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Five Incorrect Claims Heard at Town Halls
 Statement: I'm satisfied with my current health coverage. I'm outraged that I won't be able to keep it if H.R. 3200 passes. Read Page 16 of the bill!
Reality: What Page 16 actually says is that, once the new health insurance Exchange is up and running, insurers will only be able to write new policies for employer coverage that meets a minimum standard. Specifically, employee coverage would need to be at least as good as the basic benefit plan available through the Exchange. No one will end up with worse coverage as a result of the new standard.
As for policies already in place when the Exchange comes on-line, employees could remain covered by them for as long as 5 years, if and only if the insurer does not change the “terms or conditions”. After the 5-year “grace period” ends, even these policies would be subject to that minimum standard.
Even if the insurer stopped offering coverage, employees would NOT be thrown into the “public option” plan. They would, however, be able to choose coverage in the Exchange (either a private or public option) that meets the minimum standard that the old coverage didn't. Those who are low- or moderate-income would be able to get assistance to help make that coverage affordable.
Statement: We have a 1,000-page bill, but we're ignoring most of the simple solutions like letting insurance companies sell policies across state lines.
Reality: If insurers could sell policies in any state, companies would flock to the state with the least rules and base themselves there, quickly creating a “race to the bottom”. That state's rules would become the national “standard” everywhere.
These largely unregulated insurers would then sell cheap policies in many states with more rules, but mainly scooping up the healthy and leaving older or sicker with fewer options as they undercut the existing in-state market. Even for those who do get less expensive coverage, the cost savings would come from reduced benefits, not increased value.
Statement: No one is ever denied access to health care in this country. We have emergency rooms, community health centers, county health departments, etc.
Reality: Access to the emergency room or safety net providers can never replace real health coverage that provides comprehensive and timely health care. Emergency rooms treat the problem of the moment, but can't prevent anything, provide follow-up care or address the real causes. Safety net providers can help, but they are very overburdened and have few of the resources that the general health care system has.
Uninsured people receive significantly less care than those with insurance coverage. They delay getting care and are diagnosed later. They are less likely to get follow-up care and less likely to be admitted to a hospital.
Statement: Under the House bill, a “government-controlled” public option will result as many as 88 million Americans losing their current health care coverage.
Reality: First, the source of that estimate was a report by the Lewin Group, a consulting group owned by UnitedHealth, one of the nation's largest insurers and an opponent of the public option.
Second, the estimate of 88 million is based on an unrealistic scenario considered in the Lewin report in which the public option would be operated like Medicare and be open to all employers by 2011. That is not what is proposed in the House bill. The independent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) by contrast estimates that about 30 million people would obtain coverage through the Exchange, and only about a third of those (11 million) would end up selecting the public option over other private coverage.
Finally, when interviewed by the Washington Post, even Lewin's VP conceded that some “would indeed lose what they have, but they might very well be better off.”
Statement: If H.R. 3200 passes, there won't be enough doctors to go around. There will be long waits to get to your primary care doctor, and that will also delay referrals to specialists.
Reality: The private insurance market has been unable to address the primary care shortage because there is no incentive in the current system for doctors to choose to practice primary care rather than specialty care. By contrast, a major section of the bill is dedicated entirely to boosting the nation’s primary care provider workforce. This includes, for example:
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Expanding scholarships and loans for individuals in shortage areas.
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Expanding the National Health Service Corps and create a new primary care loan program.
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Increasing the supply of advanced nurse practitioners to further expand the capacity of the system.
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Increasing the number of primary care physicians trained outside of hospitals, where most primary care is delivered.
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Reassigning unfilled graduate medical education residency slots to maximize this critical resource.
Critics often point to Canada as a system with long waits for care. Although those criticisms are significantly overstated, wait times for some services are longer in Canada than in the U.S. However, that gap is largely attributed to Canada's earlier restrictions on medical school enrollment, which is the opposite of the approach America is taking.
Greg Mellowe, Florida CHAIN
Uninsured Numbers Hold Steady:
The Story Behind the Non-Story
 The Census Bureau's newly released estimate of the number of Floridians without health insurance coverage in 2008 was essentially unchanged from the year before. But the real story lies underneath that non-story.
According to the 2009 Current Population Survey, 3.62 million Floridians were uninsured in 2008. That's slightly less than the 2007 estimate of 3.64 million, although the slight decrease is well within the survey's margin of error. However, both estimates are well below the 2006 peak of 3.83 million. Also unchanged from last year: slightly less than 1 in 4 of non-elderly Floridians lacked health coverage.
Why has the growth in the number of uninsured Floridians suddenly flattened out?
For one, statewide estimates make all Floridians seem like one uniform group. Florida is extremely diverse, however, so significant changes affecting people in certain areas or income brackets may be overlooked when all groups are thrown in together.
In this case, with unemployment rising and incomes falling with the recession, more people became poor enough to qualify for Medicaid. About 450,000 fewer Floridians had coverage through their jobs in 2008 than in 2007, but 240,000 more were enrolled in Medicaid. Meanwhile, 115,000 more had to purchase their own coverage. So, not everyone who lost private coverage became uninsured, at least right away.
In addition, Florida's overall population declined for the first time in more than 60 years. The number of seniors continued to grow, however, contributing to a jump of 130,000 in Medicare enrollment.
Most significantly, about 110,000 fewer children were without coverage in 2008. Research suggests that unemployment does not affect children's health coverage rates as much as adults'. This doesn't mean that fewer kids escaped poverty, however. In fact, the number living in deep poverty actually jumped by an alarming amount. The only silver lining in that very dark cloud is the fact that the number of kids in deep poverty who also lacked coverage remained the same.
Among which groups of children then did a drop in the number of uninsured occur? The decrease was mainly among households with moderate incomes. Florida KidCare, which provides subsidized coverage only for low-income children, was therefore not a factor in their case.
Overall, the good news is that, despite huge State budget deficits, Medicaid eligibility won't be tightened and more laid off workers will be able to afford COBRA coverage through 2010, thanks to federal stimulus funding. The bad news is that those resources will dry up in 2011, and our thin coverage safety net will only get thinner. At the same time, premiums and out-of-pocket costs in private coverage will continue to rise. All of this will once again significantly increase the number without coverage.
Unless something changes, the plateau in Florida's un-insurance rates will be followed by a spike to record levels of un-insurance. The only alternative on the horizon: real health care reform.
Note: To read more about the meaning and limitations of the Census estimates, click here. To read an informative blog post about counting the uninsured, click here
Greg Mellowe, Florida CHAIN
Broward Joins Active AHCA Managed Care Ombudsman Committees (MCOC’s)
 What are MCOC’s?
Administered by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Division of Health Quality Assurance , Bureau of Managed Health Care, the Managed Care Ombudsman Committees (MCOC’s) are voluntary organizations that may be formed in any of the 11 areas of the state where AHCA has a field office. The MCOC members serve as advocates for consumers with their managed health care plans.
Where are the MCOC’s located?
As of August 26, the MCOC of Broward has been re-established and has begun handling consumer complaints. Currently, there are three fully operational MCOCs. These are located in parts of West Florida and South Florida. They cover the following counties: Broward, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Indian River, Lee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Sarasota, St. Lucie
How do MCOC’s help consumers?
MCOC’s help consumers to:
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understand their rights and responsibilities under their health plan contracts,
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understand and navigate through their health plan’s internal grievance procedures
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file a grievance with the Subscriber Assistance Program when consumers are not satisfied with the outcome of the grievances filed with their health plan
The MCOC’s can also help consumers by contacting managed care plan on their behalf and by working with the consumer and the managed care plan to resolve a grievance. However, not all grievances can be resolved to the satisfaction of the consumer. Sometimes the consumer’s managed care contract specifically excludes a particular service that the consumer would like to have. If that is the case, the MCOC can help the consumer understand their managed care contract and why the service cannot be provided.
How can a consumer file a complaint?
Consumers may contact AHCA to file a complaint with their local MCOC, simply by calling 1-888-419-3456. This toll-free number reaches the AHCA’s complaint and information call center, where an agent will take the caller’s name, address and phone number; and the name of their managed care plan and their personal identification number for the plan; as well as a description of the problem.
What happens to complaints?
First, call center staff will advise consumers to complete their health plan’s internal grievance process. If needed, they will provide the plan’s grievance phone number and name of the plan’s grievance counselor.
Second, if the area has a MCOC in operation, the call center agent will ask if the consumer would like to have their complaint reviewed by the MCOC. If a consumer says “yes” to this question, their complaint will be sent to their area MCOC for resolution. A member of the MCOC will call to provide assistance.
Third, if the consumer has completed their health plan’s internal grievance process, they can tell the call center agent that they are still not satisfied with the outcome of their complaint, and that they wish to be transferred to the Subscriber Assistance Program. The MCOC can also help consumers file their grievance with the Subscriber Assistance Program.
Consumers are urged to read their plan’s member handbook and schedule of benefits. It is the consumer’s responsibility to know what their insurance or health plan will pay for, such as procedures, prescriptions, treatments, etc.; and to verify that their health care practitioner is a provider for their particular plan.
What issues are not within the authority of the MCOCs?
The MCOCs have no enforcement powers. However, members of these committees know the laws and rules that affect managed care plans’ provision of services. Consumers will need to share a copy of their contract with the MCOC member to enable the member to get you through their plan’s grievance process.
Are complaints confidential?
Florida Statutes require that a person’s medical records remain confidential. Only the information necessary to process your complaint will be taken by the call center. If a consumer asks to be contacted by the MCOC, the information you share with the MCOC member also remains confidential.
Would an HMO have a copy of all of a consumer’s medical records?
Probably not. Unless the HMO is a staff model HMO that actually employs the physicians rather than contracting with them to provide services, it would have no reason to have copies of medical records. Most HMOs obtain medical records only when a member files a grievance based on denial of services for medical necessity.
Can consumers obtain copies of their patient records from their health care practitioners?
Yes. Section 456.057, Florida Statutes, allows a patient, or legal representative, to obtain, in a timely manner, a copy of all reports and records relating to an examination or treatment by a health care practitioner.
Can a consumer be charged for copies of records?
Yes. Section 456.057, Florida Statutes, allows a health care practitioner to charge no more than the actual cost of copying, which may include reasonable staff time or an amount designated by rules provided by the regulatory board.
What happens to the health plan as a result of a complaint?
Sanctions may be imposed when the plan has demonstrated a pattern of non-compliance with state regulations and requirements.
Information taken from AHCA’s MCOC brochure.
HJR 37: Not Even A “Tenth” of a Good Idea
Proposed Florida Amendment to "Opt Out" of National Reform Untenable
 As Congress wrestles with the question of how to get health care reform done, the Florida Legislature seems likely to take up a distracting, punitive and likely futile effort to undo it.
House Joint Resolution 37, filed by Rep. Scott Plankon (R-Longwood), would place a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution before voters that would supposedly allow Florida to “opt out” of reform. The sponsor of the Senate version, Sen. Carey Baker (R-Eustis), told the Panama City News Herald that the amendment would "protect Florida's citizens from being put into a federally mandated (health care) system that they may not think is best."
If HJR 37 passes both the House and Senate by a three-fifths margin this spring, the proposed amendment could be on the ballot next November. Sixty percent of voters would need to approve.
The crux of the proposal states that “[a] law or rule shall not compel, directly or indirectly, any person, employer, or health care provider to participate in any health care system.” In this case, “compelling” includes imposing a fine or penalty for not participating.
The amendment would impact two components of the reform proposals currently moving through Congress. First, the amendment seeks to negate any “individual mandate” requiring individuals to have health coverage. Second, it aims to kill any “employer mandate” requiring employers to either provide coverage to employees or pay a fee.
Although almost a quarter of the Florida House has already signed on as co-sponsors, HJR 37 is fraught with problems. It is perhaps best viewed as merely an angry gesture.
First, supporters have all but conceded that the amendment could not override federal legislation. Nevertheless, as Baker explained to the News Herald, “[t]hey are going to say their law trumps ours, and we are going to argue with them." Historically, however, the courts have not agreed with Baker's arguments..
Second, even if the amendment were somehow upheld by the courts, it would be limited in its ability to thwart federal reform. (However, the proposal does clearly demonstrate why leaving too much of implementation up to states is a bad idea.) The amendment as drafted would, for example, allow Floridians the “freedom” to ignore the requirement to obtain coverage. However, H.R. 3200 already allows exemptions for hardship and for religious objections. Also, the 2.5% fee charged to those who refuse coverage is not a major source of funding for reform.
Finally, the effort is supposedly based on the 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government for the States. In fact, a separate bill filed by Baker would urge Congress to “honor the provisions of the Constitution "which limit the scope and exercise of federal power”. According to the bill, however, “many federal laws are in direct violation of the Tenth Amendment”, and “[s]ome proposals now pending may further violate the Constitution.”
The bill calls on the Legislature to claim “sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment over all powers not "granted to the Federal Government.” This dangerous interpretation – that the Constitution is basically a contract among “sovereign” [i.e., independent] States - was also used to justify both secession and the Civil War.
That flawed argument has also driven other efforts such as resistance to the federal minimum wage and defiance of the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education decision. Southern Congressmen condemned the Brown decision as trampling on States' rights, emphasizing that the Constitution doesn't mention education. Similar statements were repeated throughout the summer at town hall meetings, although this time around, health care was the focus.
Greg Mellowe, Florida CHAIN
Florida’s Medicaid Shell Game
Medicaid Recipients Likely Victims of State's Misuse of Stimulus Funds
 State economists recently estimated that the State looks to be $1.9 billion short of the General Revenue funding needed to meet “critical” Medicaid needs in 2010-11. The problem with that prognosis is that the Legislature owes the Medicaid program an even greater amount in State funding that has been inappropriately diverted from Medicaid in the past year. Where is that money?
But wasn't stimulus funding supposed to protect Medicaid from being gutted? Yes, Florida will receive more than $5 billion dollars in extra federal stimulus funding to cover Medicaid expenses over a 27-month period ending December 2010.
However, by the time the stimulus funding stops flowing in January 2011, Florida will have diverted more than half of that $5+ billion and used it simply to replace State funding for Medicaid. That money was freed up and diverted for purposes that have nothing to do with health care.
Florida will also generate almost $900 million in additional revenue for 2010-11 from the $1 per pack increase in the cigarette tax passed last year. That money was intended to add resources to Medicaid to help offset the cost of treating smoking-related illnesses. It seems that current plans are for that money also to simply replace what Medicaid was already doing. Just as Lottery funding only replaced existing funding for education, the Legislature seems ready to do the same with cigarette tax revenue and Medicaid.
Click here to read the detailed report.
Greg Mellowe, Florida CHAIN
Florida Covering Kids & Families Holds News Conferences and Enrollment Fairs across State
 Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink (center) encourages families to put getting health coverage for their kids at the top of their back-to-school checklist, alongside West Palm Beach Mayor Lois Frankel (left) and District 88’s State Representative Mark Pafford (right).
Florida Covering Kids and Families (FL-CKF) of the University of South Florida’s Lawton and Rhea Chiles Center for Healthy Mothers and Babies recently concluded its Florida KidCare Back-to-School outreach campaign. The campaign was designed to increase public awareness of and enrollment in Florida KidCare and provide technical assistance to areas across the state engaged in Florida KidCare outreach.
A major component of this effort included coordinating news conferences and enrollment fairs in four parts of the state: Orange, Palm Beach, and Pinellas counties, as well as the Panhandle area. Each event featured free giveaways for children, Florida KidCare information, and endorsements of Florida KidCare by community leaders and parents. All received valuable local news coverage. These events encouraged parents to put health insurance for their children at the top of their back-to-school checklist.
The Orange County Healthy Start Coalition held its news conference and enrollment fair August 8 at the 9th Annual School Supply Giveaway at Jones High School in Orlando. The event was sponsored by State Senator Gary Siplin and Orlando City Commissioner Daisy Lynum. The event attracted 2500 attendees and targeted African-American and Hispanic families below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Approximately 60 families received application assistance. Speakers included Senator Siplin, Commissioner Lynum, Florida Healthy Kids Executive Director Rich Robleto, Orange County Healthy Start Coalition Executive Director Linda Sutherland, Florida KidCare parent Aracely Robledo, and pediatrician Dr. Toni Moody. The event received media coverage from the Orlando Sentinel, Orlando Times, Individual.com, and the Orange County Internet News Service.
On August 15th, the Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas County took part in National Health Center Week at the Community Health Centers at Pinellas Park. The event targeted uninsured school-age children under 200% FPL, and drew over 250 people. Eighteen families were provided application assistance. Speaking at the event were Pinellas Park Mayor Bill Mischler, Florida Healthy Kids Corporation Executive Director Rich Robleto, Healthy Start Coalition Executive Director Dr. Judi Vitucci, Dr. Julie Cheek-Weiland, Medical Director of Community Health Centers of Pinellas, Inc., and Florida KidCare parent, Cindy McNulty. The event received coverage from WFTS-TV and WKES-FM.
The Panhandle Florida KidCare Coalition held its 3rd Annual Florida KidCare Back-to-School Bash on August 22 at Jackson Hospital in Marianna, Florida. Approximately 300 people were in attendance at the event, which targeted rural, uninsured African-American and Hispanic families below 200% FPL. Over 42 families received Florida KidCare application assistance. Speakers for the news conference were William Long, Administrator for the Jackson County Health Department, Chair of the Florida Healthy Kids Corporation Board of Directors, Loranne Ausley, former State Representative Curtis Richardson (District 8), Samantha Siegle, a Florida KidCare parent, and Shane Gilmore, Director of Patient Financial Services at Jackson Hospital. The event received media attention from Comcast Channel 4, Jackson County Floridan, Jackson County Times, and the Graceville News.
On August, 29, the Palm Beach Florida KidCare Coalition took part in the La Palma Health Fair at the South Olive Community Center in West Palm Beach. 3000 people attended the fair, which targeted uninsured Hispanic schoolchildren. News conference speakers included Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, Florida Representative Mark Pafford (Dist. 88), Florida Representative Mack Bernard (Dist. 84), West Palm Beach Mayor Lois Frankel, Bill Quinn, Chair of the Palm Beach County Florida KidCare Coalition, and Connie Lynn-Destache, a Florida KidCare grandmother. Media coverage was received from WPTV-TV, WPBF-TV, WFLX-TV, and La Palma.
The news conferences and enrollment fairs were one component of Florida Covering Kids and Families’ statewide outreach effort. In addition to these, FL-CKF’s school-based outreach project attended numerous staff meetings, school open houses, and meet-the-teacher events, in addition to providing Florida KidCare materials to schools across the state.
FL-CKF also helped coordinate the staffing of community partners to provide Florida KidCare outreach at events throughout Florida. Between July and October, more than 160 Back-to-School events have either been held or are scheduled in 36 counties. Local Florida KidCare coalitions have been very active in numerous outreach activities during the period, among the most memorable was an event hosted by the Okeechobee Florida KidCare Coalition and Wagon Wheel Horse Farm on August 22 in Okeechobee. Children and families were invited to visit the farm and horses, as well as receive information about the Florida KidCare program. Florida KidCare advocates and Okeechobee Coalition members were also on hand to assist families with applying online using computers provided by Wagon Wheel Horse Farm.
Patrick Cannon, PhD, Florida Covering Kids & Families
REAL STORIES FROM FLORIDA HEALTH CARE CONSUMERS
Losing Employer Health Coverage Gets Worker Huge Debt, Collections Harassment and Court Costs Before Hospital Helps; as Next Emergency Looms
 My name is Bonnie Davis and I am a 52 year old single woman. I am one of the millions of people employed by small business owners who are unable to offer health insurance benefits.
In 2005, a month before I would be eligible to receive health insurance, my employer informed us that he could no longer afford the costs of providing health insurance for employees. I could not afford to buy my own health insurance because premiums were too high.
Two months later, I began to have episodes of chest pain. I did not have insurance and no primary care doctor. One afternoon I had chest pain that would not go away and I ended up going to the emergency room, where I spent 16 hours and underwent expensive medical tests. I was in too much pain to worry about how I would pay for my visit. I was diagnosed with a gallbladder attack and a referral to see a specialist.
I waited 6 months to see a specialist because that was the first appointment they could give me. The specialist determined that I needed my gallbladder removed, and said the ER should have removed my gallbladder the night I spent 16 hours. I think if I had insurance when I was in the ER, they might have treated me differently.
I told the hospital I did not have insurance and they referred me to financial assistance. I was told I did not qualify for any assistance and all costs would be my responsibility. Because I had no insurance, I had to pay $500 upfront. I would have had to wait even longer if my church had not helped provide the $500. The surgery costs came to over $30,000, including hospital and doctor costs.
The hospital and clinical practice wanted me to agree to pay each of them over $300/month. If I could not afford to buy insurance, how could I afford to pay each of them over $300/month?
After my surgery, I found myself burdened with over $33,000 in medical debt. I began to pay what I could afford each month, but the bills seemed insurmountable and created much stress for me.
University of Florida Clinical Practice Association, which is the practice that services Shands UF, sent me to a collection agency, even while accepting my monthly payments of $25. The collection agency called me every day on my cell phone at home and at work. One of their representatives called me a “dead beat”, and again, I was making regular monthly payments. This created more emotional stress for me. I have not had anyone talk to me like that before and I was doing my best to pay off my debt.
Because I could not pay a larger amount, my case was sent to an attorney and I was issued a court summons. I told the judge I was making regular monthly payments, and even while taking me to court, the UFFCPA continued to accept my money. The judge determined to continue my monthly payment amount, but now I must pay an additional $15/month to cover court costs. My original balance was $7367; after court costs the debt increased to $9746!
One blessing I have received was in December 2007. A representative from Shands sent me a letter and told me to reapply for financial assistance. In January 2008, they wrote off the remaining amount I still had outstanding to the hospital. I am still making payments to UFFCPA.
Today, I still do not have health insurance and I am still paying thousands of dollars in medical debt. I have spots on my legs that need to be checked, I have debilitating headaches, and I have not had a complete check-up since 2001.
Bonnie Davis, Gainesville
Too Ill to Work, No Health Coverage to Manage Symptoms
Young Couple Caught in Downward Spiral toward Eviction and Bankruptcy
 My wife, Summer, and I have found ourselves in crisis, as she has been in and out of the hospital for the last 2 years and has been battling health issues for the past 10 years: Fibromyalgia, an Auto-Immune Disorder, Anemia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a sleep disorder and, most recently diagnosed, Crohn's Disease. She has multiple health problems on top of these, and physicians are now looking into Lupus. She has become so ill that she does not leave the house often.
Summer is only 25 years old, and had a great career as a spokesmodel before her recent hospital stay and becoming very ill. Her career took her all over the nation, to many trade shows, motorsport events, etc. that were televised and in magazines. She created quite a name for herself in motorsports through hard work and networking, and we looked forward to seeing where her work might take her next. But all that was put on hold, as her daily symptoms worsened and she started to lose work when she could not participate in events. She can no longer work as her symptoms continue to get worse: daily flu-like symptoms, digestive issues, chronic fatigue and more.
For most of her life, Summer was a healthy girl. She was even a world-team competitor and gold medalist in roller skating, taking part in numerous extra-curricular activities and always on the go. At 16, she started noticing pain and other constant symptoms. At 17, she was diagnosed with a sleep disorder that had caused her to miss many school days, but with a physician’s note she was able to keep working towards graduation despite her chronic fatigue and pain. She was pushed from one doctor to another, as they all seemed to ignore her because she appeared healthy on the outside. But many red flags in her bloodwork should have alarmed doctors that something was going on.
Summer’s illness and the recession have put us in a bind. After her last hospital stay, our life did a 180 financially. We have no medical insurance, so we cannot afford the care she needs to feel well and operate daily. Prescriptions alone when she was discharged from the hospital were over $600, and are double that every month. Summer lives each day in pain and it is a constant battle for her to stay out of the Emergency Room. Our phones were disconnected and our water and power have been shut off several times. We have not been able to pay our rent or utility bills in months and have had little luck in finding financial help even after contacting most every charity/organization in the area. We have been receiving food through local food pantries but are still in need. Our vehicle was repossessed during the hospital stay, making it difficult to travel for work. We are on the edge of eviction. We are also finding it difficult to get medical care and supplies for our dog. We are also seeking financial help to file bankruptcy, and Summer has begun taking steps to set up local benefit nights. We are reaching out to charities, churches, individuals, anyone, for help or direction on where to find help with clothing, food, personal hygiene products and household items. We are on the edge of losing everything we own and the life we have created. If you know or can help in any way, any information would be very dear to us.
She has created a website documenting how it is to be very ill yet look young and healthy on the outside, and to get discriminated against because of that. She is starting to share how her life got turned upside down by illness at youtube.com/summerdemichael. People around the world have been inspired by her bravery and confidence through so many health obstacles, and have reached out to her. Some donations of personal hygiene products, clothing, food, internet, etc., have been such a blessing.
Also inspiring is Summer’s passion for helping others by sharing donations with those in need, creating a circle of helping despite her situation. She wants to utilize her broadcasting and communication skills and training to help others who are disabled like her to able to get the help they need more quickly and easily. Summer is considering creating a local non-profit which to help people in need with resources based on the records she keeps, working through case-by-case relationships. There is nothing in our area that can help with more than a utility bill. The food pantries at churches are hurting due to the recession.
Summer’s story was chosen to be part of a national health care reform television commercial. She was flown to D.C. for filming, and the commercial is now airing nationwide on all major networks. This has led to other media stories about her including a Health News Florida article and interest from CNN.
I believe sharing Summer’s story with the community can help open people’s eyes to the need to change our healthcare system. They can also be inspired by how strong Summer is through all this. We thank you for taking the time and reading our message and are praying to hear some good news soon.
Anthony & Summer DeMichael
Florida CHAIN Seeks Stories
Florida CHAIN welcomes contributions from health care consumers who are interested in sharing their experiences with readers of CHAIN Reaction. If you have a story to share, please contact lisam@floridachain.org
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September 22, 2009
Please confirm date, time and location for events, as they are subject to change after being listed here.
NEW: Health Care Reform Events
North Florida
Central Florida
East Central Florida
West Central Florida
Southeast Florida
Southwest Florida
FL Audio and Web Events
National
Other State Events & Notices
North Florida
Central Florida
East Central Florida
West Central Florida
Southwest Florida
Southeast Florida
Florida Audio and Web Events
Statewide Notices
Other National Events & Notices
Conferences
National Audio and Web Events
National Notices
National Campaigns
HEALTH CARE REFORM EVENTS & NOTICES
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Get Involved! Keep it Up!
Make sure our voices carry the critical message to DC: Floridians of all ages – both with and without insurance today - need, want and deserve the security of stable, affordable, quality health coverage for themselves and their families. |
NORTH FLORIDA
Public Option - Yes
Sept 22 6:00 pm Duval County Democratic Party, 4811 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville
Discussion of Healthcare Reform and distribution of target lists for canvass and phone calls to promote collection of declarations of support, calls and letters.
Change we can believe in: Healthcare Reform Now
Sept 23 12:00 Noon square on the beach before Walmart, Jacksonville
Wear Obama/democrats shirt at an intersection Distribute literature on HC Reform. Carry a placard that express the urgency and need for this reform. Carry a placard.
Heal the Land
Sept 25 12:00 Noon Holiday Inn, Gainesville
Call people and pass out fliers to let people know to make a wise decision, and to support Obama and pressure their member of Congress.
CENTRAL FLORIDA
Write a Letter for Change!
Sept 22 10:00 am OFA Office, 47 E Robinson St, Orlando
Join Organizing for America and members of your community as we write letters to our congress men and women as well as our Senators.
"Sick of It" Rally
Sept 22 12:00 Noon Sen. Nelson’s office, 225 E Robinson St, Orlando
It will be handicap accessible, gather your signs. The core of the rally will be speakers sharing personal stories about how they've been harmed.
Hardworking but Insurance Poor Canvass #1
Sept 23 12:00 Noon East Orlando Rio Pinar Area
Canvass nail and beauty salons in 32825 zip code and collect as many declarations as possible.
Give Out Health reform information
Sept 23 12:00 Noon Town of Tioga, Newberry Rd, Jonesville
Give out papers and talk about health reform...THE TRUTH
Making a Difference by Calling
Sept 23 12:00 Noon Private home on Thornton Ave, Orlando
Need volunteers to come and make phone calls for the Health Reform Act. Those that would like to be part of the change please join us.
EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA
Health Insurance Reform Pledge Drive @ Mims Library
Sept 22 Shifts begin at 9:00 AM, 11:00 am Mims Public Library, 3615 Lionel Rd,
Mims
During this crucial time in the debate over health insurance reform we need to ensure that the voices of the Americans who do not accept the status quo are being heard. Join us for a health insurance reform pledge drive where we will be collecting declarations in support of President Obama's health insurance reform principles which include: Reducing Cost, Guaranteeing Choice with public option, and ensuring affordable and quality health insurance for all Americans.
Phone Booth Event
Sept 24 12:00 Noon Palm Bay
Discussion of health care reform
Health Care Forum
Sept 24 7:00 pm BCC Cocoa Campus, 1519 Clearlake Rd, Bldg 3 Auditorium, Cocoa
Presented by the League of Women Voters & American Association of University Women, this will be an informative panel and discussion of health care in the U.S. Contact 321-720-3520.
Health Care Pledge Collection
Sept 25 Shifts begin at 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm Cocoa Beach Public Library
During this crucial time in the debate over health insurance reform we need to ensure that the voices of the Americans who do not accept the status quo are being heard. Join us for a health insurance reform pledge drive where we will be collecting declarations in support of President Obama's health insurance reform principles which include: Reducing Cost, Guaranteeing Choice with public option, and ensuring affordable and quality health insurance for all Americans.
Health Care Pledge Collection
Sept 26 Shifts begin at 10:00 am, 12:00 Noon, 2:00 pm Cocoa Beach Library
During this crucial time in the debate over health insurance reform we need to ensure that the voices of the Americans who do not accept the status quo are being heard. Join us for a health insurance reform pledge drive where we will be collecting declarations in support of President Obama's health insurance reform principles which include: Reducing Cost, Guaranteeing Choice with public option, and ensuring affordable and quality health insurance for all Americans.
Health Insurance Reform Pledge Drive
Sept 26 Shifts begin at 10:00 am, 12:00 Noon, 2:00 pm Indian River County Main Library, 1600 21st St, Vero Beach
During this crucial time in the debate over health insurance reform we need to ensure that the voices of the Americans who do not accept the status quo are being heard. Join us for a health insurance reform pledge drive where we will be collecting declarations in support of President Obama's health insurance reform principles which include: Reducing Cost, Guaranteeing Choice with public option, and ensuring affordable and quality health insurance for all Americans.
WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA
Big Insurance Is Making America Sick Rally
Sept 22 12:00 Noon BCBS HQ, 4350 Cypress St. W, Tampa
Health care reform rally at Blue Cross/Blue Shield headquarters in Tampa
Write a Letter for Health Reform
Sept 22, 24 12:00 Noon OFA HQ, 1702 14th St, Tampa
Join Organizing for America and members of your community as we write letters to our congress men and women declaring our support for President Obama's health insurance reform.
Needed: TO Get It DONE!
Sept 23 6:00 pm Jack Willie’s Tiki Bar & Grill, 1013 St. Petersburg Dr, Oldsmar
Neighborhood Team organizing meeting.
Health Care Data
Sept 25 6:00 pm Lake Vista Park, 62nd Avenue S & 16th St, St Petersburg
Pass out data at the park, and also in programs at several churches.
Health Care Reform Legislative Forum
Sept 29 1:30-3:00 pm Sarasota Campus of USF 8350 N Tamiami Trail
Public is invited to a community forum panel discussion that will focus on several key questions about Health Care Reform. RSVP not needed. More information: 866-595-7678
Florida Health Action Now Town Hall Meeting
Sept 30 10:00 am JCC, 9841 Scenic Dr, Port Richey
Come to a community conversation on health care reform. Learn how AARP sees the issue developing in Washington, what AARP's role is, and some key concerns that AARP is emphasizing. We then want to hear from you. Handicap accessible. No cost, no RSVP.
Health Reform Information
Oct 10 1:00 pm Town & Country Library, Tampa
We will be passing out information to make people aware of what the Health Reform is all about.... First Hand... They will be able to contact their member of Congress by phone or mail
SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
Let's Get It Done! Canvas for Health Care Reform
Sept 22 9:30 am West Regional Courthouse, intersection of Pine Island and Broward, Plantation
We will be collecting pledges of support for health care reform and asking supporters to write and phone our Senators and Congressman.
Big Insurance: Sick Of It Rally
Sept 22 4:00 pm 13621 NW 12th St., Sunrise
We'll be joining the Broward Moveon Council to rally in front of United Health in Sunrise.
Health Care Reform Cannot Wait!
Sept 23 10:00 am West Regional Courthouse, intersection of Pine Island and Broward, Plantation
Every starting at 10:00 am, - we will be collecting pledges of support for health care reform at the West Regional Courthouse.
Statewide Phonebank: Let's Get It Done
Sept 23 5:00 pm All Broward Realty, 4325 W. Sunrise Blvd, Plantation
We are reaching out to our volunteers via phonebank. Come help OFA and the President "get it done." HEALTH INSURANCE REFORM CAN'T WAIT--2009!!"
Health Care Reform Phone Bank
Sept 23, 30; Oct 7, 14, 21 6:00 pm SEIU, Ste 900 333 W 41ST St
Miami Beach
Let’s Go Miami! Come out to phone bank and show America, Miami Supports health care reform.
Tribute to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy
Sept 24 7:00 pm Cong L' Dor Va-Dor, 7400 Lake Worth Rd, Lake Worth
Join in to emphasize his life work: Universal Health Care
College Reach Out Health Reform
Sept 24 11:00 am Florida Memorial University, 15800 NW 42nd Ave, Miami Gardens
Booths will be set up on the campus of Florida Memorial University. The NAACP College Chapter will man the booth in strategic locations.
Health Reform Phone Booth
Sept 25 12:00 Noon 55th Street Station, Miami
Set up at 55th Street Station between Soyka Restaurant and the News Cafe. Pass out information.
Health Care Reform Cannot Wait!
Sept 25 11:30 am West Regional Courthouse, intersection of Pine Island and Broward, Plantation
We will be collecting pledges of support for health care reform at the West Regional Courthouse. We know it's hot out there, but we're asking you to come out for a couple of hours and help in this effort to ensure that Congress enacts real health care reform this year, - real health care reform that includes the choice of a public insurance option! Let Alan Ehrlich at 954-472-6211 know if you can join us.
Health Care Reform Cannot Wait!
Sept 26 11:00 am West Regional Library, intersection of Pine Island and Broward, Plantation
We will be in front of the West Regional Library for 4 hours to get pledges. We know it's hot out there, but we're asking you to come out for a couple of hours and help in this effort to ensure that Congress enacts real health care reform this year, - real health care reform that includes the choice of a public insurance option! Let Alan Ehrlich at 954-472-6211 know if you can join us.
Pot Luck Brunch and Meet and Greet
Sept 26 10:00 am
Let's all meet on Saturday for a little brunch and some conversation. We'll learn about each other and learn how to get active in the push to get Healthcare Reform passed.
Getting the facts on Health Reform
Sept 26 12:00 Noon Publix Supermarket and Sweetbay Supermarket, 301 and Big Bend Rd, Riverview
Volunteers will stand at supermarkets, strip malls in the Riverview, Florida area and distribute information about the Health Reform Bill and how to contact their US Reps.
OFA & Beach Goers Health Care Reform Support Gathering
Sept 27 9:00 am, 12:00 Noon (2 shifts) Harrison St & Ocean, Hollywood
We will meet in front of Josh's Organic Market and Juice Cafe located on Harrison St and Ocean Dr(directly on Hollywood Beach). We can grab a table, have a delicious juice drink or some fruit as we gather to discuss and organize ourselves to canvass the beach and speak to people about supporting Health Care Reform. We'll gather signatures of support, recruit OFA volunteers, pass out HCR literature with the FACTS on what passing a Public Health Care Option would mean for All Americans! We may consider bringing our own table so we can post signage in support of Health Care Reform.
Health Care Pot Luck Organizing Meeting
Sept 30 6:30 pm Private home, NE Ft. Lauderdale
Come and learn how we can help achieve real health care reform and how to counter the nonsense being put in the media by those who want Obama to fail. This pot luck dinner is being organized by former Obama team leaders, Organizing for America volunteers, and Obama supporters. Bring a dish to share with your neighbors. We will provide cups, plates, napkins, utensils, and beverages.
Senior Citizens for Health Care
Oct 12 11:00 am New Testament Baptist Church of America, 812 N. 7th St , Fort Pierce
Retired seniors for Health Care will meet to familiarize themselves with the particulars of the Obama Health Care Plan so they can educate and help address the concerns of the public in this area.
Port St Lucie Healthcare Canvass
Oct 24 9:00 am Port St Lucie City Hall
We will be going door to door asking people what kind of healthcare reform they would like to see. We will have petitions to sign.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Calling For Change
Sept 22, 24, 29; Oct 1 12:00 Noon OFA, 1924 Park Meadows, Fort Myers
Call others to urge support of the Obama Health Plan. Bring your cell phone to use!
Dog Beach Health Care Reform
Sept 27 10:00 am Bonita Beach Dog Park, Estero Blvd.
Join us at Bonita Beach Dog Park to support President Obama’s health reform plan. Join us in calling our U.S. Senators and Reps to make our voices heard! Bring your dog, pull up a beach chair and together we can make a difference!
YWCH.CCFL Faith Outreach to Support the President's Health Reform
Sept 27 11:00 am TBD, Naples
Please join our YWCH.CCFL Faith Outreach on Sunday mornings (11am-1pm) to enlist petition signatures to support the President's Health Reform for the USA (should you speak Spanish, French and/or Creole, that would be most helpful). Contact ywch.ccfla@gmail.com or 239-692-8201
FLORIDA AUDIO AND WEB EVENTS ON NATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM
NATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM EVENTS & NOTICES
Conference Call on Children and Health Care Reform
Sept 28 4:00-5:00 pm EST
Children's Defense Fund, First Focus and Voices for America's Children, in partnership with the Center on Children and Families, will be hosting another joint call to provide you all with the latest and greatest update on children and health reform. To join the call, please dial 1-866-519-2800, passcode 844827.
OTHER STATE EVENTS & NOTICES
NORTH FLORIDA
Including Prevention in Health Reform: Prospects and Impacts
Proposals Due: Sept 25
Conference: March 4-5 Jacksonville, FL
Save the date and note the location of ACHI's 2010 annual conference. It'll be more hands-on practical and offer more peer-to-peer networking than ever, so stay tuned this summer as details emerge on 2010's premier community health and community benefit professional meeting.
Health Planning Council Annual Meeting
Oct 22 12:00 Noon-2:00 pm Jacksonville Marriott
Join with other health industry leaders and human service professionals as we look at the state of health care throughout the Northeast Florida region. Learn about several exciting new developments at the Council and future plans that will positively impact the communities we serve. Keynote Speaker Laura McCrary, Director of the Kansas City Regional Health Initiative share how Kansas City health and behavioral health providers moved beyond traditional barriers and began to approach systemic changes to improving care in their community. 904-723-2162
2010 Children's Week
April 11-16 Tallahassee
A full week of activities has been posted online.
Notices
CENTRAL FLORIDA
Hispanic Health Initiatives presenta Cuidando Mi Salud
Primer Viernes de Cada Mes 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Oficina de HHI, 218 Live Oaks Blvd, Casselberry
Entérese si usted está en riesgo de presentar enfermedades cardiovasculares, diabetes y/o tipos de cáncer. ¡Llame hoy para su cita! Gratis. Registracion previa es requerida. 407-339-2001 ó 866-377-2583
EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA
WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA
Events
Notices
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
Events
Expanding Access to Cancer Clinical Trials: What will it take, and how can we get there? A discussion on health disparities, access to quality cancer care, and social justice.
Oct 2 10:00-1100 am Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Ctr, Rm 1537, 1475 NW 12th Ave, Miami
Margo Michaels, Executive Director, Education Network to Advance Cancer Clinical Trials (ENACCT), will present the Cancer Disparities and Community Research Quarterly Seminar, sponsored by the Disparities and Community Outreach Core, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. She will also be addressing the FSOSW conference on October 2 from 1:30 - 3:00 pm. For more information about the conference, see www.fsosw.org
Persona A Persona/Peer to Peer Recovery Education Course
Oct 5–Nov 30 (9 consecutive Mondays) 6:30-8:30 pm North Broward Medical Center, 201 E. Sample Rd, Deerfield Beach
National Alliance on Mental Illness of Broward Multicultural Outreach Program (MOP) invites all community agencies and friends to promote and advertise their first Spanish NAMI signature program. The Recovery Course is free to all Spanish speaking participants. It is a unique learning program for people with any mental illness who are interested in establishing and maintaining their health and recovery. Flyers are available in Spanish and English. Contact 954-720-6778 or namimop@hotmail.com.
Health and Hope charity program
Nov 21-22 South Florida Fairgrounds, west of WPB
This event will be run by the nationally known nonprofit group Remote Area Medical Foundation. Organizers expect to give free medical care to 2,500 people a day from across South Florida, but say the number could be higher or lower depending on how many Florida physicians, nurses, dentists and eye doctors sign up to volunteer their services. The RAM group will send tractor-trailers and an airplane filled with supplies, and 30 local agencies and nonprofit groups have agreed to send staffers, run information booths and donate supplies. Doctors and nurses will give basic check-ups and screening tests; dentists will do cleanings, fill cavities and pull teeth; eye specialists will do exams and make free glasses For more information, see www.unitedcancerfoundation.org or call 866-936-2873, or www.ramusa.org
Notices
FLORIDA AUDIO CONFERENCES AND WEBCAST
STATEWIDE NOTICES AND CAMPAIGNS
NATIONAL EVENTS & NOTICES
CONFERENCES AND EVENTS
Assuring Equity through Health and Health Care Reform
Oct 1–2 NY Academy of Medicine, NYC
Sponsored by Albert Einstein College of Medicine
22nd Annual National Academy for State Health Policy Conference
Oct 5-7 Long Beach, CA
Alan Weil, NASHP Executive Director and leading national health policy expert will convene the 22nd Annual State Health Policy Conference at the opening plenary -- A State Policymaker's Guide to Health Reform. He will consider the many ways states can expect to be affected by health reform and offer guidance on how to prepare for the changes to come.
Health Policy Journalism Institute: Covering Health Disparities
Oct 8–9 Las Vegas
National Health Policy Training Alliance for Communities of Color is hosting a day-and-a-half long training for journalists. This training is designed to bring attention to health policy issues that affect communities of color and to ensure that journalists have the tools, resources, and information they need to report on these topics.
Community Benefit 101: The Nuts and Bolts of Planning and Reporting Community Benefit
Oct 13-14 St. Louis
Planning and reporting community benefit are now key functions of Catholic-sponsored and other not-for-profit health care organizations. The Catholic Health Association, the leader in the community benefit field for 20 years, is offering a one-and-a-half day seminar for new community benefit professionals that covers the basics of community benefit programming. Workshop topics include a framework developing and implementing community benefit programs, policies needed to support these programs, and what counts and doesn’t count as community benefit.
Communities Joined in Health Annual Conference
Oct 22–23 Austin, TX
Integrating Community Health: Success in a New Era. Special conference room rate $98 with free internet.
Diversity Matters: An Ongoing Conversation
Nov 2-3 Vancouver, BC
Proposals are currently being accepted for this conference , which is open to professionals, educators, managers, executives, ethicists and researchers in health care, social services, and community service and development; government leaders and policy-makers; as well as consumers and all those interested,. It focuses on cultural competencies in healthcare, education, research and community services. Among keynote speakers, Dr. Roberto Lewis-Fernandez will present on Reduction of Healthcare Disparities Through Cultural Competence: Barriers and Solutions to Consumer Engagement and The Role of Cultural Idioms of Distress in Psychiatric Diagnosis.
Faces of a Healthy Future: National Conference to End Health Disparities II
Nov 3–6 Winston-Salem, NC
The purpose of Faces of a Healthy Future: National Conference to End Health Disparities II is to again bring together representatives from local, regional, state, and national organizations, along with consumers, in a forum addressing the NCMHD and Healthy People 2010 goals through the conference objectives. The goals of Healthy People 2010 are to improve health and to eliminate health disparities. This conference will give the attendees an opportunity to determine progress toward these goals through viewing and assessing projects related to the NCMHD strategic goals (research, research infrastructures and providing public information and community outreach). Individuals and organizations will be given opportunities through poster presentations, oral paper presentations, and panel discussion to detail the success of their projects based on outcomes evidence. This conference will be a call for further action and will capture momentum and move energy forward in assisting with the national planning and implementation to eliminate health disparities.Sponsored by Center for Excellence in the Elimination of Disparities.
American Public Health Association: 137th Annual Meeting and Exposition
Nov 7–11 Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia
Sponsored by American Public Health Association
Overcoming Disparities: Building Successful Diabetes and Obesity Programs
Forum: Nov 18-19 Arlington, VA
Each year, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) convenes its Annual Disparities Partnership Forum. The overall goal of the partnership forum is to explore collaborative methods for decreasing type 2 diabetes and obesity in high-risk populations. To request a submission template and call form, please contact Monique Lindsy at mlindsy@diabetes.org.
AUDIO AND WEB EVENTS
Disparities in Health Care: Hospital Strategies to Reach, Educate, and Care for Diverse Populations
Oct 7 3:00-4:00 pm ET
This free audio-conference highlights the strategies of three hospitals to deal with challenges that contribute to health disparities. Presentations will include approaches to caring for sickle cell patients outside the emergency room, reaching out to Hispanic women for mammography screenings, and providing multiple language services to navigate the health care system throughout the continuum of care. To register for this complimentary audio-conference, simply click here to complete a brief on-line registration form. If you should have any questions, please contact hpoe@aha.org.
Community Benefit Scorecard: Bridging Community and Health System Goals
Oct 15 2:00-3:00 pm ET
A community benefit scorecard elevates the work of community benefit departments by clearly stating the focus, intent, and accountability of key initiatives. This session will describe the process for selecting elements of the scorecard, including linkages between community collaboratives, health system strategic planning, and operational goals. Registration fee $40 members, $80 non-members
NOTICES
CAMPAIGNS & INITIATIVES
Visit the National Health Information Center for a complete list of the 2009 National Health Observances and contact information for resources | |
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September 22, 2009
New listings, in order of submission deadlines
Healthspottr Launches New Fellows Program for Health Innovators
Deadline: Oct 1
Grants of up to $250,000 will be awarded to individuals working in the for-profit, nonprofit, or government sectors to develop innovations that could help transform health care in the United States. An independent committee of industry experts will select the award winners. Candidates will be evaluated for their past accomplishments, as well as for their future potential to make a genuinely innovative contribution to the transformation of healthcare in the United States. Such innovations will be judged by their likely ability to expand access to care and to improve the efficiency and quality of care, within two to five years. The candidate's work or innovation must have immediate application in the U.S. market.
Scholars in Health Policy Research
Deadline: Oct 21
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Scholars in Health Policy Research program is designed to help develop a new generation of creative health policy thinkers and researchers within the disciplines of economics, political science, and sociology. The program invites recent graduates of doctoral programs to apply. Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously worked extensively in health or health policy research. Applicants must have received a doctoral degree after January 1, 2005, but no later than July 2010. Applications are encouraged from candidates who come from groups that historically have been underrepresented in the three disciplines. Scholars will receive stipends from their university of $89,000 a year.
Generations: Strengthening Women and Families Affected by HIV/AIDS
Deadline: Nov 2
The National AIDS Fund and Johnson & Johnson have announced the availability of funds through the Generations: Strengthening Women and Families Affected by HIV/AIDS program. This third grant round will award six to eight grants to community-based organizations to create or adapt evidence-based HIV/AIDS prevention interventions that reduce the spread of HIV among at-risk women and girls. Priority areas include urban epicenters and other highly impacted regions, including Florida. In addition to cash grants, agencies receive support through a number of components, including intensive technical assistance, program evaluation, and community building.
Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment Project Funding for Medically Underserved
Grantwriting workshop: Oct 7
Deadline: Nov 30
The South Florida Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® announces the availability of grant funds for fiscal year 04/01/2010 to 03/31/2011. Applications for breast cancer and breast health programs from nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies and educational institutions in Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties are eligible for funding. In addition to funding research, the Affiliate funds non-duplicative, community-based breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment projects for the medically underserved in Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties. Contact 561-514-3020 ext. 14 or email: tina@komensouthflorida.org.
Commonwealth Fund/Harvard University Fellowship in Minority Health Policy
Application Deadline: Jan 4
This innovative fellowship is designed to prepare physicians, particularly minority physicians, for leadership roles in formulating and implementing public health policy and practice on a national, state, or community level. Five one-year, degree-granting fellowships will be awarded per year. Fellows will complete academic work leading to a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree at the Harvard School of Public Health, and, through additional program activities, gain experience in and understanding of major health issues facing minority, disadvantaged, and underserved populations. For application materials and more information, contact 617-432-2922 or mfdp_cfhuf@hms.harvard.edu
Continuing listings, in order of submission deadlines
RWJF Health & Society Scholars
Deadline: Oct 2
The Scholars program provides two years of support to postdoctoral scholars at all stages of their careers to build the United States' capacity for research and leadership to address the multiple determinants of population health and contribute to policy change. The program is based on the principle that progress in the field of population health depends upon multidisciplinary collaboration and exchange. Up to eighteen scholars will be selected to train at one of six nationally prominent universities. Scholars receive annual stipends of nearly $100,000.
Childhood Obesity Prevention and Treatment Research Consortium
Deadline: Oct 6
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development solicit cooperative agreement grant applications from institutions to conduct randomized controlled trials to test innovative interventions that address issues immediately germane to the childhood obesity epidemic and runs parallel with a separate Funding Opportunity Announcement.
Online Competition to Radically Rethink Mental Health
Application Deadline: Oct 14
Rethinking Mental Health: Improving Community Wellbeing, an online, open source competition co-sponsored by RWJF's Vulnerable Populations Portfolio and Ashoka’s Changemakers, challenges organizations to explore innovations that allow individuals, families, communities and society to move past narrow perceptions and social stigmas of mental health and expand our understanding and collective involvement in finding solutions. awards of $5,000 will be given to three individuals.
Johnson & Johnson/Society for the Arts in Healthcare Grant Funds Available for Arts in Healthcare Programs
Letter of Inquiry Deadline: Oct 15
A total of $60,000 will be awarded to nonprofits and government agencies that are members of the Society for the Arts in Healthcare and whose arts in healthcare programs show evidence of initial impact.
CVS Caremark Community Grants Program Accepting Grant Applications for Programs Serving Children With Disabilities and the Uninsured
Deadline: Oct 31
Grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to nonprofits and schools working to provide disabled children and youth under age 21 with health and rehabilitation programs and active play opportunities alongside their non-disabled peers.
The Humana Foundation
Proposals accepted: Nov 1-June 15
The Humana Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in communities where the company has facilities in states including Florida. The Foundation is committed to serving the needs of children, families, and seniors in their quest to build healthier lives and communities. Special consideration is given to proposals that focus on the following areas: health and fitness efforts that lead to better lifestyles; literacy activities that lead to improved health experiences; and the development of technology, tools, and resources that lead to healthy communities.
Dade Community Foundation
Deadline: Nov 15
Grants will be awarded in broad fields of education, health, human services, arts and culture, environment, economic and community development. Priority will be given to programs or projects that use community relationships as a key strategy for enhancing their reach, effectiveness, and results; build relationships, particularly among diverse ethnic and racial groups; reach and engage those whose needs are not being met adequately by existing community resources; pursue strategies that address new and emerging needs or approach existing ones more effectively; strengthen organizational capacity to improve results for communities and individuals they serve; build on strengths and assets of people and communities and engage them in problem solving; focus on the root causes of a problem; and leverage additional private or public resources, both financial and volunteer. For more information, contact 305-371-2711.
Frueauff Foundation
Deadline: Dec 15
The Frueauff Foundation supports mental health services, organizations serving at-risk youth and other community programs. Since its founding, hospitals and health agencies have been recipients of Foundation awards. Equipment, outreach programs, staff positions, screening and education materials are just a few examples of grants given. Health education programs for at-risk children and their parents, support for the critically ill, AIDS/HIV education programs, and nursing scholarships have all received awards in the past decade. Specific institutions and specific programs, rather than national organizations, are usually given.
Nominations Open for 2010 Purpose Prize Honoring Older Social Innovators
Deadline: March 5
Five awards of $100,000 each will be given to people over the age of 60 working in a leadership capacity to address societal challenges in the United States or abroad.
Department of Health and Human Services Understanding and Promoting Health Literacy (R21)
Letters of Intent Receipt Date(s): December 24, 2009
Application Submission/Receipt Date(s): 25, 2010
NIOSH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings
Application Deadline: May 8, 2011
The purpose of the program is to support high quality conferences/scientific meetings that are relevant to its scientific mission and to the public health.
Innovating Worthy Projects Foundation
Requests are accepted from Jan 1 through Aug 31
The Innovating Worthy Projects Foundation provides support to nonprofit organizations throughout the United States that are dedicated to providing direct care or services for children with special needs, acute illnesses, or chronic disabilities. Preference is given to small organizations that might not otherwise be helped. Grants support new ideas and approaches to providing services as well as equipment purchases.
Advancing technology to improve healthcare sevices: Verizon Foundation
Applications accepted: Jan 1 through Nov 30
The mission of the Verizon Foundation is to improve education, literacy, family safety, and healthcare by addressing Verizon's commitment to deliver technology that touches life. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that benefit communities in the locations the company serves within the United States. One of the Foundation’s priority categories is Education and Literacy, with emphasis on innovative, technology-based approaches to literacy and K-12 education. In addition, through the Safety and Health category, the Foundation supports initiatives that contribute to the safety and well-being of families, with emphasis on domestic violence prevention and technology for healthcare and healthcare accessibility.
Chronic Illness Self-Management in Children and Adolescents
Multiple Closing Dates, Jan 10, 2010
The purpose of this Funding Opportunity Announcement is to solicit research to improve self-management and quality of life in children and adolescents with chronic illnesses. Biobehavioral studies of children in the context of family and family-community dynamics are encouraged. Children diagnosed with a chronic illness and their families have a long-term responsibility for self-management. The child with the chronic illness will have a life-long responsibility to maintain and promote health and prevent complications. Research related to biological/ technological factors, as well as, sociocultural, environmental, and behavioral mechanisms that contribute to successful and ongoing self-management of chronic illnesses in children is also encouraged.
Occupational Safety and Health Research
Application Deadline: March 6, 2010
The purpose of this grants program is to develop an understanding of the risks and conditions that are associated with occupational diseases and injuries, to explore methods for reducing risks and for preventing or minimizing exposure to hazardous conditions in the workplace, and to translate significant scientific findings into prevention practices and products that will effectively reduce work-related illnesses and injuries.
Planning Grant for Oral Health Promotion across the Life Span (R21)
Closing date for applications: May 7, 2010, Multiple deadlines
This funding opportunity announcement (FOA) is intended to encourage and support meritorious oral health promotion research directed at improving oral health and preventing diseases and/or their sequelae across the lifespan.
Community Participation Research Targeting the Medically Underserved (R01)
Expiration Date: May 15, 2010
The ultimate goal of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) with a special review issued by the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), National Institutes of Health (NIH) is to solicit Research Project Grant (R01) applications that propose research on health promotion, disease prevention, and health disparities that is jointly conducted by communities and researchers and targets medically underserved areas (MUAs) and medically underserved populations (MUPs) as defined by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
Community Participation Research Targeting the Medically Underserved (R21)
Expiration Date: May 15, 2010
The ultimate goal of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), National Institutes of Health (NIH) is to solicit Exploratory/Developmental (R21) grant applications that propose research on health promotion, disease prevention, and health disparities that is jointly conducted by communities and researchers and targets medically underserved areas (MUAs) and medically underserved populations (MUPs) as defined by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
NIOSH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings
Deadline: May 8, 2011
The purpose of the program is to support high quality conferences/scientific meetings that are relevant to its scientific mission and to the public health.
Community Participation in Research (R01)
Expiration Date: May 8, 2011
This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), National Institutes of Health (NIH) solicits R01 grant applications that propose intervention research on health promotion, disease prevention, and health disparities that communities and researchers jointly conduct.
The Effect of Racial and Ethnic Discrimination/Bias on Health Care Delivery (R01)
The Effect of Racial and Ethnic Discrimination/Bias on Health Care Delivery (R21)
The Effect of Racial and Ethnic Discrimination/Bias on Health Care Delivery (R03)
Expiration Date: May 8, 2011
Grant applications are encouraged from institutions/ organizations that propose to: (1) improve the measurement of racial /ethnic discrimination in health care delivery systems through improved instrumentation, data collection, and statistical/analytical techniques; (2) to enhance understanding of the influence of racial/ethnic discrimination in health care delivery and its association with disparities in disease incidence, treatment, and outcomes among disadvantaged racial/ethnic minority groups; and (3) to reduce the prevalence of racial/ethnic health disparities through the development of interventions to reduce the influence of racial/ethnic discrimination on health care delivery systems in the United States.
Exploratory/Developmental Grants Program for Basic Cancer Research in Cancer Health Disparities
Deadline: Nov 23, 2011
Through this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), the Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities (CRCHD) and the Division of Cancer Biology (DCB), at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), invite grant applications from investigators interested in conducting basic research studies into the causes and mechanisms of cancer health disparities.
Translational Research for the Prevention and Control of Diabetes and Obesity
Deadline: March 1, 2012
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR) encourage NIH Research Demonstration and Dissemination Project grant (R18) applications from institutions/ organizations to test the effectiveness of interventions for the prevention and control of diabetes and obesity that have a high potential to be adopted, and sustained in applied health care settings.
Research on Clinical Decision-Making in People with or at-Risk for Life-Threatening Illnesses
Application Deadline: May 7, 2012
This funding opportunity seeks to stimulate research on the decision-making processes made by persons at risk for and those faced with life-threatening illness. These illnesses are ones that almost always lead to death in a fairly short period of time if left untreated, but may be chronic or even cured if dealt with early in the disease process. Decision-making can occur from the point of adopting preventive behaviors through the end of life.
Community-Based Partnerships for Childhood Obesity Prevention and Control: Research to Inform Policy
Deadline: May 7, 2012
The purpose of this FOA, issued by the NICHD, is to enhance childhood obesity research by fostering the formation of local, state, or regional teams consisting of researchers, policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders (e.g., community representatives, public health practitioners or officials, educators) in order to identify research questions and hypotheses, design and implement the relevant research, and translate the research into evidence relevant to potential policy efforts in this area.
Cancer Surveillance Using Health Claims-based Data System
Deadline: May 7, 2012
This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), issued by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), encourages grant applications for research entailing the use of health claims data for cancer surveillance. Cancer surveillance may include assessment of patterns of care, quality, and outcomes of care, and health disparities across the continuum of treatment.
2009 Aetna Foundation Regional Community Investment Programs
Various Deadlines
Information regarding the Regional Community Grants Program and Healthy Community Outreach Program including funding categories, schedule, target markets, and the online application process is now available on the Aetna Foundation website.
Ben & Jerry’s Foundation
Ongoing deadline for Letters of Interest
The Ben & Jerry's Foundation offers competitive grants to not-for-profit, grassroots organizations throughout the United States which facilitate progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems. Grant applicants need to demonstrate that their projects will lead to societal, institutional and/or environmental change; address the root causes of social or environmental problems; and lead to new ways of thinking and acting. Awards are granted ranging from $1,001 - $15,000.
Nathan Cummings Foundation
Letters of inquiry may be submitted at any time
The Nathan Cummings Foundation is rooted in the Jewish tradition and committed to democratic values and social justice, including fairness, diversity, and community. The Foundation seeks to build a socially and economically just society that values nature and protects the ecological balance for future generations, promotes humane health care, and fosters arts and culture that enrich communities. An additional goal is to strengthen the capacity of the Jewish community to work for social and economic justice, both in the United States and Israel. Funding priority is given to projects that have an impact at the state, multi-state, or national level.
Kresge Foundation Grantmaking Programs in Health and Environment
Deadline: Open
Both the Health and Environment Programs address health and environment-related social issues, particularly those affecting minority, low-income, and other underserved communities.
United Health Foundation - Health Services Programs Supported Nationwide
Deadline: Open
United Health Foundation works to improve health outcomes for all Americans. Support is provided to nonprofit organizations that serve the health needs of people and communities throughout the US. The Foundation's priorities are: to enhance the quality of health and medical care services by providing reliable, scientifically-based information to support decisions made by health professionals, communities, and individuals; and to expand access to medical care and health-related services for individuals and families who live in challenging circumstances. Grants generally range from $1,000 to $50,000.
Educational Foundation of America
Rolling Acceptance
The mission of the Educational Foundation of America is to improve individual lives and surroundings through education and awareness, in hopes of bettering humanity and the world we inhabit. The Foundation provides grants to progressive nonprofit organizations throughout the United States that offer specific programs with broad impact. The Foundation’s areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the environment, reproductive freedom, theatre, education, medicine, drug policy reform, democracy, peace and national security issues, and human services. Online letters of inquiry are accepted at any time through the website listed above.
Johnson Foundation: Wingspread Conferences
Letters of inquiry accepted at any time.
The mission of the Johnson Foundation is to cultivate ideas that sustain community – people living in harmony with one another and their environment. The Foundation pursues this mission through Wingspread Conferences, small meetings of thoughtful inquiry convened in an atmosphere of candor and purpose. The Foundation co-sponsors conferences with nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, or government agencies that work in the following areas: education, media, family, democracy and community, and sustainable development and the environment. The conferences are held at Wingspread, the Foundation's headquarters and educational conference center located near Racine, WI.
Fulbright Scholar Award
Multiple deadlines
Applications continue to be accepted for some Fulbright Scholar awards for lecturing, research or combined lecturing/research awards in public health during the 2008-2009 academic year. Faculty and professionals in public health may apply for awards specifically in their field, as well as one of the many "All Discipline" awards open to any field.
Ladder to Leadership: Developing the Next Generation of Community Health Leaders
Application deadline: Varies
Ladder to Leadership: Developing the Next Generation of Community Health Leaders is a collaborative initiative of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Center for Creative Leadership. The initiative aims to enhance the leadership capacity of community-based nonprofit health organizations serving vulnerable populations. It will develop critical leadership competencies for 270 early- to mid-career professionals through an innovative, sixteen-month leadership development curriculum
Build-A-Bear Workshop Foundation Community Improvement Programs
Applications accepted throughout the year.
Provides support to nonprofit organizations that improve communities and positively impact lives. The grantmaking emphasis is on programs that help children and families, animals, or the environment. Average grant $2,500.
Donors Forum of South Florida on-line database
The new online searchable Donors Forum of South Florida database has up-to-date information about funders in South Florida. This resource— which is also available in hard copy — presents continuously updated information about the giving interests and procedures of funders with a track record of investing in the South Florida area and working collaboratively with others. To order, email leot@donorsforumsf.org or call 305/371-7944.
Directory Of Health Policy Fellowships
This Kaiser directory contains new listings for undergraduates, graduate students and professionals searching for summer, school-year, or post-doctoral positions. | |
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Note: Items in brown are related to health care reform.
NEW SECTION: Health Care Reform Resources
Florida
National
Organizations and Services
New: Florida
New: National
Continued Listings: Florida
Manuals, Guides and Toolkits
New: Florida
New: National
Continued Listings: Florida
Technology and Audio Visual Materials
Media Programming
Web Sites, Web Features
New: Florida
New: National
Continued Listings: Florida
Webinars, Audio, Videos and Films: Web, Rent/Purchase. Theater
Periodicals and Books
Reports and Studies
NEW SECTION: New Health Care Reform Reports
New: Florida Reports
New: National
NEW SECTION: Continued Listings: Health Care Reform Reports
Continued Listings: Florida Reports
HEALTH CARE REFORM RESOURCES
Florida Health Care Reform Resources
Health Action Now Florida Group
AARP’s Florida Health Action Now group is up and running. Please visit and join. Site goers will discover first-hand information about Site goers will discover first-hand information about health care reform, Medicare, myths and facts and other pertinent AARP information.
Florida SEIU Health Care Reform Database
Florida SEIU invites organizations and individuals to enter their information in a Community Partners database for health care reform efforts.
National Health Care Reform Resources
Paying for Better Care: A Consumer Advocate’s Reference Guide to Payment Reform
provides clear information about some of the most complex concepts of how we pay for health care. It also provides guidance on evaluating payment reform proposals to ensure that they promote: Improved health outcomes, Increased reliance on primary care, Improved care coordination, Greater provider accountability to patients and communities, Patient-centered care that adjusts for unique needs and circumstances, Increased education and empowerment for patients and their families, Greater transparency on how providers are paid and the quality of care they offer. This report helps consumer advocates understand how the current fee-for-service payment model has contributed to escalating costs and lower quality care, what the alternative payment models are and how to evaluate them, and what roles advocates might play in crafting consumer-friendly payment reform nationally or in their states. Read this report and others in the series here. (August 2009, Community Catalyst)
HealthReform.org
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has launched to provide timely, nonpartisan information and tools to inform policymakers about the need to reform our ailing health care system. Add the HealthReform.org widget to your social networking page or Web site. This widget feeds the day’s top health reform news clips and The Users’ Guide to the Health Reform Galaxy blog entries. Sign up to have the Daily Health Reform News Digest sent directly to your inbox. Check out The Users’ Guide to the Health Reform Galaxy blog. Learn about new and noteworthy research, data and expert commentary.Access real-time policy analysis. (RWJF)
www.WhiteHouse.gov/realitycheck
has been launched to knock down the rumors and lies that are floating around the internet. You can find the information below, and much more, there. Recent additions include a video of Nancy-Ann DeParle from the Health Reform Office tackling a viral email head on.
Pretty Short Summary of the 3 House Committees Health Care Reform Bills
One-pager about how ealth insurance would be provided through (1) employers; (2) a national insurance exchange; or (3) an expanded Medicaid program. Most aspects of the legislation will take effect starting in 2013.
(August 2009, Coalition on Human Needs)
10 Reasons to Support Health Care Reform
Even though key decisions are still being made, it is clear we have gained significant ground. There is much to be excited about in these proposals: Millions more people will gain health insurance, coverage will be more affordable, and people will have access to the health services they need. These provisions will improve the lives of millions of Americans and give us the peace of mind that comes with knowing that we have coverage no matter what. But the road ahead will not be easy. We must continue to work for improvements and we must ensure that we do not lose the gains we have made so far—they are worth fighting for. Below are some highlights in the health care reform proposals. (Families USA)
The Truth About Immigrants in Health Care Reform
One-page handout. Opponents of health reform are using immigration as one of their wedge issues to take down health reform for partisan political gain by making false claims regarding immigrants. They provide only empty criticism and offer no solutions to the real problem of working families not having access to quality, affordable health care. The Truth is that the current health reform proposals are not comprehensive enough to appropriately address the health needs of America’s diverse population. For instance, numerous barriers remain to affordable health care for immigrants of all statuses. (National Immigration Law Center)
Families USA Advocate Tip: Respond to Attacks on Reform
Use these useful tips and tactics to make sure your local town hall stays civil and under control.
Cover the Uninsured Weekly News Digest
is currently in its seventh year of providing health coverage advocates and activists from across the United States with leading newspaper editorials, articles and columnist op-eds. This year, as America continues a once-in-a-generation national conversation on health reform, RWJF has expanded its health and health care e-mail products to give you more flexibility than ever to customize the topics, frequency of updates and delivery format that work best for you. We'll also be making a few slight changes to some existing products. You can automatically import stories to your blog, Web page or social networking site either through the Cover the Uninsured Widget or by signing up for the RSS Feed. And, for those who prefer daily e-mail clips or updates on other aspects of health care, RWJF offers the Health Reform Daily Clips as well as subject-specific Content Alerts to inform you of interesting research and studies. Register for these and other e-mails (or update your existing selections) by visiting RWJF.org’s E-mail Subscription page.
Kaiser Updates Interactive Health Reform Comparison Tool To Reflect Latest Congressional Action
KFF has updated its interactive side-by-side health reform comparison tool. The online tool allows users to compare any of 12 different major health reform plans, including the House Tri-Committee legislation and the Senate HELP Committee legislation. The comparison tool and many other resources are available on the Foundation’s health reform gateway page, available at, which serves as a clearinghouse of key information, news and analysis about national health reform efforts. Among the resources found there are briefs on key reform concepts and the Foundation’s research and analysis on key issues in health reform, webcasts of reporters-only briefings with key congressional leaders, Kaiser’s polling data, analysis, and news summaries, an editorially independent health policy news service established by the Foundation.
HHS Releases State-Specific Online Reports Highlighting Need for Reform
HHS has released a series of state-specific reports on the “health care status quo,” which she said highlight the urgent need for health reform. The reports include data such as the rising cost of health coverage and the uninsured, and the impact of failing to adequately invest in disease prevention. (6/26/09, DHHS)
Webcast: Will Health Reform Limit Patients' Choices?
How might health reform affect our choices? How could health information technology help us make more intelligent choices? How much choice do we really have now? How much choice do we need? These questions were recently addressed by health policy experts at a National Press Club briefing sponsored by the Alliance for Health Reform and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The briefing provided reporters with access to experts and non-partisan research that will continue to inform the reform debate. Panelists included:Uwe Reinhardt, Ph.D., a health economist at Princeton University;Joe Antos, Ph.D., a health economist at the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research in Washington;Daniel Callahan, Ph.D., a medical ethicist and co-founder of The Hastings Center in New York State; andFormer Congressman Tony Coelho, chair of the Partnership to Improve Patient Care.
Universal Coverage and Access: Critical to Achieving Health Equity
Congressional briefing powerpoint presentation by Ron Pollack. (5/27/09, Families USA)
RAND COMPARE
Rand Corporation’s COMPARE Initiative provides information and tools to help policymakers, the media, and other interested parties understand, design and evaluate health policies. Site includes policy options and analysis, and “HOT” legislation page.
Access Denied video
Accidents Happen video
Children’s Defense Fund encourages all to view and share these videos depicting the importance of health coverage for all children.
I'm fighting for health care reform because... (finish the sentence)
Health care reform isn’t about numbers and statistics – it’s about real problems that people face each day. Sharing your experience can help make complex policy issues understandable for leaders in Washington. Every single one of us -- especially in this tumbling economy -- has either been personally affected by the health care crisis or has a loved one, coworker, friend, or neighbor who has suffered. Families USA wants to hear your story. Sharing is simple -- we've created an easy-to-use tool, so all you have to do is finish the sentence below. Once you’ve given your reason, check back often. Your comments may appear on our site, and we may contact you to ask if we can share your story with members of Congress.
RWJF Health Care Consumer Confidence Index
The inaugural report (June 2009) of the new monthly RWJF Index has been released online. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation launched a new research tool: the RWJF Health Care Consumer Confidence Index (RWJF Index). The first of its kind, the RWJF Index will provide a monthly snapshot of Americans’ attitudes about health care. Analysis of the data is being provided by the University of Minnesota’s State Health Access Data Assistance Center (SHADAC). The RWJF Index has begun during this critical moment in the health reform debate to serve as a valuable measurement in the months to come, helping with understanding of how changes in the health care system affect the average health care consumer. These monthly data points can be used to make the case for health reform and position the issue in a broader context.
Health Affairs and RWJF Health Policy Briefs
Health Affairs and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation are pleased to announce a new series of Health Policy Briefs aimed at providing clear, accessible overviews of timely and important health policy topics. The first brief explores the current debate over cutting payments to Medicare Advantage plans - the privately run health plans that now serve almost a quarter of Medicare enrollees. Health Policy Briefs will be available at no cost on the Health Affairs Web site, and you may sign up to be alerted to new briefs by email or RSS feed. The briefs will also be available via a direct website link.
Community Catalyst Timeline for State Advocacy Work
Community Catalyst is looking ahead to some of the major opportunities for state advocacy on national health reform in the coming months. The timeline some of the major Congressional activities in the health reform debate and suggested ways for state advocates to be involved and engaged. During these months and beyond, Community Catalyst will continue to provide our partners with alerts, updates, message points, and analyses.
The Healthcare Equality Project
The Healthcare Equality Project (HEP) is a national partnership between community-based and nationwide organizations, faith networks, labor groups, and advocates working together to achieve comprehensive health care reform and health care equality. Its goal is to ensure that health care reform efforts go beyond simply expanding coverage and become an engine for reducing disparities that plague women and racial, ethnic, and other minorities. Its mission is to ensure that the health care reform that is enacted works for everyone. HEP has four specific goals that are designed to build a grassroots and advocacy campaign around health care reform: 1) to develop a public education and advocacy campaign to build awareness of health care disparities among racial and ethnic minorities across the nation; 2) to work with key congressional members to achieve necessary health care reform; 3) to develop and promote policies that address health care disparities; and 4) to strengthen the national network of health care equality advocates, including national organizations, faith-based groups, and student groups.
RWJF Daily News Digest on Health Reform!
Having the right information at the right time is an essential step in changing health care policy and practice for the better. To further this goal, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has launched its first ever Daily News Digest. This new service, focused on health reform, is a comprehensive daily look at what’s happening in the mainstream media, policy press and the blogosphere. Sign up to have this useful resource delivered to your inbox.
Webcast: Health Insurance Exchanges: See How They Run
looks at insurance exchanges and examines the following questions: What is meant by a health insurance exchange, and how might it work? Who would be allowed to seek coverage through the exchange? What rules would govern the conduct of plans offering coverage? What’s in it for the consumer?
Senate Finance Committee Hosts Three Roundtables to Discuss Key Elements of Health Care Reform: Delivery System, Coverage, and Financing
Between April and May, Senate Finance Committee (SFC) Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) and Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-IA) hosted a series of three roundtable discussions on health care reform. The roundtable topics covered the health care delivery system, coverage, and financing. These roundtables were intended to encourage discussion between SFC members and health care policy and industry experts. They were also intended to inform the development of a comprehensive health care reform bill later this summer. Soon after each roundtable, the SFC released a policy paper detailing options for addressing each issue. The three roundtables were open to the public, and webcasts and the three policy papers are available on the Finance Committee Web site at www.finance.senate.gov.
ORGANIZATIONS AND SERVICES
New: Florida Organizations and Services
New: National
Continued Listings: Florida
Health Insurance Resource Center has been providing consumers with health insurance information and navigation advice since 1984. They include special resources for Florida at http://www.healthinsurance.org/florida
Insurance claim denied? Here's where to get help
Florida Office of Insurance Regulation: Investigates complaints against insurers, including denials of claims. Online: floir.com Phone: 1-877-693-5236
Subscriber Assistance Program: Reviews disputes between individuals and their managed-care plans. Online: fdhc.state.fl.us/MCHQ/Consumer/SPSAP/ Phone: 1-888-419-3456
Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders, SHINE: Helps consumers navigate the Medicare appeals process. Online: floridashine.org Phone: 1-800-963-5337
Medicare Rights Center: National group helps Medicare clients understand their rights and benefits. Online: medicarerights.org Phone: 1-800-333-4114
Florida Legal Services: Free help for low-income adults denied prescription-drug coverage from Medicaid or Medicare Part D. Online: floridalegal.org Phone: 1-800-436-6001
Medicare Access Network of Florida
Do you know of any Medicare Part D beneficiaries who have questions about their plan? If so, feel free to direct them to one of the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) free counseling sites for help that are located throughout Broward and Miami-Dade. To make an appointment, or for questions, call the Elder Helpline at 1-800-96-ELDER (1- 800-963-5337).
South Florida Smoking Cessation Programs
South Florida Cancer Control Collaborative has also started a list of smoking cessation links. Click here to view the list.
(Florida) Hispanic Health Initiatives
In Florida, almost half of the 3 million uninsured adults are Hispanic. Central Florida has continued to see the rates of the uninsured increase and the availability of culturally competent services decrease. One agency, Hispanic Health Initiatives, Inc (HHI), is the only health services facility in Central Florida created to specifically address the needs of the Hispanic community. Since its inception in June of 2000, this volunteer-driven, community-based organization has worked to connect medically underserved families with free or low-cost health care services. Read more.
The Florida Discount Drug Card
is designed to lower the cost of prescriptions for Florida residents who are 60 and older and without prescription drug coverage or who fall into the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage gap; OR under age 60, without prescription drug coverage, and with an annual family income of less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Qualifying incomes include those below: $30,636 (individual); $41,076 (family of two); $61,956 (family of four). It can give eligible participants a discount on virtually all drugs and be used at all participating pharmacies.
Florida Relay Service 711
The Florida Relay Service is the communications link for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf/Blind, or Speech Impaired. Through the Florida Relay Service, people who use specialized telephone equipment can communicate with people who use standard telephone equipment. To call Florida Relay, dial 7-1-1, or use the appropriate toll free numbers: 800-955-8771 (TTY); 800-955-8770 (Voice); 800-955-1339 (ASCII); 877-955-8260 (VCO-Direct); 877-955-5334 (STS); 877-955-8773 (Spanish); 877-955-8707 (French Creole) In emergencies, Relay users should call 9-1-1 directly or the emergency services center in their community. Note: 711 can't be accessed from many buildings with a switchboard system because the PBX system won't recognize it, and consumers need to dial 1-800-955-8771 from them. Florida Relay customer service is available 24 hours a day 365 days a year: 1-800-676-3777 (English); 1-800-676-4290 (Spanish)
Southeast Florida Cancer Control Collaborative (SFCCC)
SFCCC works to reduce the cancer burden and cancer disparities in Southeast Florida, including Broward, Indian River, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties. The SFCCC includes representatives from more than 60 public and private organizations, agencies and health care providers, as well as cancer survivor and advocacy groups. SFCCC aims to increase awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment among populations at high risk. The Collaborative meets quarterly at various locations in the region.
MANUALS, GUIDES, TOOLKITS
New: Florida
New: National
Free Back to School KidCare Materials from Cover the Uninsured
While so many local organizations and activists across the country are engaged in the federal health reform debate, many are also continuing to enroll eligible uninsured children into low-cost and free health care coverage programs--and we want to help. Bookmarks, lapel stickers and information cards are available for order and distribution throughout your community and at your Back-to-School events and activities. Place your order today! You can also register events to get the word out and download free planning materials, including: Health and Enrollment Fair Planning Guide, Guide to School Based Outreach, Guide to Working with the Media, templates, toolkits and guides and more.
Continued Listings: Florida
TECHNOLOGY AND AUDIO/VIDEO RESOURCES
Media Programming
Web Sites, Web Features & Databases
New: Florida Listings
New: National
Continued Listings: Florida
Florida CHARTS New Interactive Community Maps Application
This application displays maps for births, deaths, fetal and infant deaths and U.S. Census data. All data is displayed at the census tract level. Users may choose to display quartiles based on all Florida census tracts or calculate results for only one county’s data. The maps also have the tables for the indicator data and census tract reports. There’s a users’ guide on the web page. You can view maps that show the distribution of deaths (numbers, not rates) from cancer and for selected cancer sites – for the state or by county. Under the “births” section, it has the percentage of births to women who smoke. The census data is still from the 2000 census or before (ok for areas that haven’t experienced much change).
Tobacco-Free Business Florida
Tobacco-Free Florida has created a new satellite website for businesses. The site has posters that can be downloaded to display at workplaces, as well as a pledge to be tobacco free. If the business takes the pledge, they are automatically entered to win a $500 giftcard for an employee lunch! The phone number for the state's toll free tobacco cessation quitline, Florida Quit-for-Life Line, is 1- 877-U-CAN-NOW.
Updated Hospital & Health Plan Data on Florida Health Finder
The Agency for Health Care Administration announced the release of updated health plan quality and hospital inpatient data on Florida Health FinderConsumers can access and compare the most recent quality of care and patient satisfaction measures for Florida HMOs and PPOs. In addition, the website now contains hospital inpatient data for July 2007 through July 2008. The most current Hospital Financial Data Book is also available, showing an analysis of hospital financial results for fiscal years ending in 2007.
Kids Count
Annie E. Casey Foundation recently updated its online database, , which contains state-, city-, and now community-level data for more than 100 measures of child well-being. This database can generate custom reports for specific geographic areas and compare them based on a particular topic (for example, poverty, education, and health/health insurance).
Florida Census Data
Here is a very helpful link to a map of Florida that has each county hyperlinked to its US Census data, including: racial/ethnic populations, education level, income, federal dollars they receive, etc.
Updates to www.FloridaHealthFinder.gov Website
AHCA has announced a major redesign of this site and the addition of a new hospice comparison tool. The site contains interactive tools that give Floridians the opportunity to compare pricing and performance for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, emergency rooms, health plans, nursing homes, and pricing on prescription drugs. The easy to use website provides health outcome information for over 150 conditions and procedures in Florida’s health care facilities and is linked to an extensive health care encyclopedia.
statehealthfacts.org
This web site recently added new data on Medicaid, CHIP and Medicare. New data from the Congressional Research Service on CHIP enrollment and projected federal allocations have been added for all states and the nation. In addition, data on the distribution of enrollment in CHIP by family income level for fiscal year 2008 and the projected federal CHIP allotments under the CHIP Reauthorization Act for FY 2009 are available for all states and the nation. Statehealthfacts.org also added new data from HHS and the Government Accountability Office about temporary federal Medicaid relief provided by the federal economic stimulus plan to states from October 2008 through March 2009, along with the total estimated federal stimulus allocations to each state through December 2010. The Web site also added new data from an analysis by the Urban Institute and the Foundation's Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured of 2005 CMS data on dual eligibles. The new data include Medicaid spending for dual eligibles by service, Medicaid spending per dual eligible, dual eligibles as a percent of total Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and the distribution of dual eligible enrollment.
SHADAC Launches Redesigned State Health Access Assistance Web Site
The new RWJF Web site gives users easy access to research and resources related to issues of health insurance coverage, data collection methods and state health policy.
Florida Medicaid Reform Evaluation Project
The website provides information on the evaluation and access to key publications, talks, and presentations produced by the MRE team. The University of Florida (is conducting a five-year evaluation of the state’s Medicaid Reform Demonstration Project under a contract with AHCA, Florida’s state agency for health policy and planning. The evaluation will be conducted over the period of Florida’s Section 1115 Medicaid demonstration waiver (July 1, 2006 – June 30, 2010), as approved by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by the Department of Health Services Research, Management and Policy at UF. The overall objective is to assess whether Florida's Medicaid Reform accomplishes its stated objectives of delivering quality healthcare services while achieving better health outcomes and enrollee satisfaction at a more predictable lower cost. For further information, contact (352) 273-6073 or mre@phhp.ufl.edu
Florida's Community and Migrant Health Centers Brochure UPDATED 9/07
A low literacy brochure describing services offered at Florida's CHCs with a map of all CHC locations and phone numbers. English Brochure Spanish Brochure Haitian Creole Brochure
First Steps: A Guide for Parents of Young Children with Developmental Disabilities
Florida Developmental Disabilities Council’s most popular publication ever has been revised and updated with critical info for any parent or family member of a young child with a developmental disability. The publication is a reliable source of info for parents at the beginning of a new journey. They will learn a new vocabulary, discover advocacy skills they never knew they had, and meet new people who will become important in their life as friends, teachers, doctors, therapists and caregivers. This is a valuable tool to help guide parents in the initial steps of their journey as well as a resource they can visit again and again as they, their child and their families grow through the coming years together. The publication is available in both English and Spanish, as well as in a full color version and a black and white version – both are in Acrobat Reader format (PDF) and available in two sections – Chapters 1 to 5 and Chapters 6 to 10 – for your convenience downloading the publications.
Florida Health News, free online non-profit news service
The Florida Health Policy Center has announced the launch of an independent, free, non-profit news service: Florida Health News Inc. FHN will post health-related stories reported around the state, highlight the Florida impact of national stories, and track state health legislation. The news service also will feature original coverage of major health policy developments and a free Monday-through-Friday news service. You can visit the site and subscribe to the e-mail news service by clicking on the link: www.FloridaHealthNews.org. To send your comments, story tips and news of conferences and other events, or get more information, contact pat.curtis@floridahealthnews.org or 850/556-1668.
Florida Health Insurance Coverage of Children 0-18 (2004-2005)
Kaiser Family Foundation has released information about this on-line resource.
Florida Association of Community Health Centers (FACHC)
The following resources have recently been added to the FACHC web site:
Short Assessment of Health Literacy for Spanish-speaking Adults (SAHLSA-50) A new health literacy test than can be used to screen for low health literacy among Spanish speakers.
Health Coverage and Access to Care for Hispanics in "New Growth Communities" and "Major Hispanic Centers" A 2006 Report from the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured
Spanish Language Mental Health Manual for Health Promoters Developed by the California- Mexico Bi-National Health Initiative.
Florida Health Care Website for Consumers
A new Web site for Florida health-care consumers officially launches today, courtesy of the Florida Hospital Association. The site offers links to information on doctors, hospitals and health-care plans as well as checklists to help consumers ask the right questions. It is intended largely as a portal to other, established sites. There are links to sites for Florida's Agency for Health Care Administration, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, among others.
State of Florida Health Care Consumer Websites
The recently expanded FloridaCompareCare.gov aims to improve care and reduce costs by giving citizens the tools to compare outcomes and prices between health care providers and medical services. Through this website one can see data on certain conditions and procedures related to quality of care, pricing and performance at the state’s hospitals and ambulatory (outpatient) surgery centers. In 2005, Florida became the first state to publicly report infection and mortality rates in each hospital. In July 2006, Florida became the first state to publicly report separate pediatric quality of care data. In addition, adult data can now be broken out specific to ages 65 and over. Additional new breakdowns include types of facilities.
FloridaHealthStat.com provides health care information to assist consumers, health care professionals, and researchers in making well-informed health care decisions and in researching the status of health care in Florida. MyFloridaRx.com provides consumers with the retail prices of the most commonly used prescribed drugs by pharmacy across Florida. For questions or comments regarding any of Florida’s consumer websites, contact 850/922-7036.
Medicaid Applications Online 24/7 and in Neighborhoods
Local partners can direct families to their area sites or online to apply for Medicaid and other benefits. The Web Application is generally preferable as the data makes it into the Florida system more quickly and there is a reduced chance of data entry errors.
Florida KidCare Applications can be completed online
Website Offers Free 24 Hour Health Information to Floridians to address concerns and inquiries
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) Secretary encourages health care consumers to visit www.FLHealthSource.com whenever they need information about a licensed health care professional. DOH’s Division of Medical Quality Assurance (MQA) maintains FLHealthSource.com. The site provides health care consumers with a host of information, including license status, office address, and disciplinary information for all health care professionals licensed in Florida. The site also provides additional information for the five profiled professions –medical doctors, osteopathic physicians, chiropractic physicians, podiatric physicians and advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs).
Florida Progressive Information Network (FLPIN)
offers a nonpartisan communication system designed to link progressive organizers with progressive activists. Individuals may sign up free of charge to receive alerts on a variety of progressive issues from other organizations participating in the Network. In order to make FLPIN work, it must be used on a regular basis. The more information put in, the more valuable it is as a tool. Link FLPIN to organization websites. A training manual is at www.flpin.net/alert.pdf. For more information or assistance, contact jen@floridahumanist.org
Webinars, Audio, Videos and Films: Web, Rent/Purchase, Theater
Moving Science to Practice and Policy: Addressing Inequities through a Focus on Place
National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NCMHD) has recently released this first videocast as part of the NIH’s monthly Health Disparities Seminar Series. In the videocast, Dr. Brian Smedley speaks about the negative effects of racial and socioeconomic segregation on health. He also highlights some of the challenges and opportunities in applying research to policies and practices that address health inequities and improve health opportunities.
PBS Re-Broadcasting "Unnatural Causes" Series in October
PBS will be re-broadcasting this series in October. It is about health; about why some of us get sicker more often and die sooner and what causes us to fall ill in the first place. PBS has criss-crossed the country investigating the stories and findings that are shaking up conventional notions about what makes us healthy or sick. These compelling personal stories illustrate obstacles and inequities in society but they also point the way to new possibilities as individuals and communities organize to give control over their destiny and their health. See local listings for dates and times.
Treatments on Different Races
CNN recently launched a video discussion on race and healthcare, Treatments on Different Races, as part of a week-long focus on health care issues. CNN anchors discussed disparities in disease outcomes between minorities and whites. According to the anchors, one of the most striking disparities is differences in survival rates—for example, the survival rate for black men that have strokes is 25 percent compared to 52 percent for a white men.
PERIODICALS AND BOOKS
Medical Manual for Religio-Cultural Competency
To meet the needs of its diverse clinician and patient constituency, EmblemHealth announced on Friday publication of what is believed to be the first comprehensive guide to help physicians and medical professionals address the needs of patients whose health care decisions are influenced by their religious and cultural beliefs. The manual is sponsored by EmblemHealth and created by the Tanenbaum Center For Interreligious Understanding, a global leader in training health care providers to offer religiously and culturally competent care for patients of all ages and backgrounds.
REPORTS AND STUDIES
New Listings
New Health Care Reform Reports
Comparative Effectiveness May Not Produce Hoped-For Savings
One component of Democrats' health reform plan, comparative effectiveness research, would seek to improve quality and lower medical costs by identifying the most clinically and cost-effective treatments available, but a new study by the Rand Corp. finds the impact of the research may be slow to arrive, BusinessWeek reports. "In the US, where the doctor-patient relationship is sacrosanct, just because a study says a particular treatment is superior for most patients, or the most cost-effective, doesn't mean practitioners will embrace it," according to BusinessWeek. The economic stimulus bill, passed in February, directed $1.1 billion toward this type of research, but researchers say the program may be shortchanged by restrictions on how its findings can be used. The Rand report says, according to Business Week, "Past efforts have shown that incentives or other mechanisms may be needed to change behavior. Because the stimulus bill specifically prohibits using the results of federally funded comparative effectiveness research ... to guide payment policy or benefit design, developing strong incentives that will drive down spending is considerably less likely (9/8/09, Rand)
New Poll Shows Concerns With Current Health Care System Remain High
New polling released today shows that Americans 50-plus remain concerned with the current health care system, underscoring the need for reform. Data released jointly today by AARP, the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Nurses Association (ANA), show that about half of people over 50-years old are concerned that there won't be enough nurses or doctors to provide care in the future, and two-thirds of those polled are either very or somewhat concerned that the current system limits their ability to see the doctor of their choice. (9/10/09, AMA and ANA)
Medicare Changes Could Save Money For Taxpayers, Enrollees But Seniors Fret
Health reform legislation could change key aspects of Medicare policy, such as the amount seniors pay for drug coverage, a prospect that leaves many beneficiaries wary of the overhaul amid reassurance from the administration and harsh warnings from critics. For instance, "Medicare beneficiaries would often have to pay higher premiums for prescription drug coverage, but many would see their total drug spending decline, so they would save money as a result of health legislation moving through the House, the Congressional Budget Office said in a recent report." (8/31/09, New York Times)
Hospital Executives Worry About Reform Uncertainties
Hospital executives worry about uncertainties in reform. "Anxiety is running high among hospital executives as they ponder the ever-changing proposals on Capitol Hill. Wary of changes to payment formulas and fiercely protective of their franchise, industry groups are spending millions to lobby Congress. They also pledged $155 billion in Medicare and Medicaid savings in a deal with the White House in hopes of avoiding a deeper restructuring that could cost them more." (8/29/09, Washington Post)
Health Bill Would Cut Drug Spending for Many on Medicare, Budget Office Says
"Medicare beneficiaries would often have to pay higher premiums for prescription drug coverage, but many would see their total drug spending decline, so they would save money as a result of health legislation moving through the House, the Congressional Budget Office said in a recent report. (8/30/09, New York Times)
Young Adults Likely to Pay Big Share of Reform's Cost
As health-care legislation advances through Congress, the young adults who were so vital to President Obama's election are emerging as a significant beneficiary of his top domestic priority, but they are also likely to play a major role in funding any reform. (9/16/09, Washington Post)
Poll: More Erosion in Health Care Confidence
August's contentious disputes over health care appeared to take a toll, further eroding consumers' confidence about their health care future and access to care, a new report has found. (9/15/09, AP)
Poll Finds Most Doctors Support Public Option
Among all the players in the health care debate, doctors may be the least understood about where they stand on some of the key issues around changing the health care system. (9/15/09, NPR)
Reform Opposition Is High But Easing
President Obama continues to face significant public resistance to his drive to initiate far-reaching changes to the country's health-care system, with widespread skepticism about central tenets of his plan, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll. (9/14/09, Washington Post)
Current Health Reform Proposals: No Government Takeover of American Health Care
Current national health reform proposals would not cause "a government takeover of health care." Pending legislation would leave in place the country's largely private medical care system, in which more than 90 percent of doctors are in private practice and 84 percent of all hospital admissions are to private facilities. (9/8/09, Urban Institute)
US Health Reform Estimates Need Long View
Complications from chronic illnesses often do not emerge for many years. Current federal cost projection methods are constrained by ten-year cost estimates, which capture increases in near-term intervention costs but not changes in long-term costs. An article presents results from an epidemiologically based model that projects federal costs for diabetes under alternative policies, and we discuss the potential changes in the federal budget process needed to capture the full impact of these interventions. (9/1/09, Health Affairs)
A Medical Mystery: Why Health Care Is So Expensive
For all the attempts to lower the cost of health care in the United States, it remains expensive. Overall medical spending accounts for more than 17 percent of America's entire economy. (9/4/09, NPR)
Bending the Curve: Slowing Health Care Costs Requires Comprehensive Approach
Much of the rhetoric around health reform has centered on the overriding need to reduce the growth of health care costs, but agreeing on approaches that accomplish this goal has proven elusive. In order to slow the rise in health care costs, steps must be taken to address significant problems that exist with payment, benefits, regulations, and organizations in the current health care system. (9/1/09, RWJF)
Report Estimates Impact of Various Health Coverage Proposals
An estimated 17 million uninsured Americans would gain health coverage if Medicaid were expanded to cover people with incomes up to 133% of the federal poverty level, according to a new study. Providing subsidies to purchase health coverage to individuals with incomes between 133% and 399% of the poverty level would benefit 16.3 million uninsured adults, the study estimates. The groups also released studies estimating how many uninsured parents, childless adults and children would be covered under these and other scenarios being considered by Congress as part of health care reform. (8/28/09, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured)
Aspects of Health Reform: Economic Principles
As health reform again grabs headlines, it is important for policy-makers to understand four economic principles—efficiency, equity, adverse selection, and moral hazard—as they think about how best to expand coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. A new set of research papers published in the latest edition of Inquiry brings together health care economists from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation-sponsored Economic Research Initiative on the Uninsured (ERIU) at the University of Michigan to examine these principles and how they relate to health reform. Articles include: Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance and the Promise of Health Insurance Reform; Mandates and the Affordability of Health Care; Risk Selection and Risk Adjustment: Improving Insurance in the Individual and Small Group Markets; Beneficial Moral Hazard and the Theory of the Second Best (8/31/09, RWJF)
Children's Advocates Fear Health Reform Could Undermine CHIP
As Democratic leaders pursue their quest to provide millions of Americans with health care insurance, some advocates see an unlikely casualty of reform: youngsters now covered by the Children’s Health Insurance Program whom they fear could end up with reduced benefits. (8/25/09, KFF)
Why So Many Workers in Small Businesses Lack Affordable Health Insurance
Small-business owners and employees are among those who stand to benefit the most from provisions in some of the current health reform proposals under consideration by Congress, according to a new study. (9/9/09, Commonwealth Fund)
Employer-Sponsored Coverage More Costly
The average premium for employer-based family health coverage rose 5% in 2009 to $13,375, according to a new survey. Sixty percent of firms offered health benefits to at least some of their workers, with the average employee paying about one-third of the premium. Four in 10 workers at firms with fewer than 200 people had deductibles of $1,000 or more. Between 1999 and 2009, the average family premium for employer-based coverage rose 131%, three times more than worker wages and four times the general rate of inflation. “Today’s survey results demonstrate the need for comprehensive, meaningful reform,” said Maulik Joshi, HRET president and AHA senior vice president for research. “Our nation faces a unique opportunity to achieve reform and build a better health care system that improves care for patients and provides coverage for all at an affordable cost.” (9/15/09, KFF and AHA Health Research & Educational Trust)
Free Report - Better Health, Not Just Better Health Care
This report was produced in partnership with the Big Cities Health Coalition, a group of eighteen city and county health departments from major American urban centers representing 14 percent of the country's total population. It focuses on how the federal government can play a vital role in improving public health by working with state and local health departments. The report includes examples of some innovative programs that these health departments have developed to prevent or address chronic diseases. The report is available for free, both online and in print. (September 2009, Milbank Memorial Fund)
The excise tax is a sound way to help pay for health reform, but it has some shortcomings that can and should be addressed. Policymakers should modify the proposal to avoid unfairly affecting firms with older — and hence less healthy — workforces and to keep the “reach” of the tax from expanding too much. (9/18/09, CBPP)
"Senator Baucus’ plan is a major contribution to the health care debate, as it would extend coverage to tens of millions of uninsured Americans and improve insurance for millions of Americans who already have coverage — through reforms that deal with matters such as pre-existing conditions — and do so while fully offsetting the costs, and beginning to slow the growth of health care spending. The plan does suffer, however, from two key problems that need Congress’ attention: insufficient subsidies to help low- and moderate-income people afford health coverage and out-of-pocket costs, and a “free rider” provision that would give employers disincentives to hire prospective workers from low-income families, especially parents with children. (9/16/09, CBPP)
Median household income declined 3.6 percent in 2008 after adjusting for inflation, the largest single-year decline on record, and reached its lowest point since 1997. The poverty rate rose to 13.2 percent, its highest level since 1997. The number of people in poverty hit 39.8 million, the highest level since 1960. The number of people who are uninsured jumped by 682,000...and reached 46.3 million. The figures for 2009, a year in which the economy has weakened further and unemployment has climbed substantially, will look considerably worse, and the figures will likely worsen again in 2010 if, as many economic forecasters expect, unemployment continues to rise in that year. (9/10/09, CBPP)
“The Census Bureau reported today that 46.3 million U.S. residents lacked health insurance in 2008, an increase of 632,000 over the previous year. Nearly 6.6 million more people were uninsured in 2008 than in 2001, when the previous recession hit bottom. “The number and share of people without health insurance are doubtless higher now (in September 2009) than these figures show, since the unemployment rate has grown substantially over the past year and many people have lost their health insurance along with their job.” (9/10/09, CBPP)
“[A] proposal included in the new health reform package that Senator Max Baucus unveiled this weekend would have serious consequences, particularly for low-income and minority workers and women?. [It] would discourage the hiring of lower-income people. And since minorities are more likely to have low family incomes than non-minorities, a larger share of prospective minority workers would likely be harmed.” (9/7/09, CBPP)
New: Florida Reports
New Listings: Medicaid
GAO Calls for Medicaid Preventive Services Guidance
CMS Services should expedite policy guidance on Medicaid coverage of obesity-related services for children, and consider the need for similar guidance regarding coverage of recommended preventive services for adults, according to a new GAO report. Many children and adults in the Medicaid program have health conditions, particularly obesity, that could be identified or managed by preventive services, GAO said. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus requested the report, which examines the extent to which Medicaid children and adults have certain health conditions and receive certain preventive services. (9/14/09,GAO)
New Listings: Children's Health Care
What's Next for CHIP-Funded Adult Coverage?
examines how the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act (CHIPRA) changes coverage for parents and for adults without dependent children. (August 2009, Families USA)
IOM Releases Action Steps for Local Governments to Prevent Childhood Obesity
Recognizing that local government officials are eager to address the childhood obesity epidemic, the IOM has released a report that serves as a practical guide for government officials at the city, town, township or county level who want to take action to address healthy eating and active living. (9/1/09, RWJF)
New Listings: Medicare
Medicare Advantage Rates Could Go Up, While Part D 'Exceeding Expectations'
Seniors on Medicare Advantage plans could pay more in premiums, while Medicare payments for drugs, dialysis and power wheelchairs get mixed reviews. "Despite near-zero inflation and recessionary conditions, health insurers in 2010 face another year of double-digit increases in the charges they pay for hospital services, physicians, drugs, and other healthcare costs. . . . Many insurers will raise premiums and co-pays or eliminate some coverage of certain expensive drugs, but "[t]he biggest percentage impact of the changes may be felt by the estimated 11 million older Americans with Medicare Advantage policies, according to Edward A. Kaplan," senior vice president at the Segal Co., which surveys cost trends at health and drug-plan providers annually. (9/2/09, US News & World Report)
An Examination Of Medicare Cost And Quality Issues
Chronic conditions and readmission to the ER trigger significant costs to the hospital system and Medicare while efforts are underway to save Medicare money by preventing hospital infections and falls. A recent study reported that on average, almost one in five Medicare beneficiaries who are discharged from a hospital will re-enter it within a month. Some are planned, but the majority are not. (September 2009, New England Journal of Medicine)
Medicare Part D Still Stumping Seniors
Medicare's Part D program, designed to subsidize the cost of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries, has been the subject of much debate. Proponents have touted the plan's ability to expand access to prescription drugs to seniors; critics have long questioned its design and user-friendly appeal. Now, a recent report published indicates that, overall, Medicare Part D is producing favorable results. In fact, by the beginning of this year, about 60 percent of Medicare beneficiaries were actively participating in a Part D plan. But, despite these findings, professionals in the health care sector cannot help but point to the large number - roughly 4.5 million - of Medicare beneficiaries who remain without much-needed drug coverage. (8/26/09, NEJM)
Medicare Proposes Covering HIV Screening for Those at Risk
CMS has proposed covering HIV screening for Medicare beneficiaries at increased risk for the infection, including women who are pregnant and beneficiaries who request the service. Acting CMS Administrator Charlene Frizzera said the proposal “has great potential in terms of saving lives and improving the quality of life for many seniors, as well as beneficiaries under age 65.” According to the Department of Health and Human Services, an estimated 19% of U.S. residents diagnosed with AIDS are age 50 or older. The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 enables CMS to consider whether Medicare should cover additional preventive services if certain requirements are met. CMS will accept comments on the proposed decision through Oct. 9, and issue a final coverage decision by Dec. 8. Instructions for submitting comments can be found on the CMS Web site. (9/09/09, CMS)
New Study Finds Problems Accessing Medications Through Medicare Part D associated With Increased Emergency Room Visits
Patients with mental illness who had problems accessing medications through a Medicare Part D plan were more likely to visit a psychiatric emergency department according to a new study. (September 2009, Psychiatric Services, a journal of the American Psychiatric Association)
Some question private Medicare plans' advantage
Seniors have flocked by the millions to Medicare Advantage, privately run plans offered as an alternative to traditional, government-run Medicare. Programs that promise lower premiums or other perks have combined with heavy marketing from insurance companies to make the programs double in size in the last six years to nearly 11 million members and growing. In the debate on overhauling the U.S. health care system, Advantage has been criticized as an example of a broken system that costs too much, confuses enrollees and suffers from a lack of oversight. (8/29/09, AP)
State-by-State Medicare Cuts to Nursing Homes
"A new analysis of the pending HR 3200, combined with the impact of a recently-enacted Medicare regulation cutting Medicare-funded nursing home care by $12 billion over ten years, finds seniors in fifteen states (including Florida) requiring nursing and rehabilitative care will face total funding cuts in excess of $1 billion over that same time period," according to an AHCA description of the study. "The assessment was based on the CBO score of both HR 3200 and the recent CMS funding rule, along with Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) utilization data." (8/20/09, American Health Care Association)
America's Seniors And Health Insurance Reform: Protecting Coverage And Strengthening Medicare
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has issued this new report, which highlights the problems with the status quo that leave seniors paying escalating costs for their health care while outlining how health insurance reform will strengthen Medicare and protect coverage for seniors. (8/30/09, DHHS)
Seniors Worry About Impact Of Reform Proposals On Medicare
Older Americans, who vote at a higher rate than other age groups, also hold deeper concerns than others about proposed health care changes, surveys have shown. (8/28/09, Medical News Today)
Three Groups that Will Soon Face Higher Medicare Premiums
While some in Medicare will not see premiums rise, Medicaid recipients, wealthy retirees and new enrollees will all have to pay more. (8/24/09, US News & World Report)
New Listings: Federal/State Budgets
At least 48 states have addressed or still face shortfalls in their budgets for fiscal year 2010 totaling $168 billion – or almost one-quarter of state budgets. This includes new shortfalls of $28 billion that have opened up in the adopted 2010 budgets of at least 15 states and the District of Columbia. (9/3/09, CBPP)
At least 41 states plus the District of Columbia are enacting cuts in all major areas of state services because the recession has caused declining revenues from income taxes, sales taxes, and other revenue sources used to pay for these services. Federal recovery act dollars and funds raised from tax increases are greatly reducing the extent, severity, and economic impact of these cuts, but only to a point. (9/3/09, CBPP)
This snapshot of state budget problems has been updated to reflect the new data on state budget cuts and shortfalls included in the above analyses. (9/3/09, CBPP)
New Listings: Health Insurance, Health Care Costs
Health Spending Blamed For Ballooning Deficit Projection
The White House's grim new budget projections, released Tuesday, show a decade-worth of deficits tallying $9.05 trillion, $2 trillion deeper than anticipated in February, the New York Times reports. Peter Orszag, the White House budget director, said "the key driver of our long-term deficits" is federal health spending, mainly on the ballooning Medicare and Medicaid programs, making health reform essential. "Over all, it underscores the dire fiscal situation that we inherited and the need for serious steps to put our nation back on a sustainable fiscal path," Orszag said, asserting that this White House was confronting a Bush administration legacy. (8/25/09, New York Times)
Study Links 45,000 U.S. Deaths to Lack of Insurance
Nearly 45,000 people die in the United States each year -- one every 12 minutes -- in large part because they lack health insurance and cannot get good care, Harvard Medical School researchers found in a new analysis. (9/18/09, Reuters)
Average Family Health Insurance Policy: $13,375, Up 5%
An average family health insurance policy now costs more than some compact cars, and four in 10 companies will likely pass more of that expense on to workers, according to a closely watched survey of businesses. (9/16/09, USA Today)
New Uninsured Number: Up To 46.3 Million In 2008
Census Bureau highlights of new uninsured numbers. (September 2009, Census Bureau)
Grim Census Data on Poverty Points to Growing Need Even Before Unemployment Skyrocketed this Year
Key points about the grim poverty and health insurance trends
A first fast look at the national poverty and health insurance data
National and state poverty, health insurance, and household income data and analyses
Uninsured numbers reflect the importance of public health insurance programs. The Census Bureau report that the number of Americans living in poverty increased by nearly 2.6 million to 13.2 percent in 2008 is a stark reminder of the toll the recession was already taking on families even before the economic picture worsened this year. Continuing a long-term trend, the number of people without health insurance grew to 46.3 million, according to the Census data. From 2000 to 2008, the proportion without insurance rose from 13.7 to 15.4 percent. The numbers of uninsured working age adults (18-64) increased from 19.6 percent to 20.3 percent between 2007 and 2008, an increase of more than 1.5 million people. Bucking the trend, the total number of uninsured children dropped from 11 percent to 9.9 percent, because many children are eligible for public insurance programs such as SCHIP and Medicaid that are unavailable to most adults. (September 2009, Coalition on Human Needs)
Today’s grim Census Bureau report shows the nation lost substantial ground in 2008 on poverty, median income, and the number of people who are uninsured. Several aspects of the Census report stand out. The figures will be worse this year. (9/10/09, CBPP)
New Listings: Health Disparities
Race, Ethnicity, and Language Data: Standardization for Health Care Quality Improvement
The IOM’s Subcommittee on Standardized Collection of Race/Ethnicity Data for Healthcare Quality Improvement identifies current models for collecting and coding race, ethnicity, and language data; reviews challenges involved in obtaining these data; and makes recommendations for a nationally standardized approach for use in health care quality improvement. (2009, Institute of Medicine)
Equity Policies: A Review of the Recommendations
This is a compilation of 27 reports, memos, and briefs that identify action steps for creating health equity. Each piece highlights recommendations, strategies, and/or priorities for health equity. (9/17/09, The Disparity Reducing Advances Project)
Focusing on Children's Health: Community Approaches to Addressing Health Disparities
describes the evidence linking early childhood life conditions and adult health; discusses the contribution of the early structural and social aspects in children’s lives to observed racial and ethnic disparities in health; and highlights successful models that engage both community factors and health care to affect the child’s development over life. (2009, Institute of Medicine)
Commission to Certify Health Care Interpreters
Health care professionals, interpreters and other stakeholders today launched this commission, which will work to assure competency and proper training for health care interpreters through an accredited professional certification program. The certification program will be based on data from the field regarding knowledge, skills, performance and employers’ expectations, rather than on a specific training program or vendor’s service package. The commission also will collaborate with the National Council on Interpreting in Health Care to develop national training standards for health care interpreters, who help health care practitioners communicate with patients with limited English proficiency. (September 2009, CCHI)
Health Coverage in Communities of Color: Talking about the New Census Numbers
Families USA’s new fact sheet, takes a closer look at the latest data and finds that communities of color continue to bear the brunt of the uninsured crisis. This fact sheet looks at who is uninsured, who is living in poverty, and why public programs are vital to communities of color. (September 2009, Families USA)
Disparities in Cancer Reflect Hospital Resources
Hospitals that treat greater numbers of minority patients have worse survival rates on average for patients with breast and colon cancer, independent of race, according to a study. (8/20/09, Journal of Clinical Oncology)
Report Suggests Unsafe Neighborhood Increases Likelihood of Overweight Among Urban Teens
A study suggests that adolescents who live in an urban neighborhood that feels unsafe may be more likely to be overweight, Reuters reports. Based on data collected as part of the 2006 Boston Youth Survey, a team of researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health analyzed the health behaviors, use of school and community resources and exposure to violence reported by more than 1,100 high school students in Boston. (8/27/09, Public Health/RWJF)
New Listings: Other Health Issues
Hospitals Own Up to Errors: Some Find That Confronting Mistakes Reduces Litigation—and Future Mishaps
Medical errors kill as many as 98,000 Americans each year, according to the Institute of Medicine, a government advisory group. In an effort to improve this record, some hospitals are taking steps to admit grievous mistakes and to learn from them in order to overhaul flawed procedures. That represents a sharp departure from hospitals' traditional response when something goes terribly wrong—retreating behind a wall of silence to guard against potential lawsuit. Now, some hospitals are hoping to stem the tide of lawsuits by being more open with aggrieved patients and their families. While some experts warn that disclosure will lead to an increase in litigation and costs, there are some indications that patients are less likely to sue if they receive full disclosure and an apology, along with an offer of compensation. But longer term, some administrators say the solution is to improve hospital safety records. (8/25/09, Wall Street Journal)
Health Of U.S. Workers Threatened By Job Insecurity
Persistent job insecurity poses a major threat to worker health, according to a new study published in the September issue of the peer-reviewed journal. "Dramatic changes in the U.S. labor market have weakened bonds between employers and employees and fueled perceptions of job insecurity. This study provides the strongest evidence to date that persistent job insecurity has a negative impact on worker health. In fact, chronic job insecurity was a stronger predictor of poor health than either smoking or hypertension in one of the groups we studied." (September 2009, Social Science and Medicine)
Continued Listings: Health Care Reform Reports
Paying the Price: How Health Insurance Premiums Are Eating Up Middle-Class Incomes--State Health Insurance Premium Trends and the Potential of National Reform
The rapid rise in health insurance premiums has severely strained U.S. families and employers in recent years. This analysis of federal data finds that if premiums for employer-sponsored insurance grow in each state at the projected national rate of increase, then the average premium for family coverage would rise from $12,298 (the 2008 average) to $23,842 by 2020—a 94 percent increase. However, if health system reforms were able to slow premium growth by 1 percentage point in all states, by 2020 employers and families together would save $2,571 per premium for family coverage, compared with projected trends. If growth could be slowed by 1.5 percentage points—a target recently agreed to by a major industry coalition—yearly savings would equal $3,759. The analysis presents state-by-state data on premium costs for 2003 and 2008, as well as projections, using various assumptions, for costs in 2015 and 2020. (8/20/09, Commonwealth Fund)
HR 3200 Health Reform Analysis and Overview
A new document provides a detailed comparison of the key child and family provisions in the House Tri-Committee and Senate HELP Committee proposals. On the "Say Ahhh!" blog, Dawn Horner provides an overview of the most notable amendments and changes in the House bill for children and families. (August 2009, Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, Center for Children and Families)
Coverage Denied: How the Current Health Insurance System Leaves MILLIONS Behind
A large proportion of Americans have health conditions that insurance companies can qualify as "pre-existing conditions," that preclude affordable, accessible coverage. (US Dept of HHS)
Last Chance for the Public Option? Reports of Its Demise Could Be Premature
Administration officials should have been able to predict that the public option -- a Medicare-like program from which Americans could chose to get their health insurance -- would eventually become the ideological flashpoint of the entire debate. Congress reconvenes soon, and the ugliest parts of this debate -- the lies about death panels and covering undocumented immigrants, the accusations of Nazism, the assault-weapon-toting nutballs -- will fade into the background. The next phase is the actual process of legislation (just as ugly, perhaps, in its own way). There are a number of different scenarios, so it's worth going through step by step to see where this whole mess might actually end up. (8/25/09, American Prospect)
Key Issues in Health Reform
Covers: The federal government’s role in financing and delivering health care; Lowering the rate of growth of Medicare spending; Advance care planning for serious illness (8/20/09, Health Affairs)
Who's Paying to Kill Health Reform?
In watching town hall after town hall, many of us have looked at attendees frantically spouting nonsense about "death panels" and comparing the public health insurance option to Hitler and wondered, "where do they get these people?" Click to see graphic that attempts to explain this (8/24/09, Campaign for America's Future)
Does Medicare Under-Pay Hospitals?
An overview of the Medicare reimbursement issue--particularly as it pertains to hospitals. Medicare is the second largest health care payer in America, trailing only Medicaid. The program is very popular with its enrollees, with polls showing a higher level of satisfaction than with private insurance. Medicare is less popular with hospitals. Opponents of health care reform in general and of a strong public option in particular often cite hospital dissatisfaction with Medicare as a reason why the reform programs won't work. They report that evidence suggests that overall Medicare pays hospitals less than what it costs them to provide care. Private insurers pay more, and by "cost-shifting," hospitals use these payments to make up the losses on Medicare. Opponents worry that if a public option linked to or modeled on Medicare becomes the dominant payer for people under 65, hospitals will go broke without the "subsidy" from private insurers, and the health system will be destroyed. Data collected by hospital groups and the insurance industry suggests that this is unlikely to happen. (8/24/09, Health Beat)
Rite of Passage? Why Young Adults Become Uninsured and How New Policies Can Help, 2009 Update
Young adults ages 19 to 29 are one of the largest segments of the U.S. population without health insurance: 13.2 million, or 29 percent, lacked coverage in 2007. They often lose coverage at age 19 or upon high school or college graduation: nearly two of five (38%) high school graduates who do not enroll in college and one-third of college graduates are uninsured for a time during the first year after graduation. Twenty-six states have passed laws to expand coverage of dependents to young adults under parents' insurance policies. Congressional proposals to reform the health system could help uninsured young adults gain coverage and prevent others from losing it. (8/6/09, Commonwealth Fund)
Many Seniors Worry Health Reform Could Hurt Instead Of Help
Polls, events and Congressional offices report that far lower proportions of seniors than other groups support health reform, and they are genuinely worried about losing current benefits. (8/13/09, Medical News Today)
82% majority of Canadians believed their country's health care system was superior to the U.S. system
A recent Harris/Decima poll in Canada that found a 10-to-1 majority of Canadians believed their system was "superior" to the U.S. system. They might also note that a 70% majority of Canadians thought their system was "performing well"; and that a majority favored an expansion of public sector health care (i.e., "government-run" health care in the current debate) over private sector health care. (8/1/8/09, Harris Poll Weekly)
"34% of adults now think that Obama's proposed (health care) reform would be bad for 'people like you,' compared to only 18% in January..."
The More People Think They Know about Obama's Health Care Reform Proposals The More They Oppose Them. In late January only 17% of the public claimed to know much about President Obama's health care reform proposals. By late July, just before the president's press conference on July 22nd, that number had more than doubled, to 36%, while fully 72% felt they knew "a lot" or "some." The full importance of this question is that how much people feel they know about the president's proposals are strongly correlated with opposition to them. (8/11/09, Harris Poll Weekly)
Recent Harris Polls Show Increased Opposition to Obama's Health Care Reform Proposals But Majority Support the 'Public Option'
Two recent Harris Polls provide new information on public attitudes to President Obama's health care reform proposals. However, both of these were conducted before President Obama's press conference on July 22nd in which he made an eloquent plea for public support and which may have influenced public opinion after these two surveys were conducted. (8/10/09, Healthcare News)
How Health Care Reform Can Lower the Costs of Insurance Administration
A national health exchange that includes both public and private plan options as part of comprehensive health reform may save up to $265 billion over 10 years in insurance administrative costs, in part by reducing insurance companies’ spending on brokers’ commissions and marketing. (July 2009, Commonwealth Fund)
Health Care Premiums Run Amok: The Cost of Doing Nothing about the Health Care Crisis
shows that, without health reform, average family premiums will grow to more than $22,000 by 2019, up from $13,000 today. And once copayments and other out-of-pocket expenses are factored into the total, overall family health care costs will be even higher. This memo includes the forecasted premium increases for each state. (7/24/09, Center for American Progress)
State Variation and Health Reform
discusses how the impact of reform on individual states will vary based on their economic situation, current health coverage, and health care expenditures. This analysis pulls together key information related to state variation, including their economic profiles, Medicaid and CHIP eligibility and enrollment levels, coverage of the non-elderly population, and their individual and small-group markets. (8/6/09, KFF)
Coverage for Low-Income People: Should the Medicaid Program Be Expanded to Cover More of the Uninsured? Should There Be Changes in the Children’s Health Insurance Program?
examines the options being debated by key congressional committees and summarizes arguments for and against expansion of these public programs. The proposed changes could raise income eligibility levels, allow low-income individuals to buy private insurance with help from subsidies, or even enroll in a public option. (7/23/09, Health Affairs)
Too Sick for Health Care: How Insurers Limit and Deny Care in the Individual Insurance Market
reveals the practices insurers use against the roughly one in four Americans who either purchase their insurance in the individual market or have considered doing so. This memo, and the accompanying 50 state fact sheets, examine how insurers in this market offer weak benefits, exclude benefits, cancel coverage, and limit coverage. (7/20/09, Center for American Progress)
Failure to Protect: Why the Individual Insurance Market Is Not a Viable Option for Most U.S. Families
finds that, over the last three years, nearly three-quarters of people who tried to buy coverage in this market never purchased a plan, primarily due to high premiums. More than two out of five adults with coverage through the individual market reported not getting needed health care because of cost. People with such coverage also spend far more out of pocket than those with job-based coverage and are more vulnerable to catastrophic health care costs. (7/21/09, Commonwealth Fund)
The Clock Is Ticking: More Americans Losing Health Coverage
Each week, another 44,230 Americans lose health coverage. That adds up to a staggering 2.3 million people losing coverage per year, which further makes the case for the urgency of action on health reform. This new report provides the first ever state-by-state data on the number of people who are expected to lose health coverage between the beginning of 2008 and the end of 2010. Numbers are broken down per week, per month, and per year. (7/16/09, Families USA)
Should Health Benefits Be Taxed So More Can Be Insured?
Health Affairs and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) released the latest in a series of Health Policy Briefs, which provide objective, non-partisan analysis of policy proposals related to health reform. (7/9/09, Health Affairs)
Private and Public Insurance Choices Would Help Reduce Administrative Health Care Costs by $265 Billion Over 10 Years
As lawmakers debate how to pay for an overhaul of the nation's health care system, a new report from The Commonwealth Fund projects that including both private and public insurance choices in a new insurance exchange would save the United States as much as $265 billion in administrative costs from 2010 to 2020. Congressional leaders are attempting to keep 10-year federal budget costs of health care reform legislation under $1 trillion. (7/16/09, Commonwealth Fund)
Fork in the Road: Alternative Paths to a High Performance U.S. Health System
Expanding health coverage to nearly all Americans through a national insurance exchange could reduce national health expenditures by between $1.2 trillion and $3 trillion over 11 years, estimates a new study. The study estimates that an insurance exchange offering a choice of private health plans could save an estimated $1.2 trillion over 11 years, when combined with certain other reforms proposed by a Commonwealth Fund commission. Including in the exchange a public plan that reimburses health care providers at rates midway between current Medicare and private plan rates could save $2 trillion over 11 years, while a public plan that reimburses providers at current Medicare rates could save $3 trillion, the study adds. (6/24/09, Commonwealth Fund)
Cost Implications of Three Health Reform Scenarios, with Alternative Public Plan Options
A comprehensive approach to health insurance, provider payment, and care delivery system reforms has the potential to slow health care cost increases while achieving near-universal coverage. The potential savings for families, businesses, and the federal government vary markedly, however, depending on whether or not a public insurance plan option is included and how such a plan is structured, according to a new analysis from The Commonwealth Fund. (6/24/09, Commonwealth Fund)
HHS Releases State-Specific Online Reports Highlighting Need for Reform
HHS has released a series of state-specific reports on the “health care status quo,” which she said highlight the urgent need for health reform. The reports include data such as the rising cost of health coverage and the uninsured, and the impact of failing to adequately invest in disease prevention. (6/26/09, DHHS)
AFL-CIO 2009 Health Care for America Survey
The results of the online 2009 Health Care for America Survey, sponsored by the AFL-CIO and Working America, reveal deep problems that must be fixed. A total of 23,460 people responded to the survey, which was conducted between April 1 and May 31, 2009. And more than 6,000 people took the time to tell heart-wrenching stories about the toll of health care costs, lack of insurance, systemic flaws in our health care system and the economic downturn. (July 2009, AFL-CIO)
Health benefit tax could single out Florida
Employer-based health insurance in South Florida costs 21% more than the national average, so the region would be in the cross-hairs if a Senate proposal to tax the most expensive plans goes anywhere. (7/11/09, Miami Herald)
Three Proposals to Pay for Health Care Reform: Impacts on People in Your State
State Fact Sheets and Analysis
Congress will likely pay for health care reform partly by finding savings in the existing health care system and partly by raising revenue in other ways. There are several ways that Congress can raise this additional revenue without hurting families who are already struggling to pay for health care and other necessities. CTJ has analyzed three of these progressive revenue options -- the House Ways and Means Committee surcharge proposal, the President's proposal to limit itemized deductions for high-income taxpayers, and a proposal formulated by CTJ to make the Medicare tax fairer and more progressive. (July 2009, Citizens for Tax Justice)
Some States May Have to Foot More of the Health Care Overhaul Bill
Thus far, battle lines in the health care debate "have been drawn largely in partisan terms," but due to the fact that certain states will have to bear more of the costs of reform, "lurking regional divisions could fracture Congress even further" and make it more difficult to find a compromise. (7/6/09, Los Angeles Times)
Changes to the Tax Exclusion of Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance Premiums: A Potential Source of Financing for Health Reform
"Many have suggested that reducing or eliminating the tax exclusion of employer-sponsored health insurance (ESI) could generate significant additional tax revenue to fund expansions in health insurance coverage," write the authors of a recent paper that explores "revenue and distributional consequences of several policy options that would alter the ESI tax exclusion. The paper examines the "a cap, or dollar limit, on the amount of employer-sponsored health insurance premiums excluded from taxable income" as well as "an index that determines how this cap might grow over time." The authors conclude, "in addition to providing a source of funding for health reform and incentives for seeking less expensive coverage, limiting the tax exclusion would mitigate the huge inequities built into the current treatment of employer contributions to premiums." (6/1/09, Urban Institute)
Medicare Offers Mixed Lessons For Possible 'Public Plan'
Of Medicare, which provides coverage to more than 45 million elderly and disabled, NYT says: "How closely a new public plan would resemble Medicare is unclear. Still, Medicare's record offers insights into the benefits and pitfalls of public health care. While it has driven down costs though its sheer market dominance, Medicare has also been extremely slow in using its power to encourage or compel more effective health care. And, of course, providing health care for older Americans has been expensive. Medicare is expected to represent an estimated 13 percent of next year's federal budget. (7/4/09, New York Times)
Most Americans Want Health Reform But Fear Its Side Effects
A majority of Americans see government action as critical to controlling runaway health-care costs, but there is broad public anxiety about the potential impact of reform legislation and conflicting views about the types of fixes being proposed on Capitol Hill, according to a new poll. Sixty-two percent of Americans support the public plan option under health reform, but when respondents were told having a public plan meant some health insurers would go out of business, support dropped to 37 percent. (6/24/09, Washington Post/ABC News)
Health Affairs/RWJF Policy Brief: A Public Health Insurance Plan
Strong divisions among lawmakers and interest groups have developed over whether or not a public plan should be included in health reform legislation. Supporters argue that a plan could lower administrative costs and leverage greater bargaining power to reduce health care costs for enrollees. Those opposed to a public plan say that a public plan would not be fiscally responsible or sustainable. Opponents also argue that a new government-run plan would crowd private insurance companies out of the market and eventually lead to a universal system of government-run health care. (6/19/09, RWJF)
Primary-Care Doctor Shortage May Undermine Reform Efforts
As the debate on overhauling the nation's health-care system exploded into partisan squabbling this week, virtually everyone still agreed on one point: There are not enough primary-care doctors to meet current needs, and providing health insurance to 46 million more people would threaten to overwhelm the system. (6/20/09, Washington Post)
Health Reform & Adolescents
A new report finds that many American adolescents are suffering from unmet physical, reproductive and behavioral health needs. The report finds that many adolescents are uninsured and have limited options for purchasing insurance that meets their unique health needs. also explores the issues of patient confidentiality, finding that the vast majority of health insurance agencies violate adolescents’ privacy by mailing home an explanation of benefits statement for services billed by providers. This often discloses sensitive and confidential services such as STD screenings and treatment. (6/26/09, First Focus)
New Report: Private and Public Insurance Choices Would Help Reduce Administrative Health Care Costs by $265 Billion Over 10 Years
As lawmakers debate how to pay for an overhaul of the nation's health care system, a new report from The Commonwealth Fund projects that including both private and public insurance choices in a new insurance exchange would save the United States as much as $265 billion in administrative costs from 2010 to 2020. (7/16/09, Commonwealth Fund)
House Health Bill’s High-Income Surcharge: A Reasonable Approach
“The House surcharge proposal is reasonable and well-targeted. In recent decades, incomes have grown disproportionately for households at the top of the income scale, while their taxes have fallen substantially. Moreover, despite charges to the contrary, the proposal would have only a small impact on small businesses.” (7/17/09, CBPP)
Legislating Under the Influence Health Care Report
A recent poll found that 60 percent of voters believe Congress puts the interests of campaign contributors over constituents, and 79 percent are worried that dependence on large campaign contributions will prevent Congress from tackling the important issues facing America today. A look at the numbers shows that citizens are right to worry. Major health care interests have spent $1.4 million per day this year lobbying Congress, so you can bet the legislative battle will not simply rest on the merits of each side’s argument. Health care-related industries wield tremendous influence in Washington and have sustained an expensive, high-intensity campaign to protect their own interests. (6/24/09, Common Cause)
Avalere Analysis of Proposed Elimination of Coverage Gap
Proposed health reform legislation from the House of Representatives will completely eliminate the Part D doughnut hole in 14 years, but would provide more immediate assistance to people using high-cost specialty drugs by progressively narrowing the coverage gap. (June 2009, Avalere Health)
Senate Finance Committee Faces Difficult Choices In Lowering Cost of Health Bill
Subsidy Changes Could Leave Some Without Affordable Coverage
The Senate Finance Committee is seeking to reduce the cost of its health reform bill to approximately $1 trillion over ten years, but faces difficult choices in doing so. Among the modifications it is considering are changes in subsidies intended to help low- and moderate-income families and individuals afford insurance. Some of these changes which would make it more difficult for moderate-income households (those between 300 percent and 400 percent of the poverty line) to afford insurance, which would likely result in a number moderate-income people remaining uninsured. At the same time, these changes would be preferable to changes that would adversely affect people with incomes below 300 percent of the poverty line, where the consequences of rolling back subsidies or benefit packages would be still more severe. (7/1/09, CBPP)
Health Disparities: A Case for Closing the Gap
The United States spends more than any other nation in the world on health care. Despite consistent increases in spending, disparities among demographic groups persist. Low-income Americans and racial and ethnic minorities experience disproportionately higher rates of disease, fewer treatment options, and reduced access to care. With unemployment on the rise, the disparities already apparent among these groups will continue to increase. This new report demonstrates the need for reform that reduces costs to make health care affordable; protects a patient's choice of doctors, hospitals, and insurance plans; invests in prevention and wellness; and assures quality, affordable health care for all Americans. (June 2009, US DHHS)
Reducing Medicaid and Medicare Drug Costs Could Help Pay For Health Reform
By lowering the costs that Medicaid and Medicare pay for prescription drugs, Congress could generate substantial savings to help pay for comprehensive health reform that achieves universal coverage. (6/11/09, CBPP)
Maintaining Current Value of Itemized Deductions For High - Income Taxpayers Could Help Pay For Health Care Reform
If Congress rejects the President’s proposal to help pay for health care reform by limiting the value of itemized deductions for high-income filers, it should at least prevent those subsidies from expanding in 2011, as they would under current law. Simply keeping the value of itemized deductions for filers in the top two brackets at their current levels would raise $68 billion over ten years according to the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center. (6/10/09, CBPP)
Some Media Reports Mischaracterize CBO Estimate of Senate “HELP” Health Reform Bill; Final “HELP” Bill Likely To Cover Many More People Than Partial Draft CBO Analyzed
The news media are widely reporting that, according to a partial and preliminary Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analysis, health reform legislation that the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) is developing would cut the number of uninsured by only 16 million people while costing $1 trillion over ten years. That conclusion, however, is incorrect. The CBO analysis covers only a part of the HELP plan (the parts for which the Committee gave CBO detailed specifications) and does not include major elements of the plan that would further substantially reduce the number of uninsured. (6/16/09, CBPP)
Crossing Our Lines: Working Together to Reform the U.S. Health System
This report aims to provide quality, affordable health coverage for all Americans and includes recommendations to improve quality and control costs. Authors Howard Baker, Tom Daschle and Bob Dole address key issues, including the need for strong insurance reforms that require guaranteed issue; the elimination of medical underwriting for pre-existing conditions and rating limitations; new state and regional coverage options through exchanges; reforms that constrain cost growth; and financial assistance through Medicaid and tax credits. The two-year consensus-building process has been supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. (6/17/09, The Leaders' Project on the State of American Health Care)
New Polls Find Support For Health Reform, Fear Of Costs
A series of new polls show support for major health care reform, but trepidation about certain policy proposals, and anxiety about quickly growing health care costs, the possibility of losing coverage, and the federal budget deficit in general. (6/19/09; AP, WSJ, NYT, SF Chronicle in MedNews Today)
Insurers Support Coverage Mandate Because It's Good for Business
Having previously fought the health care reform efforts of President Bill Clinton, the health insurance industry is now supporting a major overhaul of the system, particularly a requirement that everyone purchase coverage, mostly because it "faces a bleak future" if such a mandate is not adopted. (6/7/09, LA Times)
Employer Requirement Under Consideration For Senate Finance Committee Health Bill Could Discourage Hiring of Low-Income, Minority, Disabled Workers
"While an employer responsibility requirement is an essential component of health care reform, a proposal that the Senate Finance Committee and the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee are considering for the forthcoming health legislation is flawed and would have serious unintended consequences, particularly for low-income and minority workers and workers with disabilities." (6/24/09, CBPP)
The Last Piece of the Puzzle: Providing High-Quality, Affordable Health Coverage to All Children through National Health Reform
This report provides a blueprint of how to fill in the health coverage gaps for children and build a family-friendly health care system that addresses children's unique needs. (May 2009, Georgetown University Center for Children and Families)
Explaining Health Care Reform: What are Health Insurance Exchanges?
Various health reform proposals being discussed suggest developing an 'exchange' or a market-place where uninsured individuals will be able to purchase coverage. This brief explains the purpose and function of exchanges, how they would relate to greater regulation of the insurance market, and some of the key questions likely to be addressed by any health reform proposal that calls for the creation of exchanges. (May 2009, KFF)
Rules of the Road: How an Insurance Exchange Can Pool Risk and Protect Enrollees
Several leading proposals for major health reform include a new entity — sometimes called an “exchange” — that would offer a choice of health insurance plans to individuals and, if designed well, provide insurance options that are affordable, comprehensive, and easy for consumers to compare. This report discusses features that should be included in a health insurance exchange so that it provides individuals with coverage options that are affordable, comprehensive and easy to compare. (5/31/09, CBO)
HHS Report, Forum Call for Health Reform to Reduce Disparities
Low-income Americans and racial and ethnic minorities experience disproportionately higher rates of disease, fewer treatment options and reduced access to care, according to a report released today by Health and Human Services that calls for reducing disparities as part of health reform. The report was released in conjunction with a White House forum on health reform and disparities. At a news briefing this morning, members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Congressional Hispanic Caucus and Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus announced their reform priorities for reducing racial and ethnic health disparities. The groups called for elevating the National Institutes of Health’s National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities and strengthening HHS’ Office of Minority Health. They also called for a public health insurance plan option and adequate reimbursement for language and translation services. (6/9/09, DHHS)
Health Reform: Cost of Failure
Examines three different scenarios that could occur if the U.S. does not reform its health care system. It concludes that in the best case scenario, inaction could increase family and individual spending by at least 46 percent and nearly double government expenditures as more U.S. residents become eligible for programs such as Medicaid and CHIP. (5/21/09, RWJF)
White House: The Economic Case for Health Care Reform
Slowing the annual growth rate of health care spending by 1.5 percentage points would improve Americans’ standard of living, and reduce the federal budget deficit and the unemployment rate, concludes a new report by the White House Council of Economic Advisors. In addition, expanding coverage would increase the economic well-being of the uninsured, likely increase labor supply and improve the functioning of the labor market. The three-member council advises the president on the formulation of both domestic and international economic policy. (6/2/09, The White House)
Report Recommends Ways to Increase Coverage Among Children
This report recommends expanding Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program eligibility to help cover the nearly 9 million remaining uninsured children in the U.S. It suggests allowing families with incomes up to 150% of the federal poverty level to enroll in Medicaid and children in families with incomes up to 300% of the FPL to enroll in CHIP, while providing flexibility for states wishing to expand eligibility further. For ineligible families, it recommends establishing an insurance exchange and providing subsidies to help them afford coverage. Ensuring access to care will require major new federal resources, it said, suggesting that the federal government require Medicaid and CHIP reimbursement rates to be comparable to Medicare. (5/29/09, Georgetown University Health Policy Institute Center for Children and Families)
Designing Benefit Standards for a Health Insurance Exchange
explains that, in any exchange that is created as part of health reform, it is crucial to establish benefit standards so that all plans cover a comprehensive range of services, thereby ensuring that individuals and small businesses have a choice of affordable, comprehensive plans. These benefit standards would protect people with particular medical conditions from facing excessive costs, and they would better enable consumers to compare plans based on price and quality. (5/21/09, CBPP)
Ensuring Affordable Health Coverage and Health Care Services in an Insurance Exchange
finds that any health reform proposal that requires everyone to obtain health insurance must establish mechanisms to make health coverage and health care affordable. It also identifies four key components that any successful exchange should have: minimum standards for benefit packages, limits on the degree of variation in different benefit packages, limits on the number of different plan choices, and a requirement that insurers in the exchange offer the full range of benefit packages. (5/21/09, CBPP)
Medicaid as a Platform for Broader Health Reform: Supporting High-Need and Low-Income Populations
summarizes the problems that low-income individuals face in today's health care system and explores policy options for expanding Medicaid to cover more of this population as a base for broader health reform efforts. The report finds that Medicaid can provide a strong foundation that can help ensure the success of broader reform efforts by maintaining coverage for the poor and sick while providing a vehicle to reach low-income adults. (5/12/09, KFF)
Meeting Enrollees’ Needs: How Do Medicare and Employer Coverage Stack Up?
finds that elderly Medicare beneficiaries reported greater overall satisfaction with their health coverage, better access to care, and fewer problems paying medical bills than those under age 65 who are covered by job-based plans. This study was designed to examine whether a public plan could potentially improve access to necessary services and reduce the burden of medical bills for individuals under age 65. (5/12/09, Commonwealth Fund)
Building Momentum as Democrats Forge Health Care Reform
This review of recent action on health reform discusses industry and provider groups' pledge to reduce spending by $2 trillion over the next 10 years, noting that the groups' pledge was a "recognition that the pace of reform is quickening and they wanted to be a full participant in negotiations." It also addresses congressional action, including discussions of a public insurance option and how lawmakers are attempting to address the cost of reform. (5/14/09, NEJM)
Forging a New Plan For Health Care: Principles and Priorities for Sustainable Reform
The U.S. stands poised to enact dramatic and far-reaching changes to health-insurance markets in the name of expanding insurance coverage to the more than 45 million uninsured and controlling rapidly rising health-care costs in both the public and private sectors. Early signals from Congress and the administration indicate that many of these changes will involve expansions of existing government programs like Medicare and Medicaid, massive new regulation of private insurance providers, and trillions of dollars in new federal spending that will have to be financed through new taxes or substantial rationing of patient access to health-care goods and services. This paper makes the fiscal and political case for bipartisan health-care reform that: addresses dysfunctions in the existing health-care-delivery system; expands access to affordable private health insurance in an incremental and fiscally responsible manner; and improves market-based options for consumer access to information on health-care quality. (May 2009, Manhattan Institute for Policy Research)
Tax on Employer Health Benefits Could Be Used to Pay for System Overhaul
"A new tax on employer-provided health insurance is emerging as a likely option to finance an overhaul of the nation's health-care system," but opposition to the plan is coming from many directions. (5/22/09, Washington Post)
Study Lends Urgency to Passage of Health Care Legislation
A study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found that in 10 years the number of uninsured Americans could reach beyond 65.7 million and health care costs could more than double, a situation that is motivating lawmakers to pass a bill to revamp the health care system by the end of the year. (5/21/09, Reuters)
Too Great a Burden: Americans Face Rising Health Costs
Nearly one in four Americans under the age of 65—some 64.4 million people—will spend more than 10 percent of their pre-tax family income on health care in 2009.... And 18.7 million non-elderly Americans.... are in families that will spend more than 25 percent of their income on health care in 2009. What’s even more troubling is that most of these Americans are in families who already have health insurance. 82.6% of Americans in families that spend more than 10% of income on health care are insured, and 76.4% of Americans in families that spend more than 25% of income on health care are insured.With the economy in decline and unemployment at its highest rate in decades, more people are out of work and losing their health coverage as a result. Yet even those with insurance are exposed to thinner coverage and higher out of pocket costs. The need to secure true health reform has never been more urgent: The economic security of American families lies in the balance. (May 2009, Families USA)
Limiting the Tax Exclusion For Employer-Sponsored Insurance Can Help Pay For Health Reform; Universal Coverage May Be Out of Reach Otherwise
Congress is unlikely to be able to finance health reform legislation that includes universal coverage unless it limits the exclusion of employers’ health insurance payments from workers’ income and payroll taxes. Limiting the exclusion could provide significant revenues for health reform without eroding employer-sponsored insurance or causing other undesirable side effects - if the cap and the rest of the health reform legislation are well designed. (6/2/09, CBPP)
Paying for Health Reform
The next in a series of reports about how policymakers could pay for health reform that extends insurance to all Americans and slows the growth of health care costs:
Curbing Flexible Spending Accounts Could Help Pay For Health Care Reform
Reversing the Erosion in Alcohol Taxes Could Help Pay For Health Care Reform
Taxing High-Sugar Soft Drinks Could Help Pay For Health Care Reform (5/27/09, CBPP)
Report Highlights National Cost of Chronic Disease
The U.S. spent an estimated $1.7 trillion treating patients with one or more chronic diseases in 2007, about three-quarters of total health care spending. “The health of our nation and our economy will only improve when we move from a ‘sick-care’ system focused on treating chronic diseases to a true health care system devoted to prevention and wellness,” said former Surgeon General Richard Carmona, M.D., PFCD chairperson and president of the Canyon Ranch Institute. Reducing the prevalence of chronic disease through an increased focus on wellness is one pillar of the AHA’s framework for reform, Health for Life: Better Health. Better Health Care. The AHA is a national PFCD partner. (5/14/09, second annual Almanac of Chronic Disease by the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease)
Key Priorities to Help Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries
discusses three actions Congress should take to improve the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) and the Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) as part of health reform. (May 2009, Families USA)
Medicare: Helping Low-Income Seniors and People with Disabilities
examines the high out-of-pocket costs Medicare beneficiaries face and how health reform should improve existing programs that help them afford these costs. (May 2009, Families USA)
Continued Listings: Florida Reports
State, U.S. Hospital Rankings Differ
Judging by Florida’s online healthcare guide, Jackson Health System in Miami is among an elite group of 14 best hospitals for treating heart attacks. But a federal site shows Jackson as among the country’s worst. Which are we supposed to believe? (7/22/09, Health News Florida)
43.8 Million Americans Uninsured in 2008 include almost half of Floridians
An estimated 43.8 million Americans had no health insurance in 2008, according to a new CDC report. That’s 700,000 more people than in 2007 and 2.8 million more than in 1997. Only 56 percent of Floridians under age 65 had private health coverage last year, according to a new federal survey. One-fourth of the others were uninsured and the rest were covered by a government program.Massachusetts had the lowest percentage of uninsured residents under age 65 (3.4%), and Texas had the highest (22.9%). An estimated 8.9% of children had no health insurance, the same as in 2007 but down from 13.9% in 1997. (7/01/09, CDC)
Miami's patient co-pays highest
In a list of the 10 U.S. hospitals with the highest out-of-pocket costs for Medicare patients, six are in Miami-Dade. Note: The highest-cost hospital, Cedars Medical Center, is now University of Miami. (7/8/09, US News & World Report)
Florida Medicaid grew 13% in past year
Spurred by high unemployment, Florida Medicaid enrollment grew by more than 13 percent in the past year to 1.6 million, according to new state data. Still, only two of three Floridians who qualify for Medicaid are enrolled. (7/1/09, Health News Florida)
Florida Medicaid, KidCare enrollment up
The number of women and children enrolling in Medicaid, the safety net health care program for the poor, and KidCare is expected to rise as the state economy continues to lag, a reports says. The News Service of Florida reports that state economists spent Monday going over new forecasts for both the Medicaid program – which is funded with a combination of state and federal money – and KidCare, the state-subsidized children’s health insurance program.Those latest forecasts show an 8 percent growth in the number of pregnant women who are below the poverty line and enrolled in Medicaid during the fiscal year that ended on June 30. But that growth is expected to surge to nearly 15 percent in the coming year.The numbers are even more dramatic for children. (7/21/09, Health News Florida)
FL quality rated below average in new federal report
Quality of health care in Florida is rated “weak” or “very weak” on five of a dozen measures, with the worst scores going to diabetes and respiratory care. Florida’s strengths are in home-health care and cancer treatment, the report by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The state received an average score in five categories. (6/30/09, AHRQ)
Medicaid Reform: Legislature Should Delay Expansion Until More Information Is Available to Evaluate Success
Nearly three years into a Medicaid privatization program former [Florida] Gov. Jeb Bush said could be a national model, state officials say they do not have crucial data to measure the program's effectiveness, including how many patients' treatments and prescriptions have been approved or denied. There is "little evidence" that the program "has improved health care or saved the state money." Florida's Agency for Health Care Administration, which "oversees the pilot" told the AP in an email that due to an overhaul of their computer system, they "do not have usable data at this time." (6/2/09, OPPGA)
Malpractice Suits, Other Factors Contribute to Rise in Caesarean Births
In hospitals across the country but particularly in Florida, surgical births are becoming a given. Nearly 40 percent of Florida babies were born by C-section in 2008; in the Tampa Bay area, the rate is 38 percent. The U.S. rate in 2007 (the most recent year available) was 31.8 percent. A decade ago, the national rate was 21 percent and Florida's was 23 percent. Many doctors believe that the increase in caesarean section births in the U.S. over the last decade has been fueled by three main factors -- fear of malpractice lawsuits, a decrease in vaginal births after c-sections and rising rates of obesity. (6/17/09, St. Petersburg Times)
Nonprofits & The Economy Survey
The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties and Allegany Franciscan Ministries recently released the full results of the Nonprofits and the Economy Survey. Over 300 nonprofit organizations responded to the survey, which asked them about their current challenges, the impact the economic downturn is having on the services they offer and their most pressing funding needs. To schedule a presentation for your organization, please contact the Community Foundation at 561-659-6800 ext. 121 or kparmelee@cfpbmc.org. (May 2009, Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties and Allegany Franciscan Ministries)
Floridians 50-to-65 Losing Coverage
In Florida, the ratio of workers ages 50 to 65 who lacked health coverage in a study two years ago had tripled in this decade to 18 percent, an AARP study found. A spokesman said the numbers have doubtless grown since then because of the recession in a trend AARP views as alarming. (5/8/09, AARP in Tampa Tribune)
Medicare Fraud Prevalent In South Florida
Just 2% of Medicare beneficiaries in the U.S. live in South Florida, but the area accounted for 17% of Medicare's total spending on inhalation drugs in 2007 because of potential fraud, according to a new fraud report. (April 2009, HHS Office of Inspector General)
Reports Criticize Health Care At U.S., Florida Immigration Detention Centers
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency routinely delays, denies or provides low-quality medical care for detained immigrants in ill-equipped facilities nationwide, according to two new reports (March 2009, Human Rights Watch and the Florida Immigrant Advocacy Center)
A Closer Look at Tobacco Taxes: “Florida’s Fiscal Crisis: The Prescription”
This report recommends: Raise the cigarette tax by $1.00 per pack and increase the tax on "other tobacco products" to 100% of the wholesale price. It is estimated that this change in tax rate will add an additional $1,000.8 million to the state's recurring general revenues. (March 2009, Florida Center for Fiscal & Economic Reform)
ASTHO 2008 Florida Snapshot: Activities to Promote Health Equity
The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) has published online snapshots highlighting state activities that promote health equity. Nearly every state is represented. This online tool features an overview of each state’s health priorities, a flowchart outlining the organization and infrastructure of state departments of health, each state’s activities and/or organizations that address the social determinants of health.
Florida among 10 worst states for adult diabetes
In just one decade, Florida has gone from having one of lowest rates of adult diabetes in the country to cracking the top 10 worst, federal health officials reported Thursday. Diabetes more than tripled in Florida in the past decade while it was doubling at the national level, according to CDC. (10/31/08, South Florida Sun-Sentinel)
Florida CHAIN Issue Brief: Health Plans' Persistently Consumer-Unfriendly and Divergent "Preferred Drug List" Posting Practices Exemplify Unresolved Challenges in Medicaid Reform
As with other benefits made available under the Medicaid Reform Pilot Program, the prescription drugs covered by health plans (called Preferred Drug Lists, or PDLs) are permitted to deviate significantly from standard Medicaid. Although this flexibility has been touted as increasing consumer choice, meaningfully informed choice is still not possible given the lack of simple and direct access to usable information about those options. In particular, longstanding problems in Reform with respect to accessing plans' PDLs on-line have still not been resolved. These problems may stem from AHCA's reluctance to impose requirements ensuring clarity, accessibility and uniformity of consumer information, as well as from its apparent unwillingness to enforce even the weak requirements it has already imposed.
Dying for Coverage in Florida
More than six people die each day in Florida because they do not have health insurance. A new Families USA report is the first-ever state-specific report of its type, based on a ground-breaking national study by the Institute of Medicine, which in 2002 forged the direct link between a lack of health coverage and deaths from health-related causes. The report also finds that:Between 2000 and 2006, the estimated number of adults between the ages of 25 and 64 in Florida who died because they did not have health insurance was more than 13,600. Across the United States, in 2006, twice as many people in that same age category died from a lack of health insurance as died from homicide. (March 2008, Families USA)
HHS Failed To Show Budget Neutrality Before Approving Florida, Vermont Medicaid Waivers
HHS did not ensure that two Medicaid pilot projects in Florida and Vermont would be budget neutral before approving them. Under federal law, states can obtain a federal waiver for pilot programs to test new ways of delivering care under Medicaid if they can show that spending would not rise faster than it normally would. However, in approving the Florida and Vermont programs, "HHS approved spending limits that were higher than the limits that would have been granted if HHS had held the states to limits based on benchmark growth rates," the report found. In addition, "HHS' basis for approving the higher spending limits was not fully supported by documentation," according to GAO. (March 2008, GAO)
State of Breast Cancer Report Names Florida as One of the "Most Restrictive" for State Assisted Breast Cancer Treatment
Florida is part of a minority of states that still determines a woman ineligible for Medicaid-funded treatment unless she was screened through the state program, restricting access to care for those diagnosed elsewhere. The Florida Suncoast Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is on a mission to lobby the state legislature to change laws affecting women seeking Medicaid-funded treatment for breast cancer. The affiliate also encourages survivors, their families and the Tampa Bay community to contact their local and state representatives, urging them to revisit the laws governing breast cancer treatment. The Report provides information on advancements in diagnosis, treatment and research that have made breast cancer a survivable disease for more than 2 million people in the United States. The report also explores cultural, social, educational and financial barriers – or disparities – that prevent many people from getting screening and receiving life-saving breast cancer care. (11/26/07, Susan Komen Fdn)
Florida Funding For Safety-Net Hospitals Could Be Affected By Proposed Property Tax Cuts
Proposed cuts to Florida property taxes could reduce funding for safety-net hospitals in fiscal year 2009. The "low-income pool" of local and state tax dollars, which receives federal matching funds to reimburse hospitals that provide care to low-income and uninsured residents not covered by Medicaid, is mostly funded by ad valorem property tax revenue. Gov. Charlie Crist (R) and state lawmakers have proposed cutting those taxes this year. (1/3/08, Tampa Tribune)
Too Great a Burden: Florida Families at Risk A Report on the Impact of Healthcare Costs on Florida Families
Over the past eight years, relentless growth in health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs has made spending on health care an increasing burden. For many Floridians, this means that health care is consuming an ever-growing share of their budgets, forcing them to make difficult sacrifices in other areas so they can make ends meet. And for many hard-working families, the burden of these health care costs has become too great to bear. (Dec 2007, Families USA)
Miami-Dade Health Profiles 2007
The Health Council of South Florida released the South Miami-Dade 2007 Health Profile in fall 2007. The South-Miami Dade Health Profile is the second in a series of area Health Profiles prepared for Miami-Dade County's Office of Countywide Healthcare Planning as part of the Building Better Communities General Obligations Bond Program which seeks to improve access to primary care throughout Miami-Dade County. A Health Profile of the Miami Beach Service Area was released in July, and one focusing on the North Miami-Dade Service Area will be released in December. Comparative data is included for Miami-Dade as a whole. The profiles provide a general overview of the population, health needs and resources available in the Service Areas.
(Florida) AHCA's Annual Report on Medicaid Reform
(delivered 10/1/07)
Annie E. Casey Foundation: 18th KIDS COUNT Data Book
This is the recently released new edition of this national and state-by-state effort to track the status of children in the United States. By providing policymakers and citizens with benchmarks of child well-being, the Foundation seeks to enrich local, state, and national discussions concerning ways to secure better futures for all children. Information is also available in an online database that enables users to generate custom graphs, maps, ranked lists, and state-by-state profiles. Both the book and the online database can be accessed on the website listed above.
2007 Miami-Dade County Community Health Report Card: Health improvement through benchmarking, priority setting and leadership engagement
Intended as a “call to action” for area health care advocates and policy makers, the report assesses how well systems and institutions are meeting residents’ needs. It analyzes and synthesizes 93 health indicators, examines pervasive continuing racial and ethnic disparities, and sets targets for ten priority need areas including access to health care and coverage.
Florida Children’s Action Agenda 2007/2008 Available Online
Florida state Senators Nan Rich and Durell Peaden and Representatives Loranne Ausley and J.C. Planas have released the final recommendations of the 2006 Florida Children’s Summit. The Summit participants learned a lot, and the next Summit in Fall 2008 will reflect that. In 2008 they will spend substantially more time in workshops hashing out recommendations and will secure experienced workshop facilitators who are knowledgeable about the topics they are facilitating. Also, they will institute a process to ensure that when leaving the 2008 Summit - or very shortly thereafter - all will know the Summit recommendations.
Report looks at uninsured in Florida
This report from the Research Institute on Social and Economic Policy at FIU documents and breaks down Florida's uninsured figures, finding 18.5% of the total Florida population uninsured. The report looks at employment and industry data related to lack of coverage, and proposes a partial solution. | | |
This week, as I travelled around the state talking with health care providers, hospitals and patient advocates, I got the same message over and over. 
Read the facts that thoroughly neutralize false statements about Health Care Reform, like these: 
Administered by AHCA, the Managed Care Ombudsman Committees (MCOC’s) are voluntary organizations whose members serve as advocates for consumers with their managed health care plans. The Broward MCOC has been re-established and is handling complaints. Currently, there are three fully operational MCOC's, covering Broward, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Indian River, Lee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Sarasota, and St. Lucie Counties. 
With National Health Care Reform dominating our agendas, Florida CHAIN is now sending out bulletins to publicize national health care reform efforts all around Florida. So add us to your distribution list or forward the information to 
