, knee braces and health insurance. Especially Obamacare. You would think that after being told 10 times, pushing the button 10 times and hung up on more times than I count, they would quit calling. It's annoying. I don't buy anything from anyone who annoys me. And, I don't give my information over the phone unless I know beyond a shadow of a doubt who I am talking to and what the information is being used for.

Senator Murray introduces Digital Equity Act of 2019
by: National Digital Inclusion Alliance
April 11, 2019
In a major development for community digital inclusion advocates, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) today introduced the “Digital Equity Act”, which would authorize more than $1 billion in Federal grant funding over the next five years to support digital inclusion programs throughout U.S. states and territories.

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NFIB Statement on Introduction of Senate Bill to Make Small Business Tax Relief Permanent
by: National Federation of Independent Business
April 11, 2019
“Small and independent businesses were clear about what they would do if given tax relief and they have put their words into action by creating jobs, increasing compensation, and expanding. Yet, unlike those for large corporations, the tax relief provisions for small businesses, primarily the Small Business Deduction, are set to expire. We applaud Senator Daines’ introduction of the Main Street Tax Certainty Act, legislation that would help provide certainty for America’s small businesses. This legislation is crucial for small businesses, and we urge the Senate to bring it to the floor for a vote.”

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NAIC Prioritizes Long-Term Care Insurance
by: National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
April 10, 2019
The membership of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) voted unanimously to create a task force focused on long-term care insurance market stability. The group will report to the NAIC Executive (EX) Committee. The vote took place during a joint meeting of the Executive Committee and Plenary on Tuesday during the Spring 2019 National Meeting in Orlando.

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No Ban Act Introduced in Congress to Repeal the Discriminatory Muslim Ban
by: National Immigration Law Center
April 10, 2019
Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) and Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) announced today the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants Act, or the “No Ban Act,” challenging the Trump administration’s Muslim ban. The ban, which has been in effect in one form or another since January 2017, has separated too many families and continues to have a devastating impact on American Muslim communities.

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Congress Should Protect Muslims and Others, Support Anti-Ban Legislation
by: National Council of Jewish Women, Inc.
April 10, 2019
“One of President Trump’s first acts when he became president was to fulfill a discriminatory campaign pledge and ban entry into the US by foreign nationals from several Muslim majority countries. After Trump’s ban was rewritten twice, the US Supreme Court upheld the final language as within the prerogative of the president to set policy regarding entry into the US. This egregious decision can be reversed by Congress. The National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants Act (NO BAN Act) introduced by Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) and Representative Judy Chu (D-CA) would end the harmful Muslim Ban and put in place vital protections against future discrimination.

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Largest U.S. Nurses’ Union Praises Sen. Sanders’ for His Medicare for All Bill
by: National Nurses United
April 10, 2019
“Senator Sanders realizes what’s at stake with America’s health care system and we are proud to support his Medicare for All legislation. In particular, we are pleased by the inclusion of long term care options in this version of the bill,” said NNU President Deborah Burger, RN. “As the largest union of registered nurses in the country, we stand with Senator Sanders and his co-sponsors as they promote legislation that will change and save our patients’ lives. Medicare for All is a real, concrete solution to the problems of our current broken system, not just a Band-Aid.”

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Rhode Island Bus Driver Asks NLRB to Overturn Policy Blocking Vote to Remove Teamsters Union
by: National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation
April 10, 2019
With free legal aid from National Right to Work Foundation staff attorneys, a Rhode Island bus driver has petitioned the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to allow a vote to decertify his local union. The filing argues the Labor Board’s “merger doctrine” being applied to block the vote is contrary to the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

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NASW will continue to monitor efforts to sabotage Affordable Care Act
by: National Association of Social Workers
April 8, 2019
The Trump administration recently announced that it had ordered the Department of Justice (DOJ) to file with the Fifth Circuit Court Federal Appeals Court that it affirms a December 2018 ruling by a federal judge in Texas in Texas v. United States that invalidated the remaining portions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Because 16 states have challenged the decision, the judge’s ruling will not have any immediate effect. However, this latest action is an ominous sign the administration is determined to dismantle ACA, thereby eliminating essential health services to millions of low-income and indigent people.

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Presidential Candidates Who "Can't Keep Their Hands Off" Your Guns
by: National Association for Gun Rights
April 8, 2019
As the 2020 Presidential election draws near, the pool of aspiring anti-gun Democratic Candidates continues to grow.

While the election of any of the current crop of Democrat hopefuls would pose a clear and present danger to the Second Amendment, two potential candidates have an exceptionally troubling history of attacking our right to keep and bear arms.

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Monday, April 1, 2019

Reps. Delgado, Larson and Higgins Announce House Companion to Medicare-X Bill

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by: Antonio Delgado (D-NY, 19th)

Washington, D.C. - April 1, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Antonio Delgado (NY-19) led the reintroduction of the Medicare-X Choice Act, legislation to create a public option health plan available for purchase on the individual and small business exchanges. Delgado was joined by Representatives John Larson (CT-1) and Brian Higgins (NY-26). The bill would combine Medicare physician networks and reimbursement rates with Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage standards to create a new, public health insurance option available to all Americans.

“It’s unacceptable that despite being the wealthiest country in the world, the United States is the only developed country without universal healthcare,” Delgado said. “This has been a top priority for me in Congress, and I’m proud to lead my colleagues in introducing a bill to finally get us to universal coverage. Whether it be at town halls or meetings with constituents, the folks I talk to back home want access to more coverage options at lower costs. The Medicare-X Choice Act would deliver by allowing those who are happy with their employer-provided insurance to keep it, while offering another, more affordable coverage option to those who need it. Adding a public option creates competition and will drive down premiums and deductibles.”

“By building on the successful framework of the Medicare system, Medicare X creates an additional affordable healthcare option for the American people. This is a solution that is bold and achievable and will ensure that every American has access to high-quality, affordable health care,” said Congressman Larson.

Congressman Higgins said, “This bill provides people under 65 a public option already proven to be successful – Medicare. By doing so, it provides greater choice and competition, building on the protections provided in the Affordable Care Act, with an efficient healthcare delivery alternative that lowers the cost curve for consumers.”

The Medicare-X Choice Act uses the existing health care system, and gradually reinforces it, by providing more options for the public of all ages. Medicare-X would be offered through individual and family coverage plans and the Medicare provider network would be expanded to include pediatricians, children’s hospitals and others. The Act will ensure Essential Health Benefits like maternity, newborn care, and pediatric services are covered. The bill also allows for prescription drug negotiation through Medicare Part D.

Under the bill, premiums are put into a new, separate trust fund, holding the Medicare trust fund for individuals ages 65 and over harmless. In addition, the bill would expand access to premium tax credits to those beyond the 400% of the federal poverty line, the current threshold for premium assistance under the ACA.

Beginning in 2021, the Medicare-X plan will be available in rural areas of the country where there is only one or no health insurance providers on the exchange. The plan will also be available in counties where there is a shortage of health plan options, which have driven up costs and rendered prices simply unaffordable for the American below the age of 65. By 2024, the public option would be available on the individual market and in 2025, the plan would be an option on the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) exchange.

Thursday, November 29, 2018

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION INCLUDES COLLINS’ PHAIR PRICING ACT IN NEW DRUG PRICING RULE


Washington, D.C. - November 29, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- This week the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released a proposed rule to lower prescription drug costs and increase transparency surrounding Medicare Parts C and D. Included in the proposal is the bulk of the Phair Pricing Act, which Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) introduced in May 2018 to lower drug costs to Medicare patients at the point of sale.

“Too often, prescription drug middlemen use abusive reimbursement schemes to inflate patient prices and unfairly cripple community health care providers. I’ve seen how much this ultimately leaves communities with higher costs and less access to quality care. President Trump’s administration is taking an incredibly tangible step to ensure that patients at the counter feel the savings that middlemen claim to negotiate on their behalves but have often kept in their own coffers,” said Collins.

Monday, October 15, 2018

Rep. Blum Cosponsors Bill to Protect Social Security and Medicare


Washington, D.C. - October 15, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Rod Blum (R-IA, 1st) recently cosponsored H.Res.1026 to express the sense of the House that Medicare and Social Security must be protected for current enrollees and preserved for future generations.

Rep. Blum commented, "Growing up, my mother was dependent on Social Security survivor benefits to put food on the table after my father passed— I personally understand the importance and necessity of these benefits. Iowans have worked hard and paid into the Social Security system with the expectation that these funds will be available upon retirement. Both parties in Congress must work together to enact responsible long-term reforms that will protect both current and future retirees- and this bill confirms my commitment to do so."

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Medicare, Dreamers, Flu Season, FMLA

Brady, Roskam on Policies Included in Continuing Resolution to Improve Medicare, Extend Medicare Policies
House Committee on Ways and Means
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) and Health Subcommittee Chairman Peter Roskam (R-IL) issued the following statements after House Republicans introduced a continuing resolution that includes reforms to improve the Medicare program and extend specific Medicare policies that could cause people to lose access to care unless Congress acts:
Read it...

Sen. McCain, Coons Introduce Bipartisan Dreamer Bill
Human Rights First
Human Rights First has urged senators to support the Uniting and Securing America (USA) Act, introduced by Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Chris Coons (D-DE), which would provide legal protection for Dreamers and increase border security without erecting further barriers to the U.S. asylum and refugee systems.
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On Anniversary of FMLA, A Chance to Improve Paid Leave
Independent Women's Forum
Monday, February 4, is the 25th anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), requiring employers to give some workers 12 weeks of paid time off—but not requiring any paid leave.
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ICYMI: KAPTUR, BROWN SEND BIPARTISAN LETTER TO FDA REGARDING SHORTAGE OF IV SALINE AT HEIGHT OF DEADLY FLU SEASON
Marcy Kaptur (D-OH, 9th)
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) and Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) wrote to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Scott Gottlieb regarding the current shortage of IV saline and other critical medical products. The shortage resulted from the devastation Hurricane Maria wrought on Puerto Rico’s many major manufacturing facilities. Months after the storm, many of these factories still lack full and consistent access to power. At the height of the deadliest flu season in recent history, the shortage threatens to further endanger public health.
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Sunday, November 5, 2017

BILIRAKIS FIGHTS TO PRESERVE MEDICARE

Source: Gus Bilirakis (R-FL, 12th)

Washington, D.C. - November 4, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The House passed the Protecting Seniors’ Access to Medicare Act of 2017, which Congressman Bilirakis enthusiastically supported. While many scare tactics have been employed in a misinformation campaign, the House remains committed to preserving this important program, with no changes for current participants or those who are set to enroll in the near future. This bill specifically eliminates the Independent Payment and Advisory Board (IPAB) which is an un-elected Board that was created as part of Obamacare to cut Medicare payments to providers (hospitals & doctors). To date, the IPAB Board has never been called upon to make such cuts, therefore the bill is revenue neutral.

“Countless independent studies have shown that reform is needed in order to ensure Medicare’s long-term sustainability. I support a bi-partisan study commission which will make recommendations about how to best achieve that goal while protecting seniors and vulnerable populations. Despite political rhetoric, all members of Congress (Republican and Democrat) understand the importance of Medicare and will work to ensure that it remains solvent for years to come. However, any future changes that might be needed in the Medicare program should be carefully considered by Congress, not an IPAB Board, to ensure seniors are not adversely impacted, said Congressman Bilirakis.

Congressman Bilirakis has a long history of championing efforts to help preserve Medicare. He sponsored a bill to increase civil and criminal penalties for Medicare fraud. Many of these penalties have not been updated in over 20 years. Cracking down on fraud and abuse will help ensure solvency of the program for future generations. The Congressman also sponsored the Drug Management Program for At-Risk Beneficiaries which was signed into law earlier this year. This provision also cracked down on fraud and abuse within Medicare. Additionally, he has introduced legislation to tackle the issue of high drug prices. Congressman Bilirakis worked closely on a provision passed as part of the FDA Reauthorization Act mirroring his drug cost legislation, which would accelerate the generic drug approval process and encourage generic drug makers to enter markets where there is no competition. Too often, bad actors in the marketplace take advantage of monopolies, skyrocketing the price of lifesaving medication simply because there is little to no competition. While the high costs of drugs impact all Americans and the healthcare system as a whole, it also burdens Medicare. Congressman Bilirakis will continue to work on the sustainability of the Medicare program.

See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site

Saturday, October 28, 2017

HOUSE INTRODUCTION OF MEDICARE-X

Source: Rick Larsen (D-WA, 2nd)

Cupshe

Washington, D.C. - October 28, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressmembers John Larson (CT-1) Brian Higgins (NY-26), Joe Courtney (CT-2), Bobby Scott (VA-3), Beto O’Rourke (TX-16) and Jared Polis (CO-2) announce introduction of the House companion to the Senate Medicare-X Choice Act of 2017. The Medicare-X Choice Act (H.R. 4094) builds upon the successful framework of the Medicare program by providing a public plan as an option on the individual and small business health exchanges.

Congressman Larson said, “Medicare X is a practical approach that uses the successful framework of the Medicare system to provide Americans with an additional, affordable coverage option. In addition, by encouraging the use of innovative models and approaches for individuals with chronic conditions, this bill will help drive down costs and improve quality within our health care system. It’s a sensible step towards a healthier future.”

Rep. Higgins said, “For over 50 years Medicare has been an efficient and trusted healthcare option for older Americans. Building on a system that works to make it available to more people who want it, is simply common sense. Medicare-X adds choice and competition to the existing marketplace.”

“It is time that we consider ways to build upon the ACA by improving competition in the health care exchanges,” said Rep. Courtney. “By harnessing the value of Medicare, we can infuse high quality, affordable insurance plans into state’s marketplaces, lowering costs and offering new options to consumers.”

Congressman Scott said, “At a time when Congress and the administration should be working to improve our current health system, the administration’s actions have undermined the Affordable Care Act and created uncertainty and confusion for American families. I am proud to join my colleagues in putting forth a plan to build on the ACA’s progress, and ensure that all Americans have greater access and more options for affordable health coverage.”

“We need a public option such as Medicare offered through the ACA to increase coverage and lower costs so every American can afford to see a doctor when they need one,” said Representative O’Rourke. “There are many paths to reach universal coverage, and our Medicare-X legislation is a step in the right direction.”

“While President Trump sabotages the Affordable Care Act, creating instability in the market, I am proud to help introduce Medicare-X in the House of Representatives, alongside Rep. Higgins. Medicare X will improve upon the Affordable Care Act by giving people more choices, and bringing down costs. It builds on the successes of Medicare by allowing individuals and small businesses to choose among existing private insurance plans and a public one. In my home district, this is especially important, where the options for rural and mountain counties are limited,” said Polis.

The Medicare-X Choice Act uses the existing health care system, and gradually reinforces it, by providing more options for the public of all ages. Medicare-X would be offered through individual and family coverage plans and the Medicare provider network would be expanded to include pediatricians, children’s hospitals and others. The Act will ensure Essential Health Benefits like maternity, newborn care, and pediatric services are covered. The bill also allows for prescription drug negotiation through Medicare Part D.

Under the bill, premiums are put into a new, separate trust fund, holding the Medicare trust fund for individuals ages 65 and over harmless.

Beginning in 2020, the Medicare-X plan will be available in rural areas of the country where there is only one or no health insurance providers on the exchange. The plan will also be available in counties where there is a shortage of health plan options, which have driven up costs and rendered prices simply unaffordable for the American below the age of 65. By 2023, the public option would be available on the individual market and in 2024, the plan would be an option on the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) exchange.

The Senate version of the Medicare-X Choice Act was introduced by Senator Michael Bennet (CO) and Senator Tim Kaine (VA). Additional Senate sponsors include Senators Harris, Cortez Masto, Leahy, Cardin and Feinstein.

Sunday, October 1, 2017

KUSTOFF LEADS 228 BIPARTISAN MEMBERS OF CONGRESS IN OPPOSING PROPOSED CHANGES TO 340B

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- On Wednesday, September 27, 2017, U.S. Representatives David Kustoff (R-TN), Mike Thompson (D-CA) and David P. McKinley (R-W. VA) led 228 bipartisan members of Congress in sending a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma urging the administration to withdraw its harmful proposal to levy cuts on certain hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program (340B program).

“For 25 years, the 340B program has expanded vital health services to our rural and low-income communities in West Tennessee,” said Kustoff. “CMS’s proposed rule change would slash funding and strip safety net hospitals of the ability to serve those who need medical care the most. We must responsibly address rising prescription drug costs without putting the most vulnerable patients at risk. I hope this overwhelming, bipartisan opposition to the 340B rule change demonstrates the significance of supporting rural and safety net hospitals.”

On July 13, 2017, CMS released the outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) proposed rule for 2018. The rule would dramatically cut the reimbursement rate for Medicare Part B drugs purchased by certain hospitals covered under the 340B program. These cuts jeopardize care for millions by directly reducing revenue to safety net hospitals that care for vulnerable patents in underserved and rural communities, without addressing the underlying price of the drugs.

Since 1992, the 340B program has leveraged mandated discounts offered by drug manufacturers to help hospitals and other covered entities provide discounted drugs and lifesaving services to their patients. CMS’ proposed rule will eliminate funding that hospitals use to support the unreimbursed cost of care for those who need it the most.

Click here for full text of the letter.

Monday, September 25, 2017

AANP President urges Senate to Ensure Health Care Legislation Upholds Patient Protections, Coverage for Pre-existing Conditions

Source: American Association of Nurse Practitioners

Washington, D.C. - September 25, 2017  (The Ponder News) -- The following statement is being issued by AANP President Joyce Knestrick, PhD, C-FNP, FAANP:

"As the Senate moves closer to action on health care reform, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) urges Senators to take a measured approach ensuring that any final legislation protects patient access to Medicaid, Medicare and other programs that cover the cost of care. There are more than 234,000 nurse practitioners (NPs) delivering health care to patients throughout the country. Currently, three of four NPs treat Medicare beneficiaries, and 78 percent see Medicaid patients. As this process moves forward, proposals must protect affordable coverage regardless of pre-existing conditions, uphold the principles of essential benefits, safeguard patients' access to the health care provider of their choice, including nurse practitioners, and strengthen the health care workforce while bringing greater overall efficiency to the health care system."

Thursday, August 3, 2017

Reps. Courtney, Larson & Higgins Announce New Legislation That Makes Medicare Buy-In An Option For Americans Ages 50-64

Washington, D.C. - August 3, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- As the national dialogue heats up around healthcare and Americans are seeking real solutions that address their long-term needs, Reps. Joe Courtney (CT-02), John Larson (CT-01) and Brian Higgins (NY-26) are announcing introduction of the “Medicare Buy-In and Healthcare Stabilization Act”, a bill that improves on the successes of the Medicare program and provides middle-age Americans a new option for affordable, quality healthcare. The Medicare Buy-In Act will lower the Medicare eligibility age to 50 years and offer the option to buy-in to Medicare thus avoiding the increase in premiums that older Americans often face. Additionally, working Americans who wish to buy into the program would have the option to do so, and their employers could continue to contribute to their premiums pre-tax, a win-win for those employers and employees. The buy-in option will hold down costs in both Medicare and the private market.

Congressman Courtney said, “With the demise of “repeal” which was structured from day 1 as a hyper partisan Republican exercise, it is time Congress listens to what the American people have been saying loud and clear for several years. We need to work together to fix the weaknesses in the ACA rather than butcher it. The Medicare Buy In and Health Care Stabilization Act provides relief for the higher cost, older population in the individual and small business market, and restores the market stabilizers that Republicans have undermined and caused insurance premiums to spike in 2017 and 2018. Lastly, the bill provides exciting new ways to reduce health care spending by cracking down on fraud and instructs the Department of Health and Human Services to employ tried and true tools to cut costs in the area of prescription drugs. This bill not only does not add to the deficit, but it will, in fact, save money for America’s taxpayers.”

“In public events and town halls across the country, the American people have spoken up and demanded solutions. They have rejected ACA repeal and they have rejected partisan bickering. That is why I have joined with Reps. Higgins and Courtney to develop a simple and commonsense solution that offers one path forward to strengthen our health care system. This proposal will give Americans (ages 50-64) the ability to buy-into Medicare should they find their current options on the private market unaffordable or unsatisfactory,” said Rep. Larson. “Additionally, through targeted reforms focused on improving the quality and delivery of care, we are looking to the future to strengthen the long-term solvency of Medicare, and the health care system overall.”

“For more than 50 years Medicare has been a reliable, efficient, and popular healthcare delivery system for older Americans and it is time to build on healthcare that works,” said Congressman Higgins. “Americans pay too much for health care and still the country ranks near the bottom, among similar sized nations, in quality for its investment. This legislation would allow us to leverage the purchasing power of the millions of people to deliver better care at lower costs.”

Congress approved legislation authorizing Medicare and Medicaid in 1965 through the Social Social Security Act. In the first 6 months of 1966, 19 million people enrolled in Medicare. In 2016 approximately 57 million people received health insurance through the Medicare program.

“As Congress considers improvements to the Affordable Care Act, it is a no-brainer to provide Americans approaching retirement with quality affordable health care by expanding the popular and successful Medicare program,” said Rep. Welch. “I am particularly pleased that this bill includes my legislation to empower the federal government to negotiate lower Medicare drug prices with pharmaceutical companies. It simply makes no sense for the federal government to continue to buy drugs at wholesale while paying retail prices.”

"Instead of the dangerous and partisan approach Republicans in Congress are pursuing that will rip health insurance away from millions of Americans and make health care more expensive for seniors and families, we should be working together to help more Americans afford high quality health care,” said Rep. Huffman. “That’s why today we’re introducing the ‘Medicare Buy-In and Healthcare Stabilization Act’ to take one of our nation’s most successful programs -- Medicare -- and open it up to millions of Americans. The more people who can buy into Medicare, the better for everyone. Congress ought to work together to provide more affordable health care options for our constituents, instead of working to take it away."

Rep. Deutch added, “As Republicans play games around the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, we’re offering an alternative: a thoughtful bill that works to repair some problems in our healthcare system. Between Trumpcare’s age tax, repeal of protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and unrestrained costs to consumers, older Americans are at particular risk. Our bill takes the successes of Medicare and expands it to millions more Americans. It’s time for Republicans to pull the health care debate out of the shadows, stop buying votes with backroom deals, and start meaningful discussions across the aisle to find real solutions to our problems.”

Medicare Buy-In and Healthcare Stabilization Act

What the bill does:

Gives Americans ages 50-64 the option to purchase Medicare. Buy-in would be available through the exchanges during open enrollment, giving people the ability to comparison shop and allowing individuals eligible for premium tax credits or cost sharing reductions to apply them toward the buy-in premium. The Medicare buy-in would also be available to individuals who obtain healthcare through their employer, allowing for employer contributions.

Who is eligible?

According to the 2010 census, approximately 58 million people in the United States are between ages 50 and 64. This group is traditionally viewed by insurance companies as higher-risk and therefore face higher costs for health coverage. The AARP recently reported that four out of 10 adults age 50-64 – about 25 million people – have preexisting conditions. Both the Senate and House versions of repeal and replace would allow insurers to charge older people five times more than younger beneficiaries beginning in 2018.

Why Medicare?

Currently 1 in 5 Americans are covered under Medicare and the majority of Medicare recipients are happy with their coverage. Medicare is a cost-effective program. CMS reports, “Administrative costs in 2015 were about 2.0 percent, 1.1 percent, and 0.4 percent of expenditures for Part A (hospital coverage), Part B (physician coverage), and Part D (drug coverage), respectively.”

How does it save consumers?

The buy-in option holds down costs by leveraging the buying power of Medicare. Participants could buy-into Medicare, including Part A, B and D, for an annual premium potentially as low as $8,212. By comparison, a 60 year-old purchasing a Gold health care plan on the exchange would pay approximately $13,308 (before subsidies). Participants continue to pay into the Medicare Trust Fund, protecting its future and allowing those who select the Medicare buy-in to receive the full Medicare benefits available to them upon reaching the age of 65.

Includes Mechanisms to Bend the Cost Curve and Stabilize the Marketplace:

The legislation builds on Medicare program integrity efforts to fight fraud and abuse in the system that hurts the long-term solvency of the programs and harms our beneficiaries.

It also ensures the enhancement of catastrophic reinsurance, reinstating the risk corridors that expired in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and makes the Cost Sharing Subsidies a permanent part of the baseline.

Rep. Joe Courtney is a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee where he serves on the Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions subcommittee. Congressman Brian Higgins serves as Vice-Ranking Member on the House Committee on Ways and Means including its Subcommittee on Health. Congressman John Larson is a longtime member of the House Ways & Means Committee and serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Social Security.

Additional cosponsors of the “Medicare Buy-In and Healthcare Stabilization Act” include: Rep. Peter Welch (VT-At Large), Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-2), Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17), Rep. Steve Cohen (TN-9), Rep. David Cicilline (RI-1), Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20), Rep. Jim McGovern (MA-2), Rep. Tim Ryan (OH-13), Rep. Betty McCollum (MN-4) and Rep. Ted Deutch (FL-22).

Friday, February 3, 2017

Immigration ban, Stream Buffer Zones, Medicare, Supreme Court, Obamacare

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees has introduced H.R. 735, the Universal Security of American Values Act of 2017 (USA Values Act), which will "invalidate the discriminatory Executive Order issued by the President banning visitors and refugees from certain countries from entering the United States simply because they exercise their right to religious liberty by adherence to the Muslim faith."

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The House voted 228-194 to pass H.J. Res 38, a joint resolution of congressional disapproval to stop the stream buffer zone rule. The resolution now goes to the U.S. Senate for consideration. If Congress votes to overturn the rule, it cannot be introduced again unless first authorized by Congress.

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Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) and Congressman Dave Loebsack (D-IA) introduced legislation (H.R. 741) to prevent Medicare’s enforcement of unreasonable and inflexible direct supervision rules for outpatient therapy services at Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and other small, rural hospitals. An annual extension bill has been passed into law since 2014.

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I applaud President Trump’s nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the United States Supreme Court. Judge Gorsuch has an excellent constitutional background, and was confirmed without any opposition to a seat on the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2006. Few judges in the United States are as qualified as Judge Gorsuch to serve on the Supreme Court and occupy the seat once held by Justice Scalia. I hope the Senate quickly approves this nomination. Bill Johnson (R-OH, 6th)

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Reps. Mark Meadows (R-NC) and Jim Jordan (R-OH) released the following statement calling on Republican leaders to bring H.R. 3762, which repealed the Affordable Care Act through budget reconciliation in 2016, to the floor for a vote:

“Health care will be better and more affordable once Obamacare is repealed. We committed to the American people to repeal every tax, every mandate, the regulations, and to defund Planned Parenthood. That’s what the American people expect us to do – and they expect us to do it quickly. Therefore we strongly encourage Republican leadership on Capitol Hill to take up the Affordable Care Act repeal bill that already passed the House, the Senate, and went to President Obama’s desk in early 2016. There’s no reason we should put anything less on President Trump’s desk than we put on President Obama’s now that we know it will be signed into law. We strongly encourage that this bill be brought to the floor for consideration as soon as possible so we can begin undoing this law that is hurting American families.”

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