Health Care Reform Update from Brain Injury Association of America
The Brain Injury Association of America asked me to post this update on this blog:
At the request of the Secretary of the Health and Human Services Department (HHS), the Institute of Medicine (IOM) is spearheading a study that will make recommendations on the criteria and methods for determining and updating the essential health benefits package, which was passed as part of the Affordable Care Act. This week, as part of the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), BIAA contributed to oral testimony delivered to IOM’s Committee of the Determination of Essential Health Benefits suggesting criteria and models for the design of the rehabilitative and habilitative benefits package.
In addition, BIAA submitted written testimony specific to brain injury that emphasized a continuum of care, including rehabilitation treatment provided in a variety of settings, as medically necessary to reach optimal recovery.
BIAA will continue to assist IOM, as they move through this process, to ensure appropriate access to care for people with brain injury is achieved as health care reform regulations take shape.
Research Appropriations Update
On January 13, 2011, The Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, with help from BIAA, Ohio State University and JFK-Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, issued a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) encouraging line-item status and increased funding for the TBI Model Systems of Care program within the soon-to-be released President’s budget.
As of now, the budget is set to be released during the week of February 14, 2011. At that time, BIAA will analyze funding levels and alert grassroots advocates when appropriations action becomes necessary.
Brain Injury Awareness Day 2011
This year, brain injury awareness day on Capitol Hill will be held on Wednesday, March 16, 2011. BIAA and other stakeholders are working with the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force to develop a schedule for the day and a theme for this year’s briefing.
