Government Spending Bill and Its Impact on Healthcare
LAS VEGAS – The spending bill, expected to be released by Republicans as early as this weekend, aims to avoid a government shutdown ahead of the March 14 deadline. The bill, which will outline spending cuts of $880 billion from the Energy and Commerce Committee, has left healthcare professionals concerned about the potential impact on Medicaid and telehealth.
Medicaid and Telehealth at Risk
Tom Leary, senior vice president and head of Government Relations at HIMSS, believes that the cuts to Medicaid will not be as drastic as expected, but the exact figures remain unknown. HIMSS has been advocating for a permanent extension of telehealth and remote patient monitoring flexibilities, which expire on March 31. Leary expressed confidence that the bill will include an extension, citing support from both sides of the aisle.
HIMSS Priorities
In addition to the spending bill, HIMSS has identified several key focus areas for the year:
Global Perspective on AI
- The European Union has passed an AI framework, which global companies will use, as they are not interested in building different frameworks for different countries.
- A global perspective on AI is crucial for HIMSS, as it affects the United States and its healthcare system.
Responsible Use of AI
- HIMSS emphasizes the importance of responsible use of AI in healthcare, ensuring that it is used to improve patient care, not to compromise on privacy or accuracy.
Cybersecurity
- The European Union has also passed cybersecurity legislation, which is crucial for global corporations, as they will not build different frameworks for different countries.
Digital Health Transformation
- HIMSS is committed to driving digital health transformation, which includes remote patient monitoring and telehealth, to improve patient care and outcomes.
Workforce
- The organization is also focused on the workforce, ensuring that healthcare professionals have the skills and training needed to adapt to the rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
Conclusion
As the spending bill is released, it is essential to consider the potential impact on Medicaid and telehealth. HIMSS remains committed to advocating for responsible use of AI, cybersecurity, digital health transformation, and workforce development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the expected release date for the spending bill?
A: The spending bill is expected to be released as early as this weekend.
Q: What are the potential cuts to Medicaid?
A: The exact figures are unknown, but Tom Leary, senior vice president and head of Government Relations at HIMSS, believes they will not be as drastic as expected.
Q: Is there support for extending telehealth and remote patient monitoring flexibilities?
A: Yes, there is support from both sides of the aisle, and HIMSS is confident that the bill will include an extension.
Q: What are the key focus areas for HIMSS in 2023?
A: The organization is focused on AI, responsible use of AI, cybersecurity, digital health transformation, and workforce development.
