Policy and Legislation

The administration's plan could inhibit progress on improving interoperability, eradicating info blocking, and medical research but also funds cybersecurity and the VA's EHR modernization.

The President's proposed budget makes deep cuts to health departments and public health initiatives while boosting budgets for the FDA and the NIH, as well as funding to combat the opioid crisis.

Referencing the administrative burden for physicians, the group also recommends CMS limit evaluation and management measures and instead focus on interoperability efforts.

The changes have been praised by the American Association of Physician Assistants, which said past restrictions have forced patients into uncomfortable choices.

HIMSS Senior Director of Congressional Affairs broke down how the massive spending bill will boost telehealth, Medicaid and other crucial health IT needs.

Supporters maintained that tax increases would be offset by the elimination of insurance premiums, copays and other costs.

The agreement would avert a government shutdown if the House can agree to it, though Minority Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she will oppose it unless Republicans add protections for Dreamers.

President Trump says he'd love to see a shutdown if measures on wall and immigration are not part of bill. The bill would extend community health center funding for two years.

The new bipartisan organization, which includes Mark Cuban, Andy Richter, Bradley Whitford, Atul Gawande, former CMS head Mark McClellan and several hospital CEOs, will advocate for policies that lower care costs while improving access.

Molina also said that a contracting consultant for the department had "financial ties" to a company affiliated with the winning bidder.