Understanding the Key Players Shaping US Healthcare Policy and Regulation
Healthcare system:
The relationship between providers, payers, and patients receiving care comprise the Healthcare system. Healthcare systems vary from country to country. The significant impact on the health and well-being of a country’s population is based on the structure and effectiveness of the healthcare system. The United States healthcare system is complex with constant evolution.
Regulators and Policymakers:
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is in charge of preserving American’s health and providing basic human services. US Public Health Service agencies and human services agencies and offices function under HHS. These agencies constantly conduct life-saving research to determine the nation’s health security. Below is the briefing of these agencies and offices that work under HHS.
1. Administration for Children and Families (ACF):
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) was created on April 15, 1991, to promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. It aims to empower families, individuals, and tribal communities. It encourages strong and healthy communities. The Vulnerable populations, Refugees, and Migrants requirements are addressed by ACF.
2. Administration for Community Living (ACL):
Administration for Community Living (ACL) was created on April 18, 2012, to promote access to community support, the needs of older adults and people with disabilities. It aims to Promote and support their contributions, professional growth, and work-life balance that enable older adults and people with disabilities to live in their communities.
3. Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR):
Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) was moved under HHS in 2022 to support the preparedness, response and recovery from disasters and public health emergencies. To achieve greater operational capabilities ASPR collaborates with hospitals, healthcare coalitions, biotech firms, community members, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, and other partners across the country. It aims to improve partnerships with healthcare and public health stakeholders to ensure innovative workplace practices.
4. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ):
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) supports the research to improve the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care for all Americans. AHRQ mainly focuses on specialty care for the needs of rural and underserved communities, reduction in hospital readmissions and emergency room visits with better discharge plans, and improved patient outcomes. It aims to Reduce antibiotic overuse to eliminate health care-associated infections, betterment of multiple chronic conditions patients, to facilitate clinical decision making EHRs are updated with the latest research findings.
5. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR):
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry based in Atlanta, Georgia protects and prevents people from the health impacts of hazardous substances from waste sites, unplanned releases, and other sources of environmental pollution by investigating emerging environmental health threats. It aims to identify potential health risks from exposures review environmental and health data, prevent exposures, and educate affected communities and local health professionals about site contamination and potential health effects at sites.
6. Assistant Secretary for Administration (ASA):
The Assistant Secretary for Administration provides leadership for HHS departmental administration, including human resource policy, information technology, and departmental operations.
7. Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR):
All the aspects of the budget, financial management, grants, and acquisition management, and the direction to implement the activities across the Departments are guided by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR) to the Secretary.
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia cares for confronting global disease threats, promoting healthy and safe behaviors, Tackling the biggest health problems, and putting science and advanced technology into action to prevent disease.
9. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
The Food and Drug Administration, which is part of the Public Health Service, assures that food is safe and pure. It also ensures the safety and effectiveness of human and animal drugs, biological products, medical equipment, and radiation-emitting electronic items. Furthermore, the FDA is in charge of overseeing the regulatory approval of pharmaceuticals, biologics, diagnostics, and devices in the United States.
10. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA):
The Health Resources and Services Administration, part of the Public Health Service, provides health care to people who are geographically isolated, economically or medically vulnerable like people with HIV, pregnant mothers, people with low income who cannot access high-quality health care, and residents of rural areas. It supports health infrastructure and telehealth. Healthcare providers can get financial support from HRSA. It aims at health equity and improves public health, and health infrastructure that can support current and emerging needs.
Conclusion:
AnnexMed is a healthcare technology and services company that specializes in Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) solutions for healthcare providers. Compliance with regulators and policymakers in the U.S. healthcare system is crucial for any RCM company, as healthcare regulations and policies are complex and subject to frequent changes and it’s essential for RCM companies like AnnexMed to stay updated with the latest developments and adapt their practices accordingly. Additionally, we recommend checking AnnexMed’s website or contacting them directly for the most current information on their compliance efforts and services.