NINA WEILER-HARWELL

H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.H.R. 4660/S. 2437, The Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection and Census programs within jurisdiction of subcommittee. H.R. 5016, The Financial Services and General Government Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs and implementation of ACA health insurance exchanges. H.R. 4800/S. 2389, Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding for nutrition and FDA drug processing. The Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect employment, health and human services and energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income assistance. (no bill) H.R. 4745/S. 2438, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for senior housing and transportation programs, and related community development aid. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 and FY 2016 budget. H.J.Res. 124 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for various programs serving seniors from disproportionate reduction under continuing resolution.

H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriation, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding for consumer protection, Census programs, ACA implementation/subsidy, USDA nutrition, FDA drug processing, employment, health and human services, home energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income Americans. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 and FY 2016 budget. H.J.Res. 124 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for various programs serving seniors from disproportionate reduction under continuing resolution. Discussed Medicare, Medicaid, Older Americans Act and other items regarding FY 2016 federal budget proposals.

H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.H.R. 4660/S. 2437, The Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection and Census programs within jurisdiction of subcommittee. H.R. 5016, The Financial Services and General Government Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs and implementation of ACA health insurance exchanges. H.R. 4800/S. 2389, Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding for nutrition and FDA drug processing. The Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect employment, health and human services and energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income assistance. (no bill) H.R. 4745/S. 2438, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for senior housing and transportation programs, and related community development aid. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 and FY 2016 budget. H.J.Res. 124 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for various programs serving seniors from disproportionate reduction under continuing resolution.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill) Multiemployer Pension Reform Act - Opposed provision granting authority to distressed multiemployer plans to cut accrued pension benefits. (no bill until H.R. 83)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. Sent letter of qualified support. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits. (no bill) Discussed women and financial security event materials. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed women's pension protection. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Sent letter opposing Thune amendment to the Highway bill which would cut benefits under SSDI and UI. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill) Multiemployer Pension Reform Act - Opposed provision granting authority to distressed multiemployer plans to cut accrued pension benefits. (no bill until H.R. 83)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. Sent letter of qualified support. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits. (no bill) Discussed women and financial security event materials. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed women's pension protection. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Sent letter opposing Thune amendment to the Highway bill which would cut benefits under SSDI and UI. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits. (no bill) Discussed women and financial security event materials. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Sent letter opposing Thune amendment to the Highway bill which would cut benefits under SSDI and UI. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed women's pension protection. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill) Multiemployer Pension Reform Act - Opposed provision granting authority to distressed multiemployer plans to cut accrued pension benefits. (no bill until H.R. 83)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. Sent letter of qualified support. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill) Multiemployer Pension Reform Act - Opposed provision granting authority to distressed multiemployer plans to cut accrued pension benefits. (no bill until H.R. 83)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. Sent letter of qualified support. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits. (no bill) Discussed women and financial security event materials. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed women's pension protection. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Sent letter opposing Thune amendment to the Highway bill which would cut benefits under SSDI and UI. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Sent letter opposing Thune amendment to the Highway bill which would cut benefits under SSDI and UI. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed women's pension protection. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill) Multiemployer Pension Reform Act - Opposed provision granting authority to distressed multiemployer plans to cut accrued pension benefits. (no bill until H.R. 83)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. Sent letter of qualified support. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's proposed new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) Discussed with Congress and the Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service their efforts regarding the March 2013 move away from paper checks to electronic benefit payments for all Social Security beneficiaries. (no bill) S. Con. Res.8, Sanders Amendment to Senate Budget Resolution - to prevent cuts to Social Security via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefts, among others. S. Con.Res.8, AARP expressed opposition to the Ayotte amendment (#165) to prohibit the Department of Labor from implementing a proposal to expand the definition of "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to include appraisals of employee stock ownership plans. S. Con.Res. 8, AARP expressed opposition to the Isakson amendment (#571) to prohibit the Department of Labor from updating ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. Conducted staff briefings on the importance of DOL and SEC efforts to update the definition of a fiduciary to better protect American investors and H.R. 2374. Letters sent to Hill on the importance of tax incentives for retirement and health plans. (no bill) Letter sent to the President to prioritize the nomination of a new commissioner for the Social Security Administration. (no bill) Submitted comments to the DOL in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the issue of lifetime income illustrations in periodic pension benefit statements of defined contributions pension plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Submitted comments to the Ways and Means Committee in response to their request for comments from the public on chained CPI and other benefit reductions to Social Security. Further delivered 2.4 million petitions in response to these requests. (no bill) Discussed S. 1270, the SAFE Retirement Act. Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Letter to Senate urging members not to sign a letter to OMB that would delay or prevent a DOL rulemaking on fiduciary duty. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied opposition to H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act, voted on by the House in October 2013. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Letter to OMB in opposition to a letter sent to the Agency by ten Senators urging that any DOL fiduciary duty rule be delayed until 60 days after completion of a related SEC proposal. Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits. (no bill) Discussed women and financial security event materials. (no bill)

H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial, employment and health care-related regulation.H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.R. 2787/S. 1329, The Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs within jurisdiction of subcommittee. H.R. 2786/S.1371, The Financial Services and General Government Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs and implementation of ACA health insurance exchanges. H.R. 2410/S. 1244 - Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect funding for nutrition and FDA drug processing. S. 1284, The Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect employment, health and human services and energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income assistance. H.R. 2610/S. 1243, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill, 2014 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for senior housing and transportation programs, and related community development aid. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Discussed H.J.Res. 59/H.R. 2775, Continuing Appropriations Resolutions, 2014. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 budget. H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and healthcare-related regulation. Discussed Presidents Budget. Discussed ACL FY 2015 budget.

H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial, employment and health care-related regulation.H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.R. 2787/S. 1329, The Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs within jurisdiction of subcommittee. H.R. 2786/S.1371, The Financial Services and General Government Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs and implementation of ACA health insurance exchanges. H.R. 2410/S. 1244 - Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect funding for nutrition and FDA drug processing. S. 1284, The Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect employment, health and human services and energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income assistance. H.R. 2610/S. 1243, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill, 2014 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for senior housing and transportation programs, and related community development aid. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Discussed H.J.Res. 59/H.R. 2775, Continuing Appropriations Resolutions, 2014. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 budget. H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and healthcare-related regulation. Discussed Presidents Budget. Discussed ACL FY 2015 budget.

H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial, employment and health care-related regulation.H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.R. 2787/S. 1329, The Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs within jurisdiction of subcommittee. H.R. 2786/S.1371, The Financial Services and General Government Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs and implementation of ACA health insurance exchanges. H.R. 2410/S. 1244 - Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect funding for nutrition and FDA drug processing. S. 1284, The Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect employment, health and human services and energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income assistance. H.R. 2610/S. 1243, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill, 2014 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for senior housing and transportation programs, and related community development aid. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Discussed H.J.Res. 59/H.R. 2775, Continuing Appropriations Resolutions, 2014. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 budget. H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and healthcare-related regulation. Discussed Presidents Budget. Discussed ACL FY 2015 budget.

H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.H.R. 2787/S. 1329, The Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs within jurisdiction of subcommittee. The Financial Services and General Government Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect consumer protection programs and implementation of ACA health insurance exchanges. (no bill) H.R. 4800/S. 2389, Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding for nutrition and FDA drug processing. (no bill) The Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect employment, health and human services and energy assistance programs for seniors, disabled and low income assistance. (no bill) H.R. 4745/S. 2438, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill, 2015 - Lobbied to protect funding levels for senior housing and transportation programs, and related community development aid. Discussed the impact of Deficit reduction proposals and sequestration on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and on vital health, social, housing and transportation programs. (no bill) Discussed S. 1351, the INFORM Act. Sent letter to Congress to urge that the House and Senate take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to President Obama to urge that he take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to Budget Conference Committee chairs urging they reject harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. Met with Administration officials regarding Social Security and the FY 2015 budget. Discussed Presidents Budget. Discussed ACL FY 2015 budget.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill) Multiemployer Pension Reform Act - Opposed provision granting authority to distressed multiemployer plans to cut accrued pension benefits. (no bill until H.R. 83)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. Sent letter of qualified support. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Discussed demographics and priorities for AARP members and the 50+ population in general. (no bill) Discussed with lawmakers & the Administration to keep Social Security separate from all budget negotiations/deficit reduction measures and opposed proposals for a "Chained CPI"Discussed the Department of Labor's intent to propose new fiduciary duty regulation with Congressional staff. Discussed possible proposals to improve pension rights for participants and reform proposals to improve pension coverage and adequacy. ( no bill) Briefed Congress on AARP's "You've Earned A Say"- A national conversation on the future of Social Security and Medicare with AARP members and all Americans. Lobbied against cuts to Social Security benefits via the adoption of chained CPI to calculate annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and Veterans benefits, among others. (no bill) S.500, the Keeping Our Social Security Promise Act - Discussed legislation to apply payroll taxes to employment and self-employment taxes to remuneration up to the contribution and benefit base and to remuneration in excess of $250,000. S. 308, the Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. S.567, the Strengthening Social Security Act - Discussed legislation to implement the CPI-E for annual Social Security COLA's and to eliminate the cap on maximum taxable wages under Social Security. Discussed current and future challenges of Social Security's Representative Payee program. (no bill) Discussed pending DOL regulations of summary documents for 401(k) fee disclosure. (no bill) ERISA fiduciary protections to safeguard the savings of worker investments in retirement accounts. H. R. 1601, the SSI Restoration Act - Signed on to Leadership Council of Aging Organization's (LCAO) endorsement letter on legislation to update aspects of the Supplemental Security Income Program. Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefit cuts in any package pertaining to the continuing resolution or the debt ceiling. Discussed retirement bills in draft with multiple staffers. (no bill) Discussed legislation to improve SSA administrative services. (no bill) Discussed proposals to protect multi-employer pensions. (no bill) Letter to Congress and White House staff on the need to update definition of "fiduciary" under ERISA. (no bill) Discussed spousal pension protections. (no bill)H.R. 2229, the Safeguarding Social Security Numbers Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation with Hill staff to establish a universal standard for the truncation of Social Security Numbers to prevent identity theft and fraud. H.R. 2171/S. 1145, the Lifetime Income Disclosure Act - Support for bipartisan legislation to express on annual 401(k) benefit statements the approximate annuity value of the lump sum value of the account. Discussed potential AARP comments to the Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration's Announcement of Proposed Rulemaking on lifetime income illustrations given to participants in defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans. (no bill) Discussed with officials from DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration the planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans. (no bill) H.R. 2374, the Retail Investor Protection Act - Expressed opposition to H.R. 2374 to delay the DOL's planned re-proposal of regulations to update the definition of a fiduciary for ERISA covered pension plans until 60 days after the potential release of similar regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission. H.R. 2154, the CPI for Seniors Act of 2013 - Discussed legislation to implement a Consumer Price Index for Seniors for calculating annual Social Security cost of living adjustments. Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefit cuts and protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs in any Deficit Reduction proposals and from enhanced redutions under sequestration. (no bill) H.R. 2374, Labor, HHS and Related Agencies Appropriations bill 2015 - Letter and lobbying in opposition to this bill that would delay or prevent a DOL proposed rulemaking on Fiduciary Duty. Conducted briefings in both House and Senate. Met with DOL officials to urge reissuance of a proposed rule to update fiduciary duty as it applies to ERISA. (no bill) Sent letter to Congress to urge the House and Senate to take steps to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Sent letter to White House to urging the President to take steps with Congress to avoid default on our national debt and avoid risking benefits for current Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries. (no bill) Lobbied to prevent the inclusion of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cuts for the purpose of achieving deficit reduction, a budget agreement, or as a tradeoff for scheduled sequestration cuts or other government spending. (no bill) Submitted testimony to Finance Committee for hearing on December 18th on Social Security. Discussed draft Social Security legislation with several Congressional staffers. (no bill) S. 1979, the USA Retirement Funds Act - Lobbied for additional protections to ensure older workers and retirees pension benefits are fully protected. S. 1970, the Retirement Security Act - Lobbied for additional protections for lower income and other workers to ensure that promised benefits are equitably provided. S. 2089, the SSI Restoration Act - AARP considered the need to update and index SSI benefits for inflation. S. 1270, Retirement Security Act - Sent letter of support. Met with Department of Treasury on pending retirement initiatives. Met with NEC staff on retirement issues. Met with DOL on retirement issues. Met with Administration staff to discuss issuance of proposed rules on Fiduciary duty. Multi-employer Pension Reform - Discussed concerns regarding reform proposals that cut retiree benefits; met with PBGC. (no bill) Letter to SEC demonstrating the harm from maintaining the suitability standard as opposed to imposing a fiduciary duty on broker/dealers to investors. (no bill) Discussed the need for fiduciary duty and user fees to fund the examination of registered investment advisors. (no bill) Letter to SEC in support of efforts to improve marketing and advertising of target date funds.Sent letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee in support of rebalancing funding to ensure timely payment of SSDI benefits. S. 2742, Social Security Access Act of 2014 - Sent a letter of support. H.R. 5260, Stop Disability Fraud Act of 2014 - Discussed SSDI legislation. Discussed women's pension protection. Discussed problems related to the "de-risking" of defined benefit pension plans. Submitted comments to the Department of Labor and related agencies on retirement topics including lifetime income and target date retirement funds.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicaid long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed measures for re-balancing in medicaid managed LTSS waivers and dual demonstration programs in sign on letter to CMS. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. H.R. 3531 - Discussed Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Medicaid managed care and long-term services and supports broadly. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) Discussed the AARP Initiative called "You've Earned a Say". (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed observation issues. (no bill) Discussed rebalancing measures in Medicaid managed LTSS in 1115 waivers and duals demonstration programs. (no bill) Discussed proposed regulation relating to Medicaid expansion coverage and minimum essential coverage. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed draft legislation regarding Dual Eligible Special Need Plans (D-SNP) - Strengthing Healthcare Options for Vulnerable Populations Act. (no bill) Discussed post-acute care reform. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Participated on press call on the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H. R. 933, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. Con. Res. 8, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. H.Con. Res. 25, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.Lobbied on expected "QM" safe harbor amendment. (The amendment was not offered) H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) H.R. 3547/H.J.R. 59/H.R. 2775/H.J.R. 106, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to prevent inclusion of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security benefit cuts and to protect vital health, social services, housing and transportation programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. S. 1284, Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S. 1871 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed you've earned a say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescriotion drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. (no bill) S. 1932/H.R. 3890 - Discussed logistics and attended event to introduce the Better Care, Lower Cost Act. Discussed non-residential settings and Medicaid home and community-based setting final regulation. (no bill) Discussed person-centered planning and family caregiver assessment in Medicaid HCBS state plan option final rule. Submitted comment letter on distaster preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid providers. (no bill) Discussed Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration and Balancing Incentive Payments Program. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Advantage. H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Medicare Act- Sent letters endorsing bill. H.R. 2810, The SGR Repeal and Medicare Beneficiary Improvement Act - Sent letters endorsing bill. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program.

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance.Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. H.R. 1173 - Discussed Personalize Your Care Act. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) Discussed the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 and provided feedback on the draft bill. (no bill number at the time, but later bill number was H.R. 4944/S. 2553) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Submitted comment letter on FYIS Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility payment rule. (no bill) Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed comments regarding Medicare and You handbook. (no bill) Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2014 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) Discussed nursing home staffing data in meeting with CMS. (no bill) Discussed advanced care planning, Welcome to Medicare visit, and Medicare wellness visits. Discussed language access in managed long-term services and supports in meeting with the HHS Office for Civil Rights. S. 2240, Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. S. 1439, Discussed support for Care Planning Act. Discussed LTSS Scorecard and reserving a room/logistics for Hill briefing on the LTSS Scorecard. (no bill). Discussed managed LTSS and language access. (no bill) H.R. 3024, Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 9673, Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569, Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act - Submitted written statement for the record for the current hospital ---in the Medicare program hearings. Shared draft witness questions with some subcommittee members and committee staff. Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Invited Hill staff to attend the LTSS Scorecard briefing. (no bill) Participated in a roundtable discussion on long-term services and supports. (no bill) Discussed Welcome to Medicare Visit and advance care planning. (no bill) Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed New York State Community first choice option and workforce issues. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill) Discussed LTSS issues, including financing. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) Discussed long-term services and supports in Hill briefings. (no bill) H.R. 1173 - Discussed advance care planning, CMS payment for advance care planning, advanced illness, and Personalize Your Care Act.H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data and executive actions related to nursing homes, IMPACT Act, PL 113-185).. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). PL. 113-295 - Responded to inquiry about Medicare offsets on Achieving a Better Life Expense Act.Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid managed care regulations. (CMS, no bill) PL.111-148 - Discussed long-term services and supports broadly and Older Americans Act. Submitted comments on Medicare Physician fee schedule final rule and advance care planning (CMS - 1612-FC). Discussed Medicare enrollment and notification of eligibility. (no bill) Discussed Medicare in-office ancillary services exception. (no bill)

Pub.Law 111-148 & 111-152 - Discussed implementation of health care law that would reform the health care system to provide affordable quality health care, reduce drug costs and expand access to long-term services and supports. Discussed how to implement Medicaid provisions of Affordable Care Act. (PL. 111-148)S. 374, Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Lobbied in support of this legislation to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on Medicare coverage for in-patient psychiatric hospital services (112th). Discussed improving access to care for underserved population. (no bill) Discussed importance of maintaining low income subsididies and supports in Medicare. (no bill) Discussed the importance of coordinating services for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive all needed benefits but there is no duplication. (no bill) Discussed whether, and under what circumstances, managed care could effectively be used to provide benefits to dual eligible beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed additional methods for fighting fraud and waste in Health Care. (no bill) Discussed Medigap and need for guaranteed issue for all populations and need to increase medical loss ratio. Discussed durable medical equipment bidding. (no bill) Lobbied for legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with additional opportunities to enroll in Medicare Part B.(no bill) Lobbied against the use of the Social Security account number on Government-issued identification cards issued in connection with Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP benefits and for other purposes. (no bill) Discussed support to curb waste and fraud from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. (no bill) H.R. 3630, Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Discussed the legislation as it pertained to SGR. Discussed Medicare Reform. (no bill) H.R. 2305/S. 1123, PRIME ACT (Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare Expenditures) - Discussed support for bill and urged cosponsorship. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S. 740, Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income befeficiaries. (no bill) Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) H.R. 1717 - Discussed Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act. Discussed implementation of regulations regarding minimum wage and overtime for home care workers and consumer-directed care. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H. R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R.3830/S.1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) extension and CHIP Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice - Final 2014 CMS Guidance. H.R.5294, Health Equity & Accountability Act of 2014 - Addresses health care disparities; no endorsement due to budget impact. Medicare Advantage- Answered questions from some Hill offices. (no bill) Medicare Supplemental Insurance - Stated opposition to the elimination of first dollar coverage. (no bill)Discussed Medicare Graduate Nursing Education pilot design. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Affordability. (no bill) Discussed Prescription Drug Shortages. (no bill) H.R. 3342, Affordable Medicines Utilization Act of 2011 - Lobbied to encourage state Medicaid programs to use safe, effective generic medications. H.R. 2576 - Discussion to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs. Discussed opposition to caps on dual eligibles; discussed managed care and dual eligibles. (no bill) Discussed with CMS demonstration programs for dual eligibles and process related to the demonstrations, as well as other work of the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office, discussed consumer choice and continuity of care in Medicaid managed long-term services and supports programs, discussed focus groups on dual eligibles. Discussed Hospital & Critical Access Hospitals Conditions of Participation proposed regulations; requested that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians assistants be allowed the full scope of services in hospital admitting and visiting privileges. (no bill) Discussed Hospital Outpatient Therapeutic Services Final Rule underscoring that advanced practice registered nurses and physicians should be allowed to supervise such outpatient service clinics without physician oversight as long as in line with state scope of practice laws. (no bill) Discussed health disparities. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid reform, Medicare/Medicaid "dual eligibles" integration efforts and financial alignment demonstrations; and other CMS demonstration initiatives. (no bill) S. 3586, Recruiting Individuals to Drive Elders (RIDE) Act - Discussed Medicaid non-emergency transportation bill (112th). Discussed proposals that would establish per-capita caps under Medicaid as well as other Medicaid financing proposals including block grants and changes to the current FMAP structure. (no bill) Discussed extension of funding originally provided under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (P.L. 110-275) to State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRICs), and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for Medicare outreach and enrollment counseling. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of cuts to beneficiaries in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the prevention of an increase in the age of eligibility in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed the patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare program. (no bill) Discussed concerns of block granting Medicaid. (no bill) Discussed the Kansas managed long-term services and supports waiver proposals and related implementation issues. (no bill). H.R.928/S.408, the Medicare Drug Savings Act - Discussed requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed Health Disparities. (no bill) Discussed medicare demonstration project replacing standard medicare cards with Smart Card technology. (no bill) H.R. 574 - The Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act of 2013. Discussed Medicaid expansion and estate recovery. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid and asset transfers. (no bill) H.R.4994/S. 2553, Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 - Discussed the bill and AARP support for the bill. Shared our letter of support. S. 2491, Discussed Medicare Protection Act. Discussed concern about CMS guidance on prescription drugs for medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice and coordination between hospice providers and medicare Part D sponsors. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S.569 - Submitted statement for the record for Senate Aging Committee hearing on Observation Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act (H.R. 5232). Discussed aging in place, HCBS, family caregiving. (no bill)H.R. 1179/S.569, Improving Access to Medicare Act - Discussed support of Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act and urged cosponsorship and advancement of the bill. Discussed CMS information regarding healthcare marketplaces. H.R. 2305/S.1123, Preventing and Reducing Improper Medicare and Medicaid Expenditures Act. Bill reduces waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Discussed Competitive bidding of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. (no bill) Discussed repeal of Affordable Care Act provision making prescriptions necessary for over-the-counter drugs purchased with flexible spending accounts. (no bill) Discussed Medicare supplemental coverage. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug cost. (no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed Recruiting Individuals to Drive Our Elders Act (RIDE) would increase state flexibility by giving states the option to receive federal assistance to reimburse their volunteer drivers for no-load miles. (no bill) Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2015 - Lobbied to protect vital health and social services programs from enhanced reductions from the prior year baseline, and to prevent repeal of certain financial and health care-related regulation.(no bill) Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiares. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or 'fast track' authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) Discussed fraud, Medicare home healthcare, ways to find savings in Medicare without harming Medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). Discussed You've Earned A Say, ways to find savings in medicare without harming medicare beneficiaries (care coordination, prescription drugs, waste, fraud and abuse). PL.111-148 - Discussed implementation of provision to require reporting of nursing home staffing data based on payroll data. Discussed the draft legislation on Medicare fraud and abuse. Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740 - Discussed the Medicare Drug Savings Act to require drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3830/S. 1900 - Discussed pending U.S. trade agreement negotiations and trade promotional or "fast track" authority legislation and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. S. 2461 - Discussed Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Extension Act of 2014. Discussed Part D Payment for Drugs for Beneficiaries Enrolled in Hospice-Final 2014 CMS Guidance. Discussed the Protecting Integrity of Medicare Act. (no bill) H.R.5435, Home Infusion Site of Care Act - Sent letter of endorsement H.R. 5958 - Discussed the ACO Improvement Act. H.R. 5232 - Discussed and sent letter on the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility Act. Met with Centers for Medicare and medicaid services to discuss three-day stay requirement for medicare skilled nursing coverage. H.J. Res. 124, Continuing Appropriations Resolution - Lobbied to protect funding levels for CMS program management under Continuing Resolution. Discussed coordination with hospice providers and Medicare Part D plans guidance for Medicare beneficiaries receiving hospice. (no bill) H.R. 1179/S. 569 - Discussed observation impace on Medicare beneficiaries, counting time in observation toward Medicare's three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage, and the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act (CMS & MedPAC). Discussed caucus for military/veteran family caregivers and support for family caregivers. (no bill) Discussed draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket. (no bill)Discussed District of Columbia EPD Medicaid HCBS waiver. (no bill) H.R. 5232 - Discussed legislation and shared letter of support for the Notice of Observation Treatment and Implication for Care Eligibility (NOTICE) Act of 2014. Discussed Medicare Advantage. (no bill) Discussed H.R. 3616, Protecting Seniors from Healthcare Fraud Act. Discussed observation care and "two-midnight rule". (no bill) H.R. 1070, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act - Discussed and sent letter of endorsement to bill. Discussed the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit program and changes needed to further lower prescription drug costs and related agency proposed rule changes. (no bill) H.R. 1588/S.740, Medicaid Drug Savings Act - Discussed the requirement for drug manufacturers to provide rebates for drugs provided to Medicare Part D low-income subsidy beneficiaries, including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Discussed potential improvements to the Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries. (no bill) Discussed pending U.S. Trade agreement negotiations, including trade promotional or "fast track" authority, and their potential impact on Medicare and Medicaid prescription drug programs. (no bill) H.R. 2810/S.1871/H.R. 4015/S.2110 - Discussed SGR repeal and health care extender provisions, including the Qualified Individual low-income Medicare beneficiary assistance program. H.R. 4418, The Expanding Availability of Medicare Data Act - Sent letter of endorsement. Discussed Medicare data and billing transparency. (no bill) Discussed socio-economic risk adjustment. (no bill) S. 2240 - Discussed Medicare Choices Empowerment and Protection Act. H.R. 3024 - Discussed the Medicare Common Access Card Act. H.R. 4673-Discussed the Bundling and Coordinating Post Acute Care (BACPAC) Act and shared views on post-acute care return. Discussed Medicare expansion. (no bill) Discussed Medicaid Labs Spousal Impoverishment provisions (PL. 111-198). S. 2361, Discussed Stop Schemes and cons against Medicare and seniors. Discussed transparency in healthcare. (no bill) Discussed LTSS Hill briefing series. (no bill) Met with CMS on observation status. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY2015 Medicare Hospice proposed regulation. Shared comment letter with some Hill staff. H.R. 4994/S.2553 - Shared letter of support for Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act and discussed the status of the bill. Discussed long-term survey and supports Hill briefings. (no bill) Submitted comment letter to CMS on the FY 2015 Medicare Home Health proposed regulation. Shared draft working paper on impact of observation on Medicare beneficiary out of pocket cost. (no bill) Responded to inquiry on observation. (no bill)