Sort By: Date Title   

Washington Reports: This week’s news on Healthcare Reform and Health Information Technology

Washington Reports: March 29, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “He must stop killing his own people.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration
  
• The Affordable Care Act’s First Birthday
  Cutting through the noise to revisit what the Affordable Care Act provides one year after Congress passed their landmark health reform legislation.
  
• Getting To Know You
  Examining the health reform stances of the Republicans’ most-likely nominees for President
  
• Vermont’s Single Payer Plan
  As Vermont moves a step closer to establishing America’s first universal healthcare system, the spotlight is shining on The Green Mountain State.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Playlist
  Musings on music
  

Washington Reports: March 22, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “The anxiety and anger being felt by people in Fukushima have reached a boiling point.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• The Health Implications for Japan
  Examining how healthcare will play a major role in the recovery of Japan.
  
• One Year Later
  Now one year since healthcare reform became reality, we look back at how things have changed since the landmark passage of the Affordable Care Act.
  
• What Medical Students Tell Us About the Future
  This past week was an annual “holiday” for those in the medical community as medical students around the world were notified of their residency programs. What does “Match Day” tell us about the future of healthcare?
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  

Washington Reports: March 15, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “The level seems very high, and there is still a very high risk of more radiation coming out.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• A Physician’s Perspective
  My take on the tragedy in Japan.
  
• Bye Bye Berwick?
  With the Senate and White House in a stalemate about confirming CMS Administrator Don Berwick, it appears the divisive physician’s days are numbered.
  
• The Maine Model
  What the federal government’s decision to grant Maine a medical loss ratio waiver will mean for the rest of the country.
  
• “Privacy & Security: Does it Warrant Increased Attention?” By Dave Marchand
  Dave Marchand, Dell’s Healthcare & Life Sciences Chief Technology Officer, weighs in on the health IT privacy and security debate.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  

Washington Reports: March 08, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
   “We are in a competition for influence with China.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• What to Make of the Wyden-Brown Proposal
  In a major shift this week, the White House signaled their willingness to support a measure that allows states the ability to opt out of the individual mandate by 2014 … but with a catch. What does this all mean?
  
• Tackling Medicare: A New Approach
  This past week on Capitol Hill lawmakers focused on the rising cost of Medicare as results of a new study illustrate a dangerous trend throughout the program.
  
• The Meaning of “Healthcare Reform” By Melissa Boudreault
  Melissa Boudreault, Director of State Health Services at Dell Services, weighs in on what she sees as the meaning of healthcare reform.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  

Washington Reports: March 01, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  "The suffering and bloodshed is outrageous and it is unacceptable … the entire world is watching.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration …
  
• Making Sense of the Government Shutdown
  Examining what will happen if the government actually does shut down.
  
• The Looming Fight Over Medicaid
  Medicaid is the next item to be cut in many state budgets and the White House is acting fast.
  
• A HIMSS Retrospective
  Wrapping up last week’s HIMSS conference in Orlando.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments
  
• The Weekly Playlist
  Musings on music
  
• The Good, The Bad And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga
  

Washington Reports: February 22, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “We are pleased to announce the largest federal healthcare fraud takedown in our nation's history.”
  
• A Message from Berk Smith
  Introducing The Washington Report by Dell Services. A guide on what’s new and the improvements to expect from your weekly source for health policy analysis.
  
• Introducing Dr. Harry Greenspun
  Introducing the newest author of The Washington Report, Dr. Harry Greenspun.
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration.
  
• A HIMSS Preview
  Taking a look at the major themes at this week’s annual HIMSS conference.
  
• The Budget Showdown
  Examining what the President’s newly released Federal budget includes for the healthcare community and why it indicates a major showdown is on the way.
  
• The Occasional Random Thought
  A diversion from all things healthcare.
  
• The Weekly Playlist
  Musings on music.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Good, The Bad And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga.
  

Washington Reports: February 15, 2011 ( Download)

• Quotes of the Week
  “I’m waiting for the politicians to get up and say, there’s only one way to do this. You dig into the big four: Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and defense.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• A Change of Direction: Endings and Beginnings
  A little personal news…
  
• With Health Reform Support Slipping, is the Moderate Left Finished?
  Acute observations on the impact of health reform over those in the middle and vice versa.
  
• In Defense of EHRs
  My take on an Archives of Internal Medicine study that has the entire health information industry up in arms.
  
• Data Security and the White House’s E-Mail
  This past week the White House’s e-mail went down. Why no one seemed to notice and what this says about data security.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie... ( _**** )
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: February 08, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “This is my country ... and I will die on its soil.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• The House GOP Introduces Spending Cuts: Should We Worry?
  A new bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives that would cut stimulus funding significantly. What is the impact on the health technology industry?
  
• Consolidation: Healthcare’s Newest Trend
  A discussion on what I see as one of the healthcare industry’s most significant trends.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• Readings
  Some miscellaneous articles for your reading pleasure…
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie... (_*****)
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: February 01, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “So instead of refighting the battles of the last two years, let’s fix what needs fixing and move forward.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• My Take: The State of the Union
  My thoughts on President Obama’s speech last week…
  
• Down, But Not Out: On to the Supreme Court
  In a controversial decision yesterday, a federal judge in Florida ruled that the individual mandate is unconstitutional. What does it mean?  And where do we go from here?
  
• The Wake Up Call?
  The Congressional Budget Office released an update on America’s federal deficit, and the results were not pretty.  An analysis on how the report will impact the healthcare industry.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings of foodie… ( _**** )
  
• The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: January 25, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  "The whole aim of these NHS reforms is to make sure we get the value for the money we put in … If not now, then when?  My passion for this is both personal and political.  Personal because I’ve experienced first-hand how dedicated, how professional, [and] how passionate our best public servants are … And this is a political passion – and priority – of mine too.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• How About Them Packers?
  The occasional diversion from all things healthcare…
  
• Across the Pond: “Modernization” of the National Health Service
  British Prime Minister David Cameron announced plans to shake up the National Health Service.  What does it mean for the United Kingdom, Europe and the world?
  
• The Florida Individual Mandate Lawsuit Gets Six More States to Join
  What does it mean to have more than half the states supporting the Florida lawsuit?
  
• The House Repeals Reform And The Industry Remains Silent
  So, with so much commotion on repealing healthcare reform, what was all the silence about?
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie… _****
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: January 18, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “If I were not doing what I’m doing and I wanted to do something in healthcare, I would go to all of the research universities and try to figure out where the best, interesting IT software is that can be open-sourced.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Musings From San Francisco
  My take on last week’s JP Morgan Healthcare Conference.
  
• A Harbinger of Things To Come?
  California’s new budget shows what could be in store for healthcare in many other cash-strapped states.
  
• Innovation: Everyone Is Getting In The Act
  A discussion about healthcare’s newest and most exciting new trend – innovation.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie...
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: January 11, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “The imperative is that we put a repeal bill across the floor”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• It’s So Short, I Had to Send It
  The Republican bill to repeal healthcare reform – word-for-word…
  
• The GOP’s New Healthcare Agenda
  Outside of direct repeal of the Affordable Care Act, which rules and regulations are Republicans most likely to target?
  
• Which States to Keep An Eye On
  While the national media might be focusing on Congress’ health reform efforts, much of the action will be local – at the state level.  Key debates in 2011 are highlighted.
  
• Politics Over Practicality: The Case Over End-Of-Life Planning
  In a decision widely seen as more political than practical, the Obama administration last week reversed a Medicare regulation over end-of-life planning.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk: A Double Review
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: January 04, 2011 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “This agreement is not subject to extension, not subject to alteration. It is sealed.”
  
• Indicium Brevis
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration …
  
• Is America Shifting Right or Left or Are We Bumping Into Ourselves?
  The 2010 census results could bring some alarming news for Democrats, but then again...
  
• A Winter Waiver Wonderland
  While the weather outside is frightful, many states are finding the medical loss ratio waivers so delightful.
  
• The “New” Obama Administration
  Taking a look at how the White House will look in 2011.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: December 28, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  "I never make predictions, especially about the future."
  
• Indicium Brevis XLIX
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• My 40 Predictions for 2011
  It’s that time of year so I thought I would weigh in...
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie...
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: December 15, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  There is no good reason why the average 7-Eleven uses more information technology than the average doctor's office.
  
• Indicium Brevis XLVIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Virginia Rules Against Reform, and an Update on The Other Lawsuits
  Following yesterdays ruling against the individual mandate in Virginia, we look at the major court cases challenging federal health reform that are making their way through the judicial system.
  
• A Bipartisan Doc Fix Extension Until Christmas 2011
  Senate leaders kicked the can a little further down the road by reaching a rare agreement to extend Medicare physicians pay for one year, but it sets up a significant battle for 2011.
  
• The Halfway Point
  Extending the Bush-era tax cuts marks the halfway point of President Obamas tumultuous first term. Could it also be a tipping point?
  
• Upton Arrives
  In the final piece of the leadership puzzle, Representative Fred Upton (R-MI) will become the new Chairman of the House Energy & Commerce Committee.
  
• The White House Calls For Standardization
  A new report out this past week by the White House has called for a universal exchange language for health information technology.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk A Double Review
  Musings from a foodie...
  
• Modern Healthcare Nominations
  Please help in the nominations for Modern Healthcares 50 Most Influential Physician Executives.
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: December 07, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “While there are things in this plan I dislike intensely, and, I do, there are also things in this plan that I think are grand slam home runs for the American economy and the future competitive position of our country.”
  
• The Occasional Thought
  Every once in a while…
  
• Indicium Brevis XLVII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Obama Reaches Out on Healthcare While the GOP Crafts a Plan
  President Obama met with leaders from both parties last week as the GOP began to formulate the details of their plan for healthcare reform.
  
• The Moment of Truth: Bipartisan Wrangling or Solutions – Which Is It?
  The second report from the Bowles-Simpson deficit commission holds some harsh realities for the healthcare community.
  
• The Most Significant Announcement!
  Periodically, there are announcements that slip under the radar screen…
  
• The 1099 Repeal Fails – Once Again
  Another attempt to repeal the so-called 1099 provision comes up short.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: November 30, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds.” 
  
• The Fickenscher List on “The Next 10 Things to Do” in Healthcare
  After some initial reluctance, I come forward with my “Top 10 List” of things to do…
  

Washington Reports: November 23, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  "We didn’t embrace the Republican Party.  A lot of Republicans got elected because they were in line with the principles we believe, but they are still on probation."
  
• Indicium Brevis XLVI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Is Bipartisan Collaboration On Healthcare A Possibility?
  Several bipartisan initiatives emerged last week as Congress looks for new ways of working together.  Will health reform benefit from the new bipartisanship on Capitol Hill?
  
• Round One For CMS Administrator Don Berwick
  Don Berwick got a good warm up for confirmation hearings before the Senate Finance Committee and Baucus extends an olive branch.
  
• The Doc Fix Reemerges In The Lame-Duck Session
  With Congress back in session, will policymakers fix the Medicare reimbursement formula or just pass another extension?
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• Some Readings
  As we move into the holidays, now is the time to catch up on a little reading...
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie...
  
• A Closing Thought
  In the spirit of Thanksgiving...
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: November 16, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “It's time to lay it out on the table and let the American people start to chew on it.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XLV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The First Step
  The fiscal debt commission issues a report as only the first step in a long road ahead.
  
• A Stroll Down Memory Lane
  Examining some of the top Republican healthcare ideas that made their way into Congress’ reform legislation.
  
• The GOP’s New Enforcers
  A look at the probable Republican House Committee leaders most likely to focus on the health reform issue.
  
• Health IT Funding Safe For The Time Being
  Despite a change of direction at the national level, funding for health information technology maintains strong bipartisan support.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• Rumors
  A periodic review…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: November 09, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “Tonight, there is a tea party tidal wave.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XLIV
  Ongoing snippets were taken out this week because of the volume of information coming out from the midterm elections.  It returns next week for your consideration...
  
• The Art of Psephology (pronounced see-FAH-luh-jee)
  An analysis of the 2010 midterm election results and the implications for healthcare.
  
• Re-Forming Healthcare Reform
  While Republicans may not be able to repeal health reform all together, they are likely to modify its present shape.
  
• A Focus On The States
  Beyond the races for Congress, many statewide elections will have a strong impact on the country’s agenda.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The Ongoing Saga…
  

Washington Reports: November 03, 2010

• Special Midterm Election Issue
  "If a poor kid from Searchlight can make it, anybody can make it."
  

Washington Reports: November 02, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “When we promised during the campaign “change you can believe in,” it wasn’t change you can believe in – in 18 months.  It was change you can believe in – but you know what? We're going to have to work for it.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XLIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• When Obama Met Stewart and Colbert Challenged Stewart
  President Obama discussed his legislative achievements this week with Jon Stewart in an interview for the agesfollowed by the Rally for Sanity on the National Mall with Colbert and Stewart.
  
• Truthiness
  Opinions on healthcare reform vary but the reality is getting a bit skewed.
  
• Solving the Sustainable Growth Rate
  A few ideas of how to fix one of healthcare’s biggest problems
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: October 26, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “These most recent deaths are a reminder that all Americans have to work harder to overcome bigotry and hatred.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XLII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• NAIC Approves MLR Definition
  After much contentious debate, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners finally approved their definitions for medical loss ratio.
  
• The Midterm Election Will Be Bigger Than The Anticipated Changes
  With one week remaining until the midterm elections, we consider where the elections are headed and the implications related to healthcare.
  
• Checking In On Dr. Berwick
  Considering the first few months of the new Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services…
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: October 19, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “At this stage in the litigation, this is not even a close call. Of course, to say that something is ‘novel’ and ‘unprecedented’ does not necessarily mean that it is ‘unconstitutional’ and ‘improper.’  There may be a first time for anything. But, at this stage of the case, the plaintiffs have most definitely stated a plausible claim.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XLI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Watch for the Governors, Not the Congress
  While much of the discussion has been centered on Congressional reaction to healthcare reform, the real debate is likely to be shaped by the Gubernatorial elections
  
• An “Alice In Wonderland” Defense?
  In a major victory for health reform opponents, a federal judge ruled this week that lawsuits challenging the Congressional healthcare reform initiative could continue.
  
• The Health Implications of the Chilean Mine Rescue
  Discussing the healthcare effects of the 33 trapped miners.
  
• Health IT Round Up
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: October 12, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  "It may be true in an economic sense [and] in an academic sense that the recession is over, [but] in the mind of many consumers, the recession is not over."
  
• Indicium Brevis XL
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Politics Over Principle AND Principle Over Politics
  The latest twists in the government-business community saga about low-cost health insurance plans are considered along with how the judges are beginning to weigh in on the arguments.
  
• Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) is Punted by Congress, Yet Again
  With the midterms looming, Congress breaks for recess without addressing a series of healthcare reforms.
  
• Reaching Across the Aisle
  Former lawmakers urge bipartisan collaboration in America’s toughest times.
  
• An Alternative Perspective on Outsourcing – Today’s Political Dirty Word
  A perspective on the new global world…
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: October 05, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “I believe that societies are enriched if they draw, as my country has done, from all parts of the world on a non-discriminatory basis.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXVIV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The New Prince of Pennsylvania Avenue
  Pete Rouse is President Obama’s new chief of staff. But what is his background in healthcare?
  
• Stem Cell Advances Bypass Embryos
  A new method reprograms adult cells into stem cells
  
• A Supersized Problem For Healthcare Reform Advocates
  A report claiming McDonald’s might drop health insurance coverage has everyone playing defense.
  
• What Are Bundled Payments?
  Examining one of the most discussed items in healthcare reform.
  
• The Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: September 28, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “We're still in a recession. We're not going to be out of it for awhile, but we will get out of it.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXVIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• NAIC Releases Draft MLR Recommendations
  After months of working out the details, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners released a draft of their recommendations for medical loss ratio.
  
• A Total Healthcare Blitz
  Sept. 23 marked a pivotal day for health reform implementation.
  
• The Republican “Pledge to America”
  In the same vein as “The Contract with America” in 1994, Republicans unveiled their policy agenda last week in the lead up to November elections. What does it mean for healthcare?
  
• Accountable Care Organizations Versus Medical Homes: What’s the Difference?
  A brief overview of one of the most discussed questions in healthcare today.
  
• The Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie.
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: September 21, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “China does basically whatever it wants while we grow weaker and they grow stronger. We clearly need concrete action here.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXVII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Democrats Plan Final Healthcare Push
  With less than two months remaining until the midterms, Democrats are planning a new strategy to salvage their leadership roles in the House and Senate.
  
• Congress’ Legislative Outlook
  As Congress returns from their summer recess, we examine the major healthcare issues policymakers on Capitol Hill are working on before the midterms.
  
• Does Healthcare Require Ethics Reform?
  A recent study on some physicians’ financial ties has the medical community abuzz.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: September 13, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “We will stop printing the New York Times sometime in the future, date TBD.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXVI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Are Democrats In Trouble?
  The signs are moving in the direction that the Republicans will be successful in November.
  
• CMS Says Health Spending to Increase Despite Reform
  A new report shows yet another rise in healthcare spending.
  
• Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• Random Thoughts: Neuroplasticity and The Application of Technology
  Some thoughts on how our use of technology is changing who we are…
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• A Moment of Silence
  In remembrance…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: September 07, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “The time has come to slow down, to sip rooibos tea with my wife in the afternoons, to watch cricket.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Employers Share the Opportunity
  The Kaiser Family Foundation and the Health Research and Education Trust announces a new report that shows that employees are picking up more of the cost of healthcare – something we all know…
  
• The Netanyahu – Abbas Meeting: Everything and Nothing to do with Healthcare
  A momentous meeting offers some hope…
  
• Government Issues Final Rule on Agent Orange
  After decades since its first use in Vietnam, the government released revised guidelines this week regarding health problems associated with the use of Agent Orange.
  
• A Win and a Loss for Health Reform Advocates
  Events last week in Florida and Minnesota proved to be both negative and positive for advocates of health reform.
  
• The Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: August 30, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  "We're buying shrimp, guys. C'mon."
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXIV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Ripple Effect
  The outcome of Tuesday’s primary battles in Florida and Arizona has once again changed the dynamic of a hectic election cycle.
  
• How Will HHS Approach MLR?
  Peering into the crystal ball on the government’s medical loss ratio decision
  
• A Stem Cell Surprise
  On Monday a federal judge delivered a setback for President Obama’s healthcare agenda, issuing a temporary ban on federal funding for stem cell research.
  
• The Health IT Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: August 23, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “There are two kinds of elections.  There’s sort of the Tip O’Neill all-politics-is-local, and then there are wave elections.  We’re seeing just every sign in the world that this is going to be a wave, and a pretty good-sized wave.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Gloves Come Off
  Following the so-called “Battle in Seattle” at the NAIC’s annual conference, the nation’s insurance commissioners now find themselves in a fight with the industry they oversee.
  
• Are Accountable Care Organizations The Future?
  Examining the newest idea in healthcare reform: the accountable care organization.
  
• ONC to Announce Certification Bodies Soon
  The government will soon release the names of authorized certification bodies, representing a major development related to the implementation of health information technology.
  
• A Miscellany of Health IT Developments
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Musings from a foodie.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: August 16, 2010 ( Download)

• Happy Birthday to The Washington Report!
  The Washington Report celebrates one year of health policy analysis.
  
• Quote of the Week
  “The road to recovery doesn't follow a straight line. Some sectors bounce back faster than others.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Looking Ahead
  With Congress on recess, many in Washington see the 1099 provision and medical loss ratio as the next health policy issues to be debated on Capitol Hill.
  
• The On Again – Off Again Debate
  The debate whether Congress’ health reform package will save the country money continues with Medicare’s chief actuary weighing in last week.
  
• The Health Policy Roundup
  A weekly digest of the latest health technology developments.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  A slight diversion from The Washington Report – or, musings from a foodie.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: August 09, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “This is nothing more than a snake oil salesman revisited again in a high-tech way."
  
• Indicium Brevis XXXI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Medicare Sends Democrats Some Positive News
  Two reports released last week showed how the Congressional healthcare reform package will benefit the Medicare program.
  
• Making Sense of FMAP
  After much delay the Senate defeated a Republican filibuster and passed the Federal Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) before starting recess.
  
• The Dog Days of Health Reform
  Efforts to repeal Congress’ health reform package continue to develop inside the courtroom and at the ballot box.
  
• A Miscellany of Information, or, The Health IT Roundup
  HHS, FDA, GAO, and the Tiger Team were all involved in decisions last week that impact the health information technology industry.
  
• The Weekly Whisk
  Introducing the newest addition to The Washington Report – musings from a foodie.
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: August 02, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Smoking, despite all the harm it does, is pretty much an orphan.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXX
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• An Initial Rumination – Lessons of an Incident on the Process of Communication
  The sad saga of the Shirley Sherrod incident…
  
• The Focus and Unfocus of the August Recess
  With less than 100 days until the November midterm elections, a review of where the debate seems to be headed is provided.
  
• A Pay Cut for Our Nation’s Hospitals
  Late Friday, CMS moved ahead with the planned cut for hospital reimbursement. 
  
• Health IT Heats Up In Washington
  While most industries are slowing down for the Congressional recess, health information technology is moving ahead full steam!
  
• The Race to Recess
  Congress’ annual summer recess begins next week. A look at what key health issues some policymakers are working on before the break.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: July 26, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of Week
  “Getting money for meeting ‘meaningful use’ is like having a child to get a tax deduction.”
  
• Indicum Brevis XXIX
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The von Bismarck Theorem Proves True
  After weeks of stalemate, the Senate passed an unemployment benefit expansion package void of COBRA subsidies.
  
• New Rules Help Public Appeal Insurance Denials
  On Thursday, the White House released new rules making it easier for patients to appeal the denial of an insurance claim.
  
• Despite Reform, Problems Remain
  Once a standard bearer for Congress’ healthcare bill, is beginning to face the harsh reality of their reform plans.
  
• HIPAA Rules Boost Privacy and Security
  The Department of Health and Human Services releases new rules modifying and strengthening the provisions of HIPAA.
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: July 19, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “Moving from legacy paper systems to modern information technology is a big change.  It's really a new culture, and you don't get there in one step.”
  
• Meaningful Use Webinar
  Please join my colleagues, Dr. Harry Greenspun and Tim Quigley, for a complimentary webinar on Monday afternoon discussing the recent meaningful use guidelines!
  
• Indicium Brevis XXVIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Meaningful Use Criteria Released
  On Tuesday the government released their final rules on how physicians can achieve meaningful use of health information technology.
  
• Tackling the HIV/AIDS Pandemic
  The White House released an ambitious but realistic national strategy on HIV/AIDS.
  
• Across The Pond, England Gives NHS an Overhaul
  Struggling with weak finances, the UK took steps to overhaul their health system.
  
• The Berwick Saga: The GOP Prepares To Continue Fighting His Appointment
  Despite a recess appointment, Republicans are gearing up to fight Dr. Don Berwick.
  
• The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: July 13, 2010

• Special Edition Washington Report

Washington Reports: July 12, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  "Hospitals and healthcare systems are making phenomenal strides in quality, and my optimism is very high. But, the structures are still broken. We have fragmented payment systems and fragmented institutional boundaries. The enemy is fragmentation ... Until we fix structures and finance, it is going to be very hard to make fast progress."
  
• Indicium Brevis XXVII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• My Opinion: Kudos to the Leaders for Leading
  A recess appointment by the Obama Administration has Dr. Don Berwick tasked with leading the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
  
• eHI National Progress Report
  eHealth Initiative assesses the progress made in implementing health information technology and health information exchanges.
  
• The Germans Face The Music
  Faced with a downtrodden economy, Germany is forced to raise taxes on healthcare.
  
• The Long Fall Ahead: Unfolding State Decisions
  The biggest action in politics is at the state level and it could drive change.
  
• HIT Policy Committee "Tiger Team" Announces Agenda
  The government's policy workgroup on health information privacy releases their summer projects.
  
• The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: July 06, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “We're in danger of raising the first generation who could live sicker and die younger than the generation before them.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXVI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Celebrating Our Nation’s Independence
  July Fourth is a great chance to reflect on our historic beginnings.
  
• HHS Launches Healthcare.gov
  The new government website launched with considerable anticipation.
  
• A Tribute to Senator Robert C. Byrd
  Examining how the late Senator Byrd impacted healthcare.
  
• Repeal Efforts Lose Momentum
  Efforts to repeal the Congressional health reform package experienced setbacks last week.
  
• HIT Policy Committee Approves Tiger Team Recommendations
  The government’s health technology workgroup moves forward on examining privacy and security recommendations.
  
• Reengineering Healthcare
  Changing healthcare is important – two colleagues show the way…
  
• Some Random Holiday Thoughts
  The Congressional recess allowed all of us to get out of Washington and reflect just a bit…
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: June 28, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “War is bigger than any one man or woman ... As difficult as it is to lose Gen. McChrystal, I believe it is the right decision for our national security.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Battle Continues
  Many states are still resisting the government’s health reform measures.
  
• CBO Forecasts a High-Risk Problem
  Congress’ budget analysts released an updated cost estimate on the nation’s high-risk insurance pool program.
  
• A Scathing Report on American Healthcare
  The Commonwealth Fund released their findings on a comparison of American healthcare to six other developed countries.  It’s not pretty…
  
• The Anatomy and Physiology of American Political Theater – The “Doc Fix”
  After much drama, Congress finalized plans to prevent a Medicare payment cut for physicians.
  
• Across the Pond the Chancellor of the Exchequer Shifts the Focus
  Changes in the U.K. budget put the squeeze on spending to reduce the deficit.
  
• The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: June 21, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Only politically toxic cuts or rationing of medical care, a marked rise in the eligible age for health and retirement benefits, or significant inflation, can close the deficit.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXIV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Are Doctors the Problem?
  A new report calls out the need for teaching physicians more about safer patient care.
  
• Fighting Our Primary Care Crisis
  The government this week announced it would spend $250 million to increase the number of doctors and care providers.
  
• The Senate Barely Dodges the Doc Fix Bullet
  Efforts to prevent a cut in reimbursements to Medicare physicians passed at the last minute on Friday afternoon.
  
• National Health IT Week Hits Washington
  Representatives on behalf of the country’s largest information technology companies blanketed Capitol Hill this week.
  
• The Office of the National Coordinator Moves Forward
  The ONC’s newest privacy and security workgroup convened for the first time and they issued a final rule on temporary EHR certification.
  
• Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Powerful People in Healthcare
  Vote early, vote often!
  
• The Impact of Health Reform on States
  Please join Dell for a complementary webinar on the impact of health reform on states.
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: June 14, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Over and over again we begin by looking to the president as the solution to all our problems, and we end up believing he’s the source of all our problems.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Women Win Big!
  Only a handful of outsiders emerged victorious in the primaries last week – and they were all women.
  
• The Health Implications for the World Cup
  Analyzing the public health aspects of the world’s most popular sporting event.
  
• Washington Takes on the SGR, the FMAP, and Promulgates the 72 Hour Rule
  Many roll up their sleeves to tackle healthcare’s most pressing issues.
  
• The West Virginia Health Insurance Exchange (HIE) Launches Along with Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) in Three States
  An HIE on every front and a suggested approach to clarifying the difference.
  
• ONC Creates New Privacy Team
  The government health technology leaders establish a new workgroup on privacy and security.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: June 07, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Rising health costs will put tremendous pressure on the federal budget during the next few decades and beyond. In CBO's judgment, the health legislation enacted earlier this year does not substantially diminish that pressure.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Community Health Data Initiative
  Technology takes center stage in the government’s new health information project.
  
• A Healthcare Splash Hits Washington
  Two reports this week on the cost of healthcare caused a major splash in our nation’s capitol.
  
• The Health Implications of an Oil Spill
  Analyzing the health effects the Gulf of Mexico oil spill will have on the region.
  
• A Medical Loss Delay
  Health insurers will have to wait a little longer for the new rules on medical loss ratio limits.
  
• HHS Releases More Stimulus Funds to Promote Health IT
  The government this week awarded $83.9 million to expand the use of health information technology.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: June 01, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  A Quote from History:  “If you think about some of the decisions the present president is making – it is going to be a kindergarten class compared to the decisions some future president is going to have to make.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XXI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• A Global Economic Update
  While growth is up, the budgets are going down…
  
• A Strikeout Instead of a Grand Slam for the Doc Fix on Capitol Hill
  After a week of debate, Congress left for Memorial Day without passing changes to the doc fix.
  
• More Beacon Communities Announced
  The government announced an additional $30.3 million for two new Beacon Communities.
  
• Kaiser Family Foundation’s New Medicaid Study
  The nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation released some interesting perspectives that are likely to result from the expansion of Medicaid in the health reform package.
  
• Perfecting Healthcare: West Virginia’s GO HELP
  The sixth and final installment in a series examining how different states are working on unique plans to perfect healthcare.
  
• The History of Memorial Day
  Giving thanks to our troops on the week of our country’s annual holiday.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: May 24, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  "I have a message from the Tea Party, a message that is loud and clear and does not mince words: We have come to take our government back."
  
• Indicium Brevis XX
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Churn of Congressional Politics Part II: Incumbents Succumb to Newcumbents
  This week's election results across the country are sending a clear message to our leaders in Washington.
  
• The Doc Fix Likely to Get Another Temporary Fix
  Democrats begin debating how to handle the looming drop in Medicare payments.
  
• A "Medical Loss" Conundrum
  How industry and interest groups continue to influence health reform.
  
• A View From Across the Pond
  Lessons learned from our cousins, the Brits...
  
• The Age of the Instant: The Rise of Social Media
  It's no longer just a fad. Social media continues to revolutionize our society.
  
• Perfecting Healthcare: Mississippi's POWER
  The fifth installment in a six-part series examining how different states are working on their own unique plans to perfect healthcare.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga...
  

Washington Reports: May 17, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “I’m creating a team due to the avalanche of requests.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XIX
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• More Information on Healthcare Reform
  Some additional reading and listening material on healthcare reform…
  
• CBO Adjusts the Cost of Health Reform
  The Congressional Budget Office said this week that the country’s health reform legislation would cost more than previously thought, pushing the total cost to more than $1 trillion.
  
• The Churn of Congressional Politics
  Both the elected and the appointed come under attack in the ongoing battle for control of Capitol Hill…
  
• Home Genetic Testing and the FDA
  Examining the discussion Walgreens sparked this week.
  
• Perfecting Healthcare: Indiana Kicks the Habit
  The fourth installment in a six-part series examining how different states are working on their own unique plans to perfect healthcare.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: May 10, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “…Politicians should never underestimate the power of voters to disappoint them.”
  
• A Deep Dive On Healthcare Reform
  We’ve prepared an in-depth analysis of the health reform bill for your reading pleasure…
  
• Indicium Brevis XVIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• As Healthcare Reform Moves to the States There’s More Political Debate
  The first major sign of health reform’s passage has started as states are deciding whether to participate in the government’s high-risk insurance pool.
  
• Obey Joins the Growing List of Congressional Retirees
  After 41 years in office, the House Appropriations Chairman decides to hang it up…
  
• Perfecting Healthcare: Oregon’s Health Authority
  The third installment in a six-part series examining how different states are working on their own unique plans to perfect healthcare.
  
• CMS Weighs in on Healthcare Spending
  A recent report from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Chief Actuary has everyone talking.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: May 05, 2010

• Special Edition: In-depth analysis on the healthcare reform bill

Washington Reports: May 03, 2010 ( Download)

• A Survey on The Washington Report
  Please take our brief survey on what you would like to see in The Washington Report.
  
• Quote of the Week
  “After stopping a terrorist with a weapon of mass destruction, this is the single most important issue we confront as a nation.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XVII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• An Unplanned Visit to Greece
  Are we headed economically in the same direction as our friends in Greece?
  
• An American Observation on the Upcoming British Election
  Britain will elect a new Commons next week, and everyone is waiting…
  
• Perfecting Healthcare – Vermont’s Blueprint
  The second installment in a six-part series examining how different states are working on their own unique plans to perfect healthcare.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: April 26, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “November is going to be tough. It is always a tough race if you're the incumbent in this kind of economic environment. Even though it is picking up, people are still hurting.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XVI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• And, CMS Gets a Leader
  Don Berwick, MD to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services…
  
• The Week The Earth Stood Still
  How the Icelandic volcano’s eruption impacted healthcare.
  
• The Impact of Healthcare Reform on States
  A break down on how Congressional healthcare reform will cause change at the local level
  
• Perfecting Healthcare: Florida’s Medicaid Reform
  In a new six-part series I examine how different states are working on their own unique plans to perfect healthcare.
  
• A Month After Health Reform
  Breaking down the major developments in health reform a month after Congress passed their sweeping changes.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: April 19, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “China and the United States share the same overall goal on the Iranian nuclear issue.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• A Summit of Leaders
  The effect of the landmark summit on nuclear security in Washington.
  
• Our Growing Doctor Shortage
  The lack of primary care physicians is one of the largest threats to America’s medical community.
  
• HIT Policy Committee Makes Recommendations on Meaningful Use
  The government’s workgroup on health technology weighs in on meaningful use.
  
• Polio Eradication: The Conquest of Technology over Disease
  As the 55^th anniversary of the first polio vaccine passes, a short retrospective is offered.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: April 12, 2010 ( Download)

• Quotes of the Week
  “There's going to be a whale of a fight if he appoints an activist to the court. That's not good for him, it's not good for the Senate, it's not good for the country.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XIV
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• A Supreme Change
  Justice Stevens announced his retirement from the penultimate legal bench.
  
• The Ultimate Insiders Prepare to Go Outside When It Should be FOSAP (Focusing On Solving America’s Problems)!!
  Want to run for political office? Just frame your message against Washington. 
  
• The Door Closes on the Reagan Revolution
   Health reform ushered in more than just a change in our nation’s healthcare system.
  
• The Roadmap to Victory: President Obama’s Second Term
  Breaking down how the White House is likely to proceed in its attempt at reelection in 2012 after hitting rock bottom during healthcare reform.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: April 05, 2010 ( Download)

• Want to Subscribe to the Washington Report?
  Our new subscription tool has been launched at The Washington Report homepage.
  
• Quote(s) of the Week
  “There's still going to be a group at their core that question my legitimacy.”
  
• Indium Brevis XIII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• The Court Battles Following the Congressional Battles
  Will the legal challenges prevail, or are we facing partisan battles – on another front?
  
• Will the FCC’s National Broadband Plan Work?
  The Federal Communications Commission recently unveiled the new National Broadband Plan for expanding U.S. Internet access. Will the plan be everything it is being heralded as?
  
• What Healthcare Reform Means for Nurses
  Analyzing the effect of healthcare reform on the country’s nurse force.
  
• Will the FDA Help Certify EHR Technology?
  The government’s health technology workgroup is debating whether or not the Food and Drug Administration should be involved in certifying electronic health records.
  
• Obama’s Shift Toward the Middle
  The President’s new offshore drilling policy is more than just an energy policy.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: March 29, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  Captured in the moment for posterity…
  
• Indicium Brevis XII
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration…
  
• Unacceptable Behavior
  As a nation, we are built on the notion that all perspectives should be shared.  We have not – and will not – accept behavior that borders on barbarism…
  
• The Anti-Climatic Climax
  While the healthcare reform debate may be over, the long and winding road toward implementing the changes proposed in the legislation has only just begun.
  
• What Healthcare Reform Means for Your Doctor (Long Term)
  Analyzing the effect of healthcare reform on your doctor’s office.
  
• Occasional Random Thoughts
  Thoughts from places other than Washington…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: March 22, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “President Roosevelt passed Social Security. Lyndon Johnson passed Medicare. Today, Barack Obama will pass health-care reform.”
  
• Indicium Brevis XI
  Ongoing snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• It’s Over – Almost. But, Then Again – Not Quite.
  The House passed their healthcare reform reconciliation bill on Sunday.  Following months of debate the journey is almost over.
  
• Singing on Sunday
  And, the final tally came out…
  
• HHS Announces Additional Funding For “Meaningful Use”
  This week, the Department of Health and Human Services announced an additional $162 million to fund “meaningful use.”
  
• A Supreme Indication
  Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens indicated this week that he is likely the next member of the court to retire, an announcement that could come as early as this summer.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  
• Special Edition: Health Reform Summary from Dell Services Thought Leadership
  House Passes Healthcare Reform Bill
  

Washington Reports: March 19, 2010 ( Download)

• How and Who – The Final Countdown to Reform
  Is this the last week of the current healthcare reform package?
  

Washington Reports: March 15, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “We will have at least one week to have our own conversations. But it is not something that we’re going to draw out. The choice has to be made.”
  
• Indicium Brevis X
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Reconciling Reconciliation
  On Sunday evening, the House released their “shell” reconciliation report
  
• A Massa Mess
  Another black eye for the Democratic Party while Republican momentum continues to build.
  
• And, the Ides of March Are Upon Us!
  Healthcare reform still has not passed. Will we ever see it happen?
  
• The Midterm Microscope
  The second installment of my ongoing look at the 2010 midterm elections.
  
• How Low Can He Go?
  A new Gallup poll this week shows Obama at his lowest point since being elected.
  
• Proposed Rules for EHR Certification Released
  Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services released their proposed rules for establishing certifications programs for health information technology.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: March 08, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “This bill, this giant bill, on health care -- this asteroid headed towards Earth -- is sitting in the House of Representatives. “
  
• Indicium Brevis IX
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• March Madness Has Everyone Shaking Their Head
  Obama’s final push for healthcare reform kicks off some “March Madness” in Washington
  
• A 51 Senate Vote for Healthcare Reform – To “Reconcilliate” or Not
  A look at reconciliation’s not so distant past
  
• Principles Over Politics?
  The interesting debate that Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY) sparked this week.
  
• In Defense of Insurance Companies…
  And so, the change guy thinks we’re not considering all the facts…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: March 01, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “…the [economic] crisis has shattered faith…they failed Keyne’s test that it is better to be roughly right than exactly wrong.”
  
• Indicium Brevis VIII
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Obama Healthcare Plan
  Breaking down the key points of the White House healthcare blueprint…
  
• The White House Healthcare Summit
  A Summit Stalemate at Blair House
  
• Bipartisanship: Washington’s Endangered Species
  This week the Senate cleared a procedural hurdle to pass the chamber’s jobs bill.
  
• FDA Tackles 510(k) Process
  The Food and Drug Administration convened a meeting to examine the medical device approval process.
  
• Government Expands Role in Health IT
  The Department of Health and Human Services announced the newly created position of Chief Privacy Officer while the White House called for a new health IT task force
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: February 22, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “It is vital for our economy to change how healthcare works in this country. Don't let the American people go another year, another 10 years, another 20 years without health insurance reform in this country."
  
• Indicium Brevis VII
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Health Reform: Back to the Future
  Given the current environment, where can we expect healthcare reform to go?  It all comes down to E-I-E-I-Oh-Oh – a less than objective view on what we need to do…
  
• HIT Policy Committee Relaxes Meaningful Use Requirements
  In their monthly meeting, the HIT Policy Committee recommended relaxing the standards related to meaningful use criteria.
  
• Midterm Microscope
  In a new ongoing series for The Washington Report, I examine the 2010 midterm elections.
  
• Battle at Blair House
  This week, President Obama will host Congressional leaders at the White House Healthcare Summit. What is likely to happen at this important meeting?
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: February 15, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “Bipartisanship depends on willingness among both Democrats and Republicans to put aside matters of party for the good of the country…What I will not do, what I don't think makes sense and I don't think the American people want to see, would be another year of partisan wrangling around these issues.”
  
• Indicium Brevis VI
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Secret Weapon Is Unleashed
  The most powerful weapon of the Obama Administration comes forward…
  
• The Appearance and The Reality
  President Obama announced this week his intention to host a televised bipartisan healthcare summit on February 25^th. What are the ramifications for this important meeting?  And, what’s really going on?
  
• The Republican Healthcare Alternatives
  A review of what the Republicans are proposing in the ongoing healthcare reform debate.
  
• Snow (not Snowe) Postpones the Jobs Bill
  The impact of health information technology, Medicare, the “doc fix”, COBRA, and hospitals included in Congress’ proposed jobs bill are considered.
  
• Be Careful What You Ask For – Now Health Info Tech Needs to Come Through
  Nearly $1 billion in ARRA awards to help health care providers advance the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology were announced!!
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The ongoing saga…
  

Washington Reports: February 08, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  "This is not a one-year Congress. This is a two-year Congress and we have had a number of extensive meetings of trying to come up with a path forward. We are going to move forward on health care. We're going to do healthcare reform this year."
  
• Indicium Brevis V
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The Storm of the Century – A Precursor of Things to Come?
  An update on where Congressional healthcare reform debate stands…
  
• The Long and Winding Road … Don’t Leave Me Waiting Here, Or The New Federal Budget
  Examining the healthcare ramifications of Obama’s new $3.83 trillion federal budget.
  
• An ARRA Loophole?
  The enhanced availability of Bank-Qualified Bonds could turn 2010 into a very successful year for not-for-profit medical groups.
  
• Politics vs. Movements: Revisited
  Thinking about the Tea Party Convention: is it politics or a new movement?
  
• The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
  The weekly saga continues…
  

Washington Reports: February 01, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
   “We have to recognize that we face more than a deficit of dollars right now. We face a deficit of trust: deep and corrosive doubts about how Washington works that have been growing for years…Here's what I ask Congress, though:  Don't walk away from reform.  Not now.  Not when we are so close.  Let us find a way to come together and finish the job for the American people. Let's get it done.”
  
• Indicium Brevis IV
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• The State of the Union Repositions the Healthcare Reform Debate
  Wednesday night was President Obama’s first State of the Union address. And, the implications for healthcare reform?
  
• Jobs, Jobs, Jobs…But What About Healthcare?
  With jobs and the economy set to take the White House’s top domestic priority, healthcare reform still has yet to disappear.
  
• And, What About the Promise of e-Health?
  eHealth Initiatives – a broad-based advocacy group – issued their 2009 survey last week on health information exchange initiatives across the country.  The results are telling…
  
• A Hatchet When You Need A Scalpel?
  This past week President Obama announced a new three-year spending freeze on government spending.  Is a freeze enough?  Will it make a difference?
  
• The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly (and…The Remarkable)
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: January 25, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  "If you lose Massachusetts and that’s not a wake-up call, there’s no hope of waking up.”
  
• Indicium Brevis III
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Blue Goes Brown and The Tea Party Moves from Concept to Reality
  Breaking down the numbers in last Tuesday’s special election.
  
• Mr. Brown Goes to Washington
  Just like the 1939 classic, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, a virtual outsider is heading to our nation’s capital. What does it mean for healthcare reform?
  
• A Supreme Decision
  This week the Supreme Court struck down the long-standing limit on corporate spending in U.S. political campaigns. With the 2010 midterms looming, Thursday’s decision is a major development that will undoubtedly shape public opinion on healthcare.
  
• Dell Services Educational Webinar Regarding Meaningful Use
  Take advantage of this free service offered by Dell Services.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  
• Some More Random Thoughts and Miscellany
  I know I’m an advocate for the “middle” but it’s increasingly obvious…
  

Washington Reports: January 18, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Politicians who think that working people have it too good – too much health care, too much Social Security and Medicare, too much power on the job – are inviting a repeat of 1994.”
  
• Indicium Brevis II
  Ongoing brief snippets of information for your consideration...
  
• Welcome Back, Welcome Back, Welcome Back…
  Think 70’s sitcom theme song for “Welcome Back, Kotter.”  Well, you get the drift…
  
• Alphabet Soup at the White House
  The AFL-CIO, NEA, UFCW, AFT, SEIU, LIUNA, AFSCME, CWE, and IBEW all met this week at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue to talk healthcare.
  
• When It Rains, It Pours
  With Democrats now latched on to healthcare reform, the party has been forced to aggressively play defense.
  
• Your Current Cheat Sheet for Healthcare Reform
  Breaking down where the main sticking points currently stand…
  
• Meaningful Use: An Update for Meeting Federal Incentive Payments
  Take advantage of a complimentary update on Meaningful Use by two of my colleagues.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  
• Random Thoughts and Miscellany from Too Much Travel
  I’ve clearly had too much travel time.  I’m over my six page limit and, have more to say…
  

Washington Reports: January 11, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  One thing I’ve found in Congress is that if there is no urgency, things don’t get done. Deadlines and crises are the very nature of how legislation passes.
  
• Indicium Brevis
  The “Factoid” Becomes the “Indicium Brevis”
  
• What Do You Want?
  With everyone back in Washington following the holiday season, it seems that all the major players want something as the healthcare reform debate moves to the next stage…
  
• Meaningful Use Guidelines
  A more in-depth look at the meaningful use guidelines set forth by the Office of the National Coordinator.
  
• A Look Ahead…
  While healthcare has been a dominant theme throughout the Fall in our nation’s capitol, we should anticipate that attentions will shift as we move into an election year…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  

Washington Reports: January 04, 2010 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “State legislatures can't be mandated by the federal government to do anything.”
  
• Factoid of the Week
  Ongoing pieces of information we need to consider in healthcare.
  
• A “Doc Fix” Delay
  Lost in the news with the Senate passing their reform plan was a temporary extension of the so-called “doc fix.”
  
• Meaningful Use Definitions Released by ONCHIT
  The deadline was New Year’s Eve and the Office of the National Coordinator met it by issuing new regulations on “meaningful use” – a very long-awaited and important step…
  
• Republicans Organize a Healthcare Reform Challenge
  Over the holidays, the Republicans were busy developing several new tactics for challenging the healthcare reform winding its way through Congress…
  
• Are EHRs Falling Short, Or Are We Deploying Them Incorrectly?
  The latest in a series of articles on Electronic Health Records (EHRs) points us in the wrong direction – from my perspective…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The continuing saga…
  
• An Occasional Random Thought
  It’s always interesting what you come across when you travel and learn about the notable points of importance in places across the world.
  

Washington Reports: December 28, 2009 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  “I have never used Twitter.”
  
• Factoid of the Week
  Perhaps, we’re now going to end a very costly approach to healthcare services.
  
• Twas the Day After Christmas – And, I Woke Up Too Early
  Following a late Christmas Eve, I awoke too early for the rest of the family and spent a bunch of hours reviewing the areas of agreement and potential sticking points between the Senate and House versions of the healthcare reform bills.  The review extended into the weekend. So, here are my thoughts.  I might as well send them out as keep them in my files...
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Washington Reports: December 21, 2009 ( Download)

• Quote(s) of the Week
  “Now, let’s be clear. The final bill won’t include everything that everybody wants. No bill can do that. But … we simply cannot allow differences over individual elements of this plan to prevent us from meeting our responsibility to solve a longstanding and urgent problem for the American people.”
  
• Twas the Christmas Before Healthcare Reform
  A Paraphrase on the Original Poem – “Twas the Night Before Christmas” – by Clement Moore
  
• Factoid of the Week
  Ongoing pieces of information we need to consider in healthcare…
  
• Let’s Make a Deal!
  This week, Obama again became intricately involved in the Congressional healthcare debate, cutting deals with Democrats that will undoubtedly change the country’s insurance reform.
  
• A Quick Analysis
  The manager’s amendments are where all the goodies are contained.  We haven’t yet had time to do a full analysis, but here are a few items for your consideration…
  
• A Little Holiday Reading
  Just a little reading for the history and policy wonks among us…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Washington Reports: December 14, 2009 ( Download)

• Quote of the Week
  "The whole Medicare thing raises 100,000 questions.”
  
• Factoid of the Week
  What would happen if we banned smoking on sidewalks?
  
• The Myth of the Phoenix Reborn as the New Medicare
  The public option was quietly laid aside as the Senate considered an expansion of Medicare as an alternative. 
  
• Should We “Buy Into” the Medicare Plan?
  Making sense of the Senate’s proposed Medicare “buy-in”
  
• Amendments, Amendments, and Amendments
  A slew of amendments were proposed last week, and more will come next…
  
• The Looming Pandemic…
  As we consider healthcare reform, others are considering events that would make the politics of Washington, DC irrelevant…
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
• A Little Reading for the Holidays…
  It’s always good to learn the thoughts of others and here are some readings…
  

Washington Reports: December 07, 2009

• Quote of the Week
  “We’ve never had so much transparency on a piece of legislation … They (the Republicans) want this – as one Senator recently said – to be Obama’s Waterloo.  It isn’t going to happen.”
  
• Factoid of the Week
  I started a new feature this week for the Report where we consider an interesting fact about our healthcare system or, on occasion, other considerations.  So today, a bit of both.
  
• Politics vs. Movements
  Is the country experiencing new movement in healthcare reform or is it just politics as usual?
  
• MIT and CBO Offer Some Homework
  This week both Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)and the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO)released reports on how premiums will change as a result of healthcare reform, instantly giving both parties talking points as the debate reaches the Senate floor.
  
• Let the Games Begin…
  Last week saw the Senate debate on healthcare reform begin in earnest. With a slew of amendments on the docket, Democrats hope to pass their plan before Christmas.
  
• An Alternative Public Option?
  There is little doubt that the current public option proposal in the Senate will pass as written, but how it will change is still anyone’s guess.
  
• And, When It Gets Close
  And, President Obama weighs in…
  
• HHS Announces New HIT Funding and New Regulations
  This week, HHS unveiled plans to fund the Beacon Community Cooperate Agreement Program.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Washington Reports: November 30, 2009

• Quote(s) of the Week
  "To the future that beckons all of us, let us answer its call. And let our two great nations realize all the triumphs and achievements that await us."
  
• A Quiet Week to Consider Healthcare Reform’s Hidden Traps
  In the spirit of looking at the bigger picture, let’s examine some of the hidden long-term consequences that could come from the healthcare reform efforts on Capitol Hill.
  
• Chuck Grassley Offers The Republican Perspective in the NEJM
  Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) offered an interesting editorial in last week’s New England Journal of Medicine. It is certainly worth a read. If you believe in bi-partisanship, it’s mandatory.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
• An Occasional Random Thought…
  Thanksgiving is always a time of reflection, and this year was no different than the past.
  
• Some Miscellany from the Edges
  It’s amazing what you think of when you’re at 40,000 feet and are not connected to email, voicemail, Twitter, or the other thousand distractions of life…
  

Washington Reports: November 23, 2009

• Quote of the Week
  “It’s going to be a holy war”
  
• The Reid Plan Unfolds and Now Goes to the Senate Floor for Debate
  Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) finally released the draft of the Senate healthcare reform plan.  How does it compare to the House version? Are there enough votes for it to pass?
  
• All Is Fair In Love and War
  This week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid released a report slamming the House’s healthcare reform bill. Though some cried foul, all is fair in love and war.
  
• Elsewhere in Washington…
  This week also saw activity on the proposed “doc fix” changes on Capitol Hill.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
• Miscellany from Around the World…
  Lots of reports were issued by lots of groups this week.  In my travels to various places this past week, I thought I’d pass along some interesting tidbits.  Here’s a catch all…
  
• Be Thankful
  Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to reflect upon the good in your life, but for those without health insurance, it can be a time of great uneasiness.
  

Washington Reports: November 16, 2009

• Quote of the Week
   “The President could take a few pages from Lyndon Johnson’s book … and start knocking heads together.”
  
• The Aftermath
  In the wake of last weekend’s vote by the House of Representatives, many are still feeling a harsh backlash from activists.
  
• The Yogi Berra Truism Rings True!!
  With the healthcare debate over in the House, many are concerned that having the Senate pass such a bill will prove to be a much more difficult task.
  
• Harry Reid’s Hurdles
  Senate Democrats must convince key colleagues to join them in voting for the final Senate healthcare bill.  So, who stands where?  What are their concerns?  Will they block the effort? 
  
• Clinton Gives a Pep Talk
  Former President Bill Clinton appeared on Capitol Hill Tuesday to speak with Senate Democrats. Is Clinton trying to avoid history repeating itself?
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The good, the bad, and the ugly of politics continue…
  
• Some Closing Thoughts…

Washington Reports: November 09, 2009

• An Update on the Report
  Postings of the Weekly Washington Report now available on the Web.
  
• “We Get By With A Little Help from Our Friends”
  In a rare Saturday vote, the House passed their healthcare reform bill as a result of some key developments this week from a few friends.
  
• Election '09
  Tuesday’s election saw big wins for the Republican Party in Virginia and New Jersey. What are the implications for healthcare reform?
  
• Republicans Propose a Bill with a Side of Tea
  This week saw the re-emergence of Republicans in the healthcare debate. What effect does the GOP still have in the reform efforts in Congress?
  
• Next Steps?
  What are the next steps in the journey to the passage of healthcare reform?
  
• Are We Doing Enough?
  While Congress is making significant changes to our country’s healthcare, many analysts in Washington are concerned the efforts are not going far enough.
  
• The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
  The Continuing Saga of American Politics…
  

Washington Reports: November 03, 2009

• Quote(s) of the Week
• Happy Birthday to the Internet
  The birth of the Internet heralded a revolution that continues to unfold in our daily lives.
  
• A Healthcare Rough Draft
  The US House released the Affordable Health Care for America Act on Thursday. While the final bill will no doubt change, the directions are becoming clearer.
  
• The Moderates Expand the Middle, Preparing to Take Back Center Stage
  With Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announcing his plan to put forward a public option, the moderates respond.  At the forefront – Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT).
  
• The Road to Final Passage
  Let’s examine the steps required for the Reid team to pass a healthcare reform package.
  
• HIT Policy Committee Meeting
• The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly of Politics Continues…
• And, The Rest of the World?
  I’ve just returned from a visit overseas.  At times, it is useful to step back from the issues of the day – in Washington, DC – to consider the focus of other places.  Here’s a few thoughts...
  

Washington Reports: October 26, 2009

• So, Let’s Start with the Important Stuff…
  H1N1 is gripping the nation.  Don’t panic – get your flu shot!!
  
• Is the Public Option A Ghost, A Goblin, A Vampire or The Real Thing?
  The public option appears to be back from the dead, but what will it look like?
  
• It’s Not Dark, But The Oval Office Has Been Mighty Quiet – On Healthcare Reform
  After months of serving as the face of healthcare reform, President Obama backed away from the latest round of negotiations.
  
• Elsewhere on Capitol Hill: The Doc Fix and Antitrust Reform
  Equally as important measures, the doc fix and antitrust reform efforts played a major role in healthcare reform this week.
  
• Politics – with a Capital “P” – Comes to the Fore, Again…
  The good, the bad, and the ugly of politics continues…
  
• Questions and Answers
  One basic question still remain unanswered – “What is the (Senate)Committee planning on clinicians participation and adoption for CPOE to ensure a paradigm shift to 100 percent Electronic Medical Records (EMR) in the USA?”
  
• A Closing Thought…

Washington Reports: October 19, 2009

• Before I Get Started/Quote of the Week
• It’s Snowe-ing in The District
  This week, the Senate Finance Committee passed their healthcare reform bill with the help of Republican Senator Olympia Snowe. What does this mean for the ongoing debate on Capitol Hill?
  
• Are Democrats Singing a New Tune?
  With the Senate Finance debate out of the way, what lies ahead for Congressional Democrats? Have they been changing their tune?  Can they play nice together?
  
• Remembering Harry and Louise
  In a surprise attack on Monday, the health insurance industry released a scathing report on the Senate Finance Committee bill.  Will this hurt the ongoing efforts?
  
• Will the Doctor’s Hang in There?
  Where are the doctors in the whole debate?  What do they want?  Will they get it?
  
• The House Goes on a Diet – Are We at the Crossroads or the Divide?
  The Speaker prepares to answer the call of the Senate Finance Committee with a set of options designed to meet needs in the House and fulfill long sought promises.  What are the implications?
  
• And the New Players Are?
  With the passage of a reform package by all of the Senate and House Committees, the action now moves to the floor for both groups.  Who are the new players?  What impact will they have the healthcare reform debate?
  
• Politics – with a Capital “P” – Comes to the Fore, Again…
  The good, the bad, and the ugly of politics in continues…
  
• HIT Standards Committee Meeting
  On the more mundane – but just as important – side of healthcare reform, critical issues are being debated…
  
• The Occasional Random Thought…
  Every once in awhile, my mind drifts to other topics that relate to but are separate from the news in .  I’ll keep my comments brief and, hopefully, on target. If not, I’m sure you’ll let me know…
  

Washington Reports: October 12, 2009

• CBO Scores One for Senate Finance Committee
  The Congressional Budget Office released their score on the Senate Finance Committee’s healthcare bill. How will the score impact the ongoing debate?
  
• Are We Going Far Enough, Fast Enough?
  With all of the focus on insurance, many are becoming increasingly critical of whether or not “reform” has been lost in the debate.  Does the Senate bill do enough?
  
• Are Any Good Ideas Out There?
  What are the pundits saying?  What about this “laboratories of democracy” thing?  Are there any themes emerging?
  
• Politics (that’s with a capital “P”) Comes to the Fore
  The good, the bad, and the ugly of politics in America continues.
  
• What’s Next?
  A look at the week ahead in healthcare reform.
  
• Quote of the Week

Washington Reports: October 05, 2009

• The Moderates Seize Control!!
  The Senate Finance Committee rejected two separate proposals for creating a publicly funded health insurance option as part of their healthcare reform bill. What are the implications?  What are the Committee’s objectives?
  
• Further Senate Finance Developments and the Shift of Center Stage
  The Senate Finance Committee finalized their package in the wee hours Friday morning.  Other changes, aside from the public option, are now moving forward, and Senator Harry Reid takes center stage.
  
• Keeping It All in Perspective
  As Senator Dirksen (R-IL) observed many years ago, “A million here, a million there, and pretty soon you’re talking real money.”  So, now we’re talking billions!
  
• What’s Happening Outside the Senate?
  Not to be forgotten, the House awaits a discussion with the Senate. 
  
• Polls, Polls, Polls: Where does the public really stand?
  Every week, new data is released discussing public opinion of the ongoing healthcare debate. But can we really trust these polls?
  
• HHS To Release Health IT Funding
  The Department of Health and Human Services announced new health IT grants.
  
• Fall is in the Air
• Quote(s) of the Week

Washington Reports: September 28, 2009

• Oh, By the Way, Mr. President – Are We Doing Too Much?
  How many initiatives can Obama take on?  Are there healthcare reform implications?
  
• The Tortoise and the Hare
  With other healthcare plans moving rapidly through Congress, the Baucus Bill this week began the arduous markup process within the Senate Finance Committee. Will this “slow and steady” approach win the race?
  
• All Hands on Deck
  This week, Vice President Joe Biden emerged as chief spokesman for the Administration on the healthcare debate. Does this signal a change in the President’s efforts?  Does it suggest a new direction for Administration strategy?
  
• And Onto the House
  Much attention has been paid to what is happening in the Senate over healthcare … so where does the House stand in the debate?
  
• Want to Compare the Healthcare Plans?
  Juggling all the various healthcare plans around DC can be confusing. Check out the Kaiser Family Foundation’s great chart that explains all the differences.
  
• Quote of the Week
  In a new section of the report, I will include a memorable line from the past week in healthcare.
  

Washington Reports: September 21, 2009

• Dell to Acquire Perot Systems for $3.9 Billion, Creating Comprehensive, Customer-Focused IT-Solutions Company
• Senator Baucus Steps Out
  Senator Max Baucus (D-MT) released his much-anticipated healthcare bill…finally.  What was the reaction? How does it stack up against President Obama’s plan? Where are we headed?  What does it portend?
  
• This Week's Forecast on Capitol Hill: A Chance of Snowe in Early September
  With the Baucus bill released much attention is now being focused on moderate Republican Olympia Snowe (R-ME) to provide the last needed vote for passing the legislation. But will Snowe balk at supporting such a plan?
  
• So Dr. K, What’s Next?
  The healthcare bill has taken on many strange twists and turns. Let’s look ahead and see what’s next in the debate…
  
• So –What Derails Us?
  We are at a seminal point in the debate on healthcare and the next four months are crucial to the future of the United States…
  
• Update from the HIT Standards Committee
  An update from this week’s HIT Standards Committee in Washington…
  

Washington Reports: September 14, 2009

• And – The Response to the 090909 Obama Speech…
• The Spotlight Shifts to Baucus
• The Hill is Alive With the Sound of Music
• Blumenthal Book Review
• Questions from the Field
• Perot Systems Webinar to Provide Industry Perspective On Health Information Exchange

Washington Reports: September 07, 2009

• Is It Déjà Vu All Over Again with The 090909 Speech?
  Labor Day – September 7, 2009
  
• Will Obama Pull the Plug on Healthcare Reform’s Public Option?
• And, Across the Pond…
• Speaking of Releases – Clarification on “Meaningful Use” To Come Soon
• CCHIT Town Hall
• Massachusetts Health Care Reform: Three Years Later
• Follow On Questions and Updates

Washington Reports: August 30, 2009

• A Lion Sleeps Tonight
• GOP Healthcare Reform Principles Outlined
• The Aggressive Timeline to Meaningful Use
• What’s Black and White and Red All Over? Of Course, The Federal Deficit!!
• John Hummel’s White Paper
• The Heart of Power

Washington Reports: August 24, 2009

• A Growing Snowball Despite the Heat of August – What’s That All About?
• Efforts to Melt the Growing Snowball.
• The Co-Op Movement.
• In Politics Things Always Seem to Come Full Circle.
• Beyond Politics: New Support Announced for Regional Technology Initiatives and Health Information Exchange Networks.
• Interim Final Rule related to Breach Notifications.
• What the Polls are Saying.

Washington Reports: August 18, 2009

• The Health Reform Debate
• Recent News - New York Times Article
• Meaningful Use
• What the Polls are Saying
• The Calendar