Federal Watch
March 1st, 2012
AGS is tracking developments of interest to geriatrics health professionals in order to provide weekly updates for our readers via our List Serv, americangeriatrics.org, our Facebook page, and our Twitter feed. This week, we update you on CMS’ proposed rule on EHR, a bill that would repeal that Independent Payment Advisory Board, and an update on the President’s budget for FY 2013. We additionally remind you of our recent advocacy activities, and how you can take action by contacting your legislators, urging them to fully address and put an end to the flawed SGR formula.
Electronic Health Records Program Advances to ‘Stage 2′
Federal officials recently announced the release of their second-stage guidelines for “meaningful use” of electronic records, which advocates for the reduction of medical errors while aiming to streamline heath care. The proposed rule requires doctors and hospitals to significantly increase their usage of electronic records, as well as better engage patients and improve the transferability of records. As you may recall, the 2009 federal stimulus provided $30 billion as an incentive for health care providers nationwide to implement electronic records for their Medicare and Medicaid patients. The “meaningful use” program provides financial rewards in three stages if certain standards are met. The first stage requires providers to begin setting up an electronic system and to record basic information including diagnoses and prescriptions for a portion of patients. The objectives of the second stage are similar, in that the plan encourages health care providers to order prescriptions electronically, however the minimums for “meaningful usage” will increase. For example, at least 60 percent of patients must have their medications and lab tests ordered electronically during Stage 2, instead of the 30 percent required during Stage 1. AGS is in the process of reviewing the proposed rule and plans to comment. For more information, please visit here.
House Subcommittee Approves Bill to Repeal IPAB
This week, the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee voted to approve legislation that would abolish the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB), which has been charged with curbing Medicare spending growth. The Board, which would comprise independent experts appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, was created under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). IPAB has been touted by Republicans as a “rationing board”. However, the GOP bill, the Medicare Decisions Accountability Act of 2011, has also won some Democratic supporters. The Senate is now under pressure to bring up the bill. For more information, click here.
Geriatrics Training Programs Take Small Cut in President's FY 2013 Budget; Funding for NIA and VA Research Receives Slight Increase
Last month, the President released his proposed budget for FY 2013, which begins October 1 and serves as a blueprint for Congress as they begin to work on its appropriations bills. The budget proposes $228 million for Title VII health professions, a $40 million (15%) cut below FY 2012, and $251 million for Title VIII nursing workforce development programs, a $20 million (8%) increase over FY 2012. The geriatrics training programs (GECs, GACAs, fellowships) under Title VII would receive $30.6 million (of the $228 million total) – a one percent decrease from FY 2012 but an almost 8% decrease from what was appropriated in FY 2011. The Title VIII geriatric nursing program would receive $4.48 million (of the $251 million total) – also a one percent decrease from FY 2012. Also in the President’s budget, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) would receive $1.1 billion – a $500 thousand increase over FY 2012. The Veterans Affairs Medical and Prosthetic Research Program would receive $582 million – a $1 million plus increase over FY 2012. These programs are vital to the health and well-being of all older Americans. AGS will continue to advocate Congress to invest in these programs, which are needed to support the training of the healthcare workforce and to foster groundbreaking medical research so that our nation is prepared to meet the unique healthcare needs of the rapidly growing population of seniors.
REMINDER Due March 9: NIA 2012 Summer Institute Now Accepting Applications for Introduction to Aging Research
The NIA 2012 Summer Institute, now in its 26th year, is soliciting applications for an intensive introduction to aging research. This workshop for investigators new to aging research is focused on current issues, research methodologies, and funding opportunities. The Summer Institute on Aging Research is one of the premier short-term training opportunities for new investigators. This is an invaluable introduction to the diverse fields of research in all fields of aging and geriatrics and affords students unparalleled access to NIA and NIH staff in an informal setting. The 2012 Summer Institute will be held July 7 – 13 in Maryland. Support is available for travel and living expenses. Please view more information on the NIA web site: 2012 NIA Summer Institute. A link to the online application is also provided on this web page.
What AGS Did This Week
AGS sent a letter to key leaders on the House and Senate Appropriations Committees urging members to support increased funding for the National Institute on Aging. As a member of the Friends of the NIA, a broad-based coalition of more than 45 aging, disease, research, and patient groups committed to the advancement of medical research that affects millions of older Americans, AGS asks that Congress support a $300 million increase for NIA in FY 2013. We believe that sustained and enhanced federal investments in aging research are absolutely essential to the delivery of high quality, coordinated and efficient care to our nation's seniors. To read our full letter, click here.
How You Can Help:
AGS encourages you to Take Action by visiting AGS’ Health in Aging Advocacy Center. Contact your members of Congress today, and urge them to call for both the repeal of the SGR and comprehensive Medicare payment and delivery reform. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Susie Sherman, Coordinator of Public Affairs & Advocacy, ssherman@americangeriatrics.org.
Modified On: March 1st, 2012
