Healthcare and Government: What to Expect from the Latest Spending Bill
Government Spending Bill to Avert Shutdown
A new spending bill is expected to be released by Republicans as early as this weekend, ahead of a March 14 deadline. The stopgap measure aims to avoid a government shutdown and includes a budget blueprint that calls for $880 billion in spending cuts from the Energy and Commerce Committee. While the bill does not specifically mention Medicaid, it is expected to include cuts to the program.
Impact on Healthcare
Tom Leary, senior vice president and head of Government Relations at HIMSS, does not expect the cuts to be as drastic as the full $880 billion. However, he does not know if the bill will include an extension of telehealth and remote patient monitoring flexibilities, which expire on March 31. HIMSS has supported a permanent extension for telehealth and remote patient monitoring for years. These services allow patient care to be done in the home and have gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Uncertainty Surrounds Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring
Leary expressed confidence that telehealth will be extended, citing support from both sides of the aisle. He also highlighted the importance of responsible use of AI and cybersecurity in the healthcare industry.
Global Perspective on AI and Cybersecurity
HIMSS has identified several key focus areas for the year, including a global perspective on AI, responsible use of AI, cybersecurity, digital health transformation, and workforce development. Leary noted that the European Union has passed an AI framework, which global companies will use, and that the same is true for cybersecurity legislation.
Conclusion
The new spending bill is expected to have a significant impact on the healthcare industry, with potential cuts to Medicaid and uncertainty surrounding the extension of telehealth and remote patient monitoring flexibilities. HIMSS is keeping a close eye on the developments and advocating for responsible use of AI and cybersecurity in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the spending bill?
The spending bill aims to avoid a government shutdown and includes a budget blueprint for $880 billion in spending cuts from the Energy and Commerce Committee. - What is the impact on healthcare?
The bill may include cuts to Medicaid and uncertainty surrounding the extension of telehealth and remote patient monitoring flexibilities. - What are the key focus areas for HIMSS in 2023?
HIMSS is focusing on a global perspective on AI, responsible use of AI, cybersecurity, digital health transformation, and workforce development. - What is the European Union’s stance on AI and cybersecurity?
The European Union has passed an AI framework and cybersecurity legislation, which global companies will use.
