NHC UPDATE
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Comparative Effectiveness Research -September 2009
The National Health Council’s consultant, Avalere Health, continues to produce updated analyses of health care reform legislation introduced this congressional session which includes comparative effectiveness research (CER). The NHC’s Health Care Reform Issue Team is using these materials to educate NHC members on several areas that will be part of any overall health care reform plan currently suggested.
As the health care reform legislation has progressed, the NHC has worked with consultants to develop “usefulness guidelines” which would govern when the results of CER could be used for coverage and reimbursement decisions. These guidelines were put into draft legislation that was submitted to the House and Senate.
During the August recess, NHC staff members conducted several meetings with congressional staff on CER. These included meetings with staff of the Senate Finance Committee members, House Energy and Commerce Committee members, and House Blue Dog Democrats. The NHC will continue to support a transparent and open CER governing process with strong patient and consumer representation.
The NHC built on these congressional meetings by submitting two letters with draft language to the Senate Finance Committee and the House Energy and Commerce Committee. These letters support the NHC CER values and encourage Congress to move forward with the patient-focused, long-term framework for use of CER funds. The letters also propose the incorporation of CER language into larger models of health care delivery system reform.
The NHC will continue to press for these changes as the House and Senate complete work on health care reform legislation and legislation advances to a conference committee.
Staff Contact: Kevin Cain, Assistant Vice President, Government Affairs and Programs
