Senate Approves Critical Healthcare Spending Bill 2024

Congressional Approval Process

The Senate achieved a decisive victory with an 85-11 vote approval of the spending bill in the early morning of December 21, following the House’s earlier approval with a 366-34 vote. This crucial legislation now awaits President Biden’s final signature to become law.

Healthcare Program Extensions

The comprehensive spending package reinforces essential healthcare initiatives by extending funding for diabetes programs, telehealth services, and community health centers. Additionally, the bill maintains support for critical family health and educational programs, ensuring continuous access to vital healthcare services.

Hospital Payment Provisions

Significant financial support continues for low-volume hospitals and Medicare-dependent facilities, alongside extended add-on payments for telehealth flexibilities and ambulance services. The legislation notably preserves Medicare Part D coverage for specific oral antiviral drugs and maintains temporary waivers for acute hospital-care-at-home programs.

Support for Vulnerable Populations

A major victory for healthcare accessibility comes with the elimination of scheduled payment cuts for disproportionate share hospitals, which primarily serve uninsured and Medicaid patients. The bill also secures extended funding for family-to-family health information centers and specialized educational programs focused on public health awareness.

Legislative Background

Earlier attempts at passing a reduced government funding bill faced opposition, particularly regarding healthcare provisions. The previous version excluded several key elements, including long-term Medicare telehealth extensions and hospital-at-home programs, along with measures addressing physician pay cuts and pharmacy benefit manager regulations.

Contingency Planning

HHS developed a comprehensive contingency strategy in preparation for a potential government shutdown. Under such circumstances, the department would have operated with approximately half its workforce, with 45% of staff facing furlough by the second day, significantly impacting various CMS functions and community health initiatives.