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Aug 26, 2024·Behavioral Health Business

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has proposed new guidelines in its 2025 Physician Fee Schedule to include reimbursement for digital therapeutics used in behavioral health treatments. These guidelines propose three new HCPCS codes to cover the costs associated with digital mental health treatment devices that are FDA-cleared and used as part of a broader behavioral health treatment plan. Reflecting a careful approach, CMS aims to gather data on the use and effectiveness of these digital tools, which are seen as supplementary to ongoing treatment. Despite previous failures in the digital therapeutics market, CMS's move signals a growing adoption of technology in behavioral health, driven by both need and potential for improved clinical outcomes.

Aug 23, 2024·POLITICO

Google and California have agreed on a groundbreaking deal, contributing a combined $125 million over five years to bolster local newsrooms through a public charity at UC Berkeley’s journalism school. The initiative, aimed at counteracting the decline of journalism, includes a controversial $70 million earmark for artificial intelligence development, sparking concerns among journalists about job displacement. Despite being viewed as a pragmatic compromise by some lawmakers, the deal has faced criticism for being perceived as insufficient and overly favorable to Google, highlighting ongoing tensions over the role of tech giants in the news industry.

Aug 22, 2024·YouGov

A recent YouGov poll explores Americans' perspectives on the U.S. healthcare system, revealing widespread dissatisfaction, with only 40% having a favorable opinion compared to 53% who view it unfavorably. The survey also highlights demographic variations, noting that older adults and Black Americans tend to have more favorable views. Despite dissatisfaction with the system, medical professionals like doctors and nurses are viewed favorably by a majority. The poll addresses the complexities of medical malpractice and discrimination, where many Americans reported experiencing negative treatment based on factors like weight, insurance status, or identity. The data suggests that a significant number of Americans avoid medical care due to negative past experiences, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and respect from healthcare providers to improve patient comfort and trust. The poll methodology is based on a diverse sample aimed to represent U.S. adult citizens.

Aug 20, 2024·The Keckley Report

The article juxtaposes the divergent perspectives on healthcare reform discussed at two simultaneous events: a Democratic gathering in Chicago and an Epic Systems user conference in Verona. Democrats tout a recent drug pricing deal and advocate for more systemic regulation and protection of the ACA, criticizing the for-profit motives of the healthcare industry. Meanwhile, Epic celebrates its market dominance and emphasizes the role of technology in healthcare transformation. Both acknowledge the need for systemic change, driven by growing societal inequities and dwindling public trust, indicating an urgent tipping point for healthcare reform. The article concludes that real transformation may depend on outsider forces, as political risks deter comprehensive reform efforts.

Aug 19, 2024·STAT

The upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago will spotlight key health care issues that Democrats believe resonate strongly with voters, such as negotiated drug prices, abortion rights, and medical debt. The convention will feature speeches from high-profile Democrats, including Vice President Harris, who is the presidential candidate. Harris's platform emphasizes accelerating drug price negotiations, expanding abortion rights, and addressing medical debt, proposing policies like capping insulin costs and eliminating billions in medical debt. Additionally, the DNC is expected to underscore the Democrats' commitment to preserving the Affordable Care Act and expanding Medicaid, contrasting their agenda with the Republicans’ past efforts to repeal the ACA and impose restrictions on Medicaid.

Aug 16, 2024·HealthIT.gov

Since 2021, the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ASTP) and the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) have collaborated to develop survey questions to understand family physicians' experiences with health IT in primary care. Through a cooperative agreement involving UCSF, these surveys informed policy decisions and research. In 2022 and 2023, ABFM included these questions in their Continuous Certification Questionnaire, achieving a high response rate by embedding them in the recertification process. Despite differing respondent demographics between various surveys, trends in health IT usage and challenges were notably consistent. A key difference was the higher documentation burden reported by ABFM respondents. The survey questions were refined over the cooperative agreement's third year, with new data currently under analysis and available for request from ABFM.

Aug 16, 2024·Federal News Network

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has undertaken a major reorganization to streamline its technology, cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) strategies and policies. This move consolidates various functions, previously handled by multiple offices, into a more centralized structure under the Office of the Chief Technology Officer, Chief Data Officer, and Chief AI Officer, now named the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy (ASTP). This reorganization aims to enhance policy guidance, resource allocation, and operational efficiency, ensuring HHS can adapt to future technological advancements. Key cybersecurity functions have also been consolidated under the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). This structural overhaul is designed to enhance collaboration both within the department and with external partners, addressing the strategic importance of technology and data in fulfilling HHS's mission.

Aug 15, 2024·The HIPAA Journal

The enforcement of the HIPAA Security Rule is primarily overseen by HHS’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR), although other federal agencies, State Attorneys General, and organizations’ own HIPAA Privacy Officers often play more proactive roles in enforcement actions. OCR investigates a minimal number of breach notifications, typically less than 1%, leading to few enforcement actions. Violations requiring attention by other agencies, like the Department of Justice or HHS’ Office of Inspector General, often involve criminal actions or potential federal program exclusions. State Attorneys General may also impose civil monetary penalties for data breaches. While HIPAA Privacy Officers enforce compliance within organizations, the potential for future indirect enforcement by CMS through federal health program conditions signifies a need for stringent voluntary compliance to avoid penalties and exclusions.

Aug 15, 2024·PharmaLive

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has updated its Health Breach Notification Rule (HBNR), effective July 29, 2024, to address the evolving landscape of health data privacy. The revised rule now explicitly includes health apps and connected devices, such as wearables, under its purview and defines a breach to include unauthorized disclosures of personal health information to third-party platforms like Facebook and Google. Key changes involve new definitions of “PHR identifiable health information,” expanded requirements for breach notifications, and specific timeframes for informing both consumers and the FTC in case of data security breaches. The rule emphasizes the importance of protecting personal health data amid increasing data collection and usage for marketing purposes.

Aug 15, 2024·healthit.gov

In August 2024, Micky Tripathi and Lisa Molyneux provided an update on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Health IT Alignment Policy, initially announced in 2022. The policy aims to establish departmental-wide standards to promote interoperability in health IT investments. The recent publication of a proposed rule in the Federal Register seeks to amend the HHS Acquisition Regulation (HHSAR), setting requirements for health IT contracts to align with these standards. Efforts by the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy (ASTP) and other HHS entities have identified significant investments impacted by this policy and are providing technical support to ensure consistent implementation. Public comments on the proposed rule are open until October 8, 2024.

Aug 14, 2024·The Commonwealth Fund

The blog details recent state actions to protect patients from medical debt. The Biden administration recommended state-level actions to prevent debt accumulation, limit aggressive debt collection practices, and purchase and eliminate existing medical debt. While most states have not passed laws to prevent new medical debt, many have enacted protections for those already in debt, such as capping interest rates, offering reasonable payment plans, and restricting debt reporting to credit agencies. New York enhanced its financial assistance standards, and states like Delaware and New Jersey implemented further regulations to curb debt lawsuits and wage garnishments. Some states have also initiated medical debt forgiveness programs. Despite these measures, there is a continued need for upstream solutions to prevent medical debt from accruing initially.

Aug 12, 2024·Healthcare Finance News

Health system CEOs in rural Northeast regions, including Dartmouth Health in New Hampshire, MaineHealth, and the University of Vermont Health Network, are urging federal lawmakers to adopt new policies and increase funding to support rural hospitals. They argue that current Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements are insufficient, leading to financial strain as hospitals deliver essential services like primary care, mental health, and long-term care. To maintain access to care amid rising costs and workforce shortages, the CEOs propose increased federal funding, reduced regulatory burdens, and greater flexibility in care provision. Additionally, local insurers' premium hikes further complicate the healthcare landscape, emphasizing the need for federal intervention to sustain rural healthcare services.

Aug 7, 2024·publication

"What Washington wants in Cures 2.0"** Reps. Diana DeGette and Larry Bucshon are advancing "Cures 2.0," legislation building on the 2016 21st Century Cures Act, aimed to enhance health data sharing, FDA approval processes, and research. The follow-up aims to address pandemic prevention and better data governance, with industry lobbyists suggesting specific improvements in these areas. Organizations such as AHIP, the American Health Information Management Association, and others provided feedback emphasizing the importance of unlocking health data to improve outcomes and reduce costs.

Aug 7, 2024·publication

**Summary: Erosion of Trust in Health Care: A Public Health Crisis** A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights a significant decrease in trust towards physicians and hospital systems across the U.S. from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic through January 2024. Conducted through 24 waves of surveys involving 443,455 adults, the data showed a 31.4 percentage point drop in trust, consistent across various demographics. This distrust has been correlated with lower rates of COVID-19 vaccination and poses a challenge to public health efforts. The study underscores the urgent need to restore trust in healthcare to improve compliance with health measures and outcomes, despite challenges in addressing this complex issue. **Summary: Cross-Validation of Insurer and Hospital Price Transparency Data** A study comparing price transparency data from insurers and hospitals in Mississippi revealed a low overlap but high concordance in pricing. Out of 2,000+ hospital-billing code observations, only 16.3% were present in both data sources. However, overlapping prices showed a high correlation, with 77.4% matching exactly and 84.4% within a 10% margin. This indicates accurate pricing despite administrative misalignment. The study emphasizes the need to simplify

Aug 2, 2024·Becker's Healthcare

Mark Cuban has issued a stark warning to self-insured employers about the potential for lawsuits related to pharmacy rebates in employee benefits programs. Highlighting the increasing legal pressures, Cuban emphasizes that it's not a matter of if, but when these employers will face class action lawsuits that could surpass previous major settlements, such as those in the tobacco industry. Recent lawsuits against companies like Wells Fargo and Johnson & Johnson for alleged mismanagement and inflated drug prices underline the growing scrutiny under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). Employers are advised to thoroughly review their contracts and claims data to ensure fiduciary compliance and mitigate potential legal risks.

Jul 30, 2024·Healthcare IT News

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a restructuring aimed at enhancing strategy and policymaking for IT, cybersecurity, data, and AI. Responsibilities will be redistributed among three agencies, with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC) rebranded to include broader technology and policy roles. Key positions, including Chief Technology Officer and Chief AI Officer, will oversee respective strategies and governance. This restructuring supports President Biden’s executive order on AI and aims to improve HHS’s adaptability and strategic initiatives in these critical areas.

Jul 30, 2024·cyberscoop

The Biden administration’s cybersecurity policy marks a notable shift, aiming to shift the burden of protection from consumers to the private sector responsible for technology and critical infrastructure. This strategy is implemented across 16 critical infrastructure sectors, introducing new regulations and voluntary initiatives to establish minimum security standards. Despite facing criticism for the extent of these changes, the administration has pushed forward, influenced by high-profile cyberattacks like those on Colonial Pipeline and JBS. Key elements of this policy include executive orders, the Secure by Design initiative, and mandatory incident reporting legislation. However, the effort is navigating complex challenges such as legal ambiguities post-Supreme Court rulings and resistance from some industry sectors and Republican legislators. Overall, while progress is acknowledged, stakeholders continue to debate the effectiveness and scope of these regulatory measures.

Jul 29, 2024·Healthcare IT News

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is undergoing a restructuring to enhance its strategies and policies in information technology, cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence. This effort will streamline responsibilities across the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC), now renamed the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy/ONC (ASTP/ONC), the Assistant Secretary for Administration (ASA), and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). Key roles like the Chief Technology Officer, Chief Data Officer, and Chief AI Officer will now fall under ASTP/ONC. This move aligns with President Biden’s Executive Order on AI, emphasizing secure and trustworthy AI practices. The restructuring aims to ensure HHS effectively leverages technological advancements to benefit public health and safety.

Jul 29, 2024·Becker's Hospital Review

The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee has voted to subpoena Ralph de la Torre, CEO of the bankrupt for-profit health system Steward Health Care, and investigate the company’s bankruptcy. This decision marks the first subpoena issued by the committee since 1981 and follows Steward’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing on May 11. The subpoena requires de la Torre to testify on September 12 regarding the ramifications of the bankruptcy on patient care. Despite recent findings of some room for patient care improvement, independent reports conclude that all Steward hospitals remain safe for patient care. Steward Health Care plans to address the subpoena with relevant committee staff, acknowledging the need for transparency.

Jul 25, 2024·PYMNTS

1. **EU, UK, and US Unite in GenAI Concerns**: Competition authorities from the US, EU, and UK have collectively voiced their worries about potential antitrust issues within the realm of generative AI, such as market concentration and anti-competitive practices. Top officials emphasized the necessity for swift measures to manage the fast-paced developments in AI technology. Highlighted risks include control over critical resources, entrenchment of market power, and potentially harmful partnerships. The collaborative stance indicates a unified approach to oversight, with likely increased scrutiny on AI-related mergers and business practices in the upcoming months. 2. **EU’s AI Regulation Sparks Concern From Meta**: Meta, Facebook's parent company, has expressed concern over the European Union's stringent AI regulations, fearing they might isolate Europe from advanced AI services. Meta's deputy privacy officer, Rob Sherman, emphasized that regulatory clarity is crucial to prevent hindering the deployment of cutting-edge technologies in the EU. This sentiment reflects the broader challenge of balancing innovation with responsible AI governance. Meta's compliance with recent EU requests has already delayed AI assistant rollouts, highlighting potential impacts on Europe's competitive edge in the global AI market. 3. **UK Labour Government Treads Carefully on AI Regulation**: Under Prime Minister