The 2009 Stimulus Bill allocated $1.1 billion for HHS and other federal departments to carry out comparative effectiveness research, which involves analyzing strengths and weakness of various medical interventions in an attempt to improve performance.
But critics of the measure, including many Republicans, are concerned that the money would be used to ration health care. “Under ObamaCare, an entire institute is created that is dedicated to CER,” the release said. “Medicare and Medicaid can use that institute’s research in determining which treatments they will cover.”
According to HHS, a new 15-member federal coordinating council will be considering what areas of healthcare such research is needed but will not recommend clinical guidelines for payment, coverage or treatment. HHS is currently seeking input on approaches to developing an inventory of ongoing and existing comparative effectiveness research.
Scott P. Serota, president and CEO of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, has proposed a similar institute for the private sector.
Read the release by Sen. Crapo on comparative effectiveness.
Read more coverage of comparative effectiveness research.
–GOP Will Target Independent Payment Advisory Board, Comparative Effectiveness Research
–What Leaders of Certain Healthcare Trade Groups Delivered for Members
–HHS Planned Claims Database Would Include Private Payor Data
