Federal Advocacy Library

ANA Sends Letter Opposing H.R. 7513 to Protect Nurses in Long-Term Care Facilities

ANA sent a letter to Congressional leadership opposing the Protecting America's Seniors' Access to Care Act (H.R. 7513) which would prohibit the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) from issuing a rule on safe staffing standards in long-term care facilities.

ANA Sends a Letter to Congressional Leaders Outlining our 2024 Priorities 

ANA submitted a letter to Congress that highlights several of the organization’s congressional priorities for 2024. The priorities include expanding and retaining the nursing workforce, addressing regulatory barriers to patients’ access to timely, quality care, and improving maternal health equity.

ANA Statement for the Record to the House VA Committee on Rural Access for Veterans

ANA attended the House VA Committee hearing on January 11 titled, “Rural Access: Is VA Meeting All Veterans Where They Live?”. We also submitted an official statement for the record to the Committee.

ANA Replies to Ways & Means Committee Chairman's RFI on Improving Rural Health 

ANA submitted a letter documenting the increasingly dire challenges that the nation’s rural population, workforce, and health care infrastructure are facing, and potential solutions. 

ANA Sends Letter to Senate HELP Leaders on Draft Legislation to Improve the Health Care Workforce

ANA sent a letter to Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) supporting their bipartisan legislation to improve the health care workforce along with suggestions on how to make it stronger. 

ANA Submits Statement for the Record to House VA Committee Supporting National Practice Standards and Full Practice Authority for CRNAs 

ANA weighed in on giving CRNAs full practice authority within the VA

AARP Shows their Support for the Improving Care and Access to Nurses (ICAN) Act

AARP advocates for more than 100 million Americans aged 50 over older. They support the ICAN Act as it addresses barriers to care in the Medicare and Medicaid programs for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses to provide care.

ANA  Responds to the Request for Information Regarding the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act

The Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act (PAHPA) is set to be reauthorized later this year. PAHPA is critical to safeguard public health and support improvements in the nation’s preparedness and response capabilities for public health and medical emergencies. ANA submitted comments to the Senate HELP Committee.

ANA  Responds to the Request for Information Regarding the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act

The Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act (PAHPA) is set to be reauthorized later this year. PAHPA is critical to safeguard public health and support improvements in the nation’s preparedness and response capabilities for public health and medical emergencies. ANA submitted comments to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

ANA  Statement for the Record to the Senate HELP Committee on Health Care Workforce Shortages

ANA attended the Senate HELP Committee hearing on February 16 titled, “Examining Health Care Workforce Shortages: Where Do We Go From Here?”. We also submitted an official statement for the record to the Committee.

ANA Sends a Letter to Congressional Leaders Outlining our Priorities for the 118th Congress

ANA leaders recently sent a letter to Congressional leaders about our top priorities for the 118^th Congress. While we will be tackling a myriad of issues, we highlighted the three following topics: ensuring safe workplaces, improving patient access to care, and strengthening the nursing workforce.

ANA Letter to OSHA on Workplace Violence Prevention

On April 1, ANA together with 59 affiliate and partner nursing organizations submitted a sign-on letter to the Occupational Safety and Health Organization (OSHA) urging the quick release of their Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Assistance Standard.

ANA Details 2024 Policy Priorities

Earlier this year, ANA detailed their policy and regulatory priorities for 2024 which include promoting a robust nursing workforce and health equity as well as removing practice barriers for APRNs and shaping payment strategies.

ANA Comments on Equity of Emergency Care Proposed Quality Measure

On February 16, ANA submitted comments on a proposed Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) quality measure to address inequitable access to timely quality care in emergency departments. ANA’s comments supported the measure goals and the importance of equitable access for all vulnerable populations. The comments responded to posed questions regarding alternative outcomes, score calculation and more. ANA urged the measure to holistically and realistically address the boarding and understaffing problems that contribute to inequitable emergency department care.

ANA Comments on the CMS Notice of Benefits and Payment Parameters 2025 Draft Rule

On January 5, ANA submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on the Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2025 draft rule. ANA’s comments focused on three main issues. The first thanked CMS for their focus on health equity, the second in ensuring that advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are included in network adequacy standards, and the third is on federal telehealth policy and ensuring that advances in telehealth are maintained even though the pandemic is over.

ANA Comments on NINR RFI on Nursing Research in Climate and Health

ANA submitted comments to a Request for Information (RFI) issued by the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) on nursing research in climate and health. ANA used the opportunity to comment to highlight the association's recently updated position statement on climate change. The comments centered on conveying that ANA holds that climate change is a critical public health issue that requires urgent action to mitigate its impact on human health and well-being.

ANA, State Associations, and Organizational Affiliates Comment on CMS Long-Term Care (LTC) Facility Minimum Staffing Rule.

ANA, along with 25 state members and organizational affiliates, submitted comments November 3 to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on a proposed rule that will implement minimum staffing standards in LTC facilities. In the letter, the groups expressed support for the rule while offering refinements to the proposal. The comments encouraged CMS to finalize its proposal to have a RN onsite 24/7, include LPNs in the staffing standards, work closely with facilities to ensure compliance with the standards, and work closely with the nursing community to address persistent staffing challenges and needs.

ANA Comments on CMS Long-Term Care (LTC) Facility Minimum Staffing Rule.

ANA submitted comments November 3 to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on a proposed rule that will implement minimum staffing standards in LTC facilities. In the letter, ANA expressed support for the rule while offering refinements to the proposal. ANA was especially pleased to see CMS propose to require an RN onsite 24/7, a provision the association has long advocated for. In addition, comments encouraged CMS to include LPNs in the staffing standards, work closely with facilities to ensure compliance with the standards, and work closely with nurses to address persistent staffing challenges and needs.

ANA Comments on 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule.

On September 6, ANA submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the 2024 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule. The comments thank CMS for changes to expand access to APRNs and telehealth. ANA urges CMS to recognize and value the critical role of RNs in successful quality measure outcomes and advancing health equity throughout the Medicare program.

ANA Comments to the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) on Changes to Infection Control Guidance.

On August 23, ANA submitted comments to the HICPAC which advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on infection control guidance. The comment letter urges HICPAC and CDC to establish clear and specific protection mandates to ensure the safety of nurses and all healthcare professionals.

ANA Comments on Proposed Rule on Short-Term, Limited Duration Insurance Plans

ANA submitted August 22 comments to the Department of Health and Human Services expressing support for a proposed rule that would revert 2018 rulemaking that expanded the sale and use of short-term, limited duration insurance plans. This rule would better delineate those plans from comprehensive coverage plans that are subject to the protections outlined in the Affordable Care Act.

ANA Comments on CY2024 Proposed Payment Rule for Medicare Home Health Care

On August 22, ANA submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the proposed FY24 prospective payment rule for Medicare Home Health Care. In the letter, ANA urges CMS to evaluate access to RN care in the home and supports proposed modifications to quality reporting. Comments also recommend CMS’ continued engagement with nurses on strategies to promote equity in home health care.

ANA Comments on FY24 End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule.

On August 22, ANA submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the proposed FY24 ESRD Prospective Payment System. The comments urge CMS to invest in and support the essential role of nephrology nurses in the ESRD program and to finalize proposed health equity measures in the ESRD Quality Incentive Program.

ANA Comments to CMS on CA’s Medicaid Waiver Application to Improve Reproductive Health Care Access

On July 11, ANA submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) supporting a federal waiver to expand access to reproductive health care in California’s Medicaid  program. The letter urged CMS to work with the state on a final plan that also promotes nurse participation in the waiver program.

ANA Comments in Response to Medicaid's Managed Care Access Rule

ANA submitted June 27 comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services proposed rule on Medicaid access in the managed care delivery system. In its comments, ANA urged CMS to ensure that plans that preserve access to services provided by advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are included in beneficiary provider networks and that payment rate transparency efforts encourage direct payment and parity for APRN services. ANA also urged the agency to include APRNs in any conversation and effort to address health equity.

ANA Comments in Response to Medicaid's Proposed Fee for Service (FFS) Access Rule

ANA submitted June 27 comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services proposed rule on Medicaid access in the FFS delivery system. In its comments, ANA urged CMS to ensure that access to services provided by advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are included in beneficiary provider networks and that payment rate transparency efforts encourage direct payment and parity for APRN services. ANA also urged the agency to include APRNs in any advisory groups tasked with analyzing payments, as well as any conversations and efforts to address health equity.

ANA Letter to CMS in Response to Medicare's Proposed 2024 Payment Rules for Skilled Nursing Facilities

ANA submitted June 2 comments on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requested comments on its proposed 2024 Medicare payment rule for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs). In response, ANA’s comment letter 1) Provides feedback on the agency’s SNF staffing action; 2) Urges adoption of the Long-Stay Hospitalization measure for the Value-Based Payment Program; and 3) Encourages CMS to work closely with nurses on reporting measures and subsequent work to address health equity.

ANA Comments on FY24 Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule

ANA submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on the Medicare Program's FY 2024 Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Prospective Payment System. The comments support continued encouragement of COVID-19 vaccination for health care personnel and inclusion of new health equity measures to improve care for all in the program.

ANA Comments on Occupational Safety and Health Administration Small Business Advocacy Review of Proposed Workplace Violence Prevention Standard

ANA submitted comments to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding the Small Business Advocacy Review of a proposed workplace violence prevention standard for health care and social assistance. The comments urged OSHA to continue the rulemaking process and release a full proposed regulation and explained why this standard is important for nurses.

ANA Comments on the Federal Trade Commission Proposed Rule to Ban Non-Compete Clauses

ANA submitted comments to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in support of their proposed rule banning non-compete clauses with limited exceptions where at least one party has ownership interests. ANA’s comments focused on the facts that non-compete clauses are detrimental for nurses, how most nurses do not have access to information that non-compete clauses were originally intended to protect, and how non-compete clauses worsen the nurse shortage.

ANA Comments on Safeguarding the Rights of Conscience as Protected by Federal Statutes Proposed Rule

ANA submitted comments on the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) proposed rule, Safeguarding the Rights of Conscience as Protected by Federal Statutes. ANA's comments explained the guiding principles of the Code of Ethics for Nurses and addressed the need for further processes from HHS to ensure patient care is never delayed by a conscience objection.

ANA Comments on English Language Proficiency for Foreign Educated Nurses

ANA submitted comments to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) in continued support of testing and minimum score requirements in English language proficiency for foreign educated nurses.

ANA Comments on Revisions to Part 2 Confidentiality Requirements, Jan. 27, 2023

ANA submitted comments on proposed updates to Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Patient Records under 42 CFR part 2 (“Part 2”), which mainly proposed to better align Part 2 with existing Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy, Breach Notification, and Enforcement Rules. ANA expressed support for the proposed changes but encouraged the agency to provide more information and education to providers around stigma, privacy, and legal concerns faced by SUD patients.

ANA Comments on Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2024, Jan. 27, 2023

ANA submitted comments on the proposed Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for qualified health plans (QHPs) offered on the federal and state-based marketplaces for the 2024 plan year. ANA’s comments focused on urging the agency to ensure APRNs are adequately and appropriately considered in QHP provider networks, especially to increase access to medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorders. ANA also urged the agency to work closely with nurses to address health equity barriers and challenges within the marketplaces.

ANA Comments on Creating a National Healthcare System Action Alliance To Advance Patient Safety Request for Information

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking feedback on advancing patient and healthcare workforce safety through the development of a National Healthcare System Action Alliance to Advance Patient Safety. ANA submitted comments that urged the agency to address long-standing nurse and health care workforce safety issues, including workplace violence and inadequate staffing.

ANA Comments on Make Your Voice Heard: Promoting Efficiency and Equity Within CMS Programs Request for Information

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a request for information (RFI) seeking feedback on health care access, health equity, understanding provider experiences, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. ANA submitted comments that urged the agency to make permanent the COVID-19 waivers, look to nurses as they seek approaches for addressing health equity, and remove regulatory barriers to practice.

ANA Comments on Nondiscrimination Proposed rule

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a proposed rule reinstating and reinforcing nondiscrimination in health care programs, as protected under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. This rule, if finalized, reverses previous rulemaking which limited certain nondiscrimination protections. In its comments, ANA expressed support for the proposed provisions and urged the agency to finalize the rule.

ANA Comments on the CY 2023 Physician Fee Schedule

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the CY 2023 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule. ANA provided comments detailing how CMS should finalize proposals that support and pay for services provided through telehealth technologies and behavioral health, substance use disorder, and opioid use disorder treatment. The association also urged the agency to refine and develop quality measures that accurately capture nursing services, as well as, support provider participation and health equity in the Medicare Shared Savings Program. Other comments focused on incentivizing nurse pay in clinical labor pricing proposals, accepting CPT recommendations, and other issues of importance for nurses.

ANA Comments on Proposed Changes to Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendements (CLIA)

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a proposed rule updating the CLIA fees and associated regulations. As the agency works to finalize the rule, ANA urged CMS to codify existing testing personnel qualifications and not categorize advanced practice registered nurses as midlevel practitioners.

ANA Letter to CMS in Response to Conditions of Participation Proposed Rule

In a Federal Register Notice published on July 6, 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requested comments on the proposed rule creating Rural Emergency Hospitals. In response, ANA's comment letter looks at 1) ensuring proper nurse staffing 2) services offered at rural emergency hospitals 3) ensuring full practice authority for APRNs and 4) discharge services.

ANA Letter to CMS in Response to Medicare’s Proposed 2023 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems Proposed Rule

In a Federal Register Notice published on May 10, 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requested comments on its proposed 2023 Medicare payment rule for Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems. In response, ANA’s comment letter looks at 1) future inclusion of health equity performance in the hospital readmission reduction program 2) current assessment on climate change impacts on outcomes, care, and health equity 3) principles for measuring healthcare quality disparities across CMS quality programs 4) establishing a publicly reported designation to capture the quality and safety of maternity care and 5) payment adjustments for domestically made NIOSH approved n95 surgical respirators.

ANA Letter to CMS in Response to Medicare’s Proposed 2023 Payment Rule for Skilled Nursing Facilities, dated May 27, 2022

In a Federal Register notice published on April 15, 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requested comments on its proposed 2023 Medicare payment rule for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs). In response, ANA’s comment letter 1) Supports required reporting of flu vaccination rates of SNF personnel; 2) Recommends a blended approach to improving equity in SNF care; 3) Urges expansion of value-based payment for SNF care; and 4) Encourages CMS to incorporate ANA’s core staffing principles in CMS’ development of minimum staffing levels for nursing facilities.

ANA Comments on the FY 2023 Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule, dated May 26, 2022

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released the FY 2023 Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities (IPFs) Prospective Payment System and Quality Reporting Updates proposed rule. As the agency considers what provisions to finalize, ANA provided comments detailing how CMS should work closely with nurses to address health care equity in IPFs and the larger health care delivery system.

ANA Comments on the FY 2023 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule, dated May 26, 2022

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) Prospective Payment System for Federal Fiscal Year 2023 and Updates to the IRF Quality Reporting Program proposed rule. As the agency considers what provisions to finalize, ANA provided comments detailing how CMS should work closely with nurses to address health care equity in IRFs and the larger health care delivery system.

ANA Comments on the Proposed 2022 CDC Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids, dated March 10, 2022

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released the draft 2022 CDC Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids. As the agency finalizes the draft guideline, ANA urged the CDC to include all providers involved in pain care management, especially nurses, in provider definitions and to promote data and practices to address and overcome barriers in pain management care.

ANA Advises NIOSH on Interventions to Support Nurses’ Mental Health and Well-Being

In a Federal Register notice published on September 27, 2021, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) invited public input on workplace interventions to prevent work-associated stress and foster positive mental health and well-being among health care personnel. In comments, ANA provided highlights of relevant ANA Enterprise (ANAE) research on nurses’ well-being, and summarized the mental health resources that ANAE has developed for the nursing community.

ANA responds to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)’s draft Strategic Plan FY 2022-2026

On November 5, 2021, the American Nurses Association issued a response to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)'s draft Strategic Plan FY 2022-2026. ANA broadly supports the overall goals laid out in the plan and applauds its commitment to “address long-standing barriers to strengthening the health workforce.”

ANA Comments on the CY 2022 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule, dates September 9, 2021

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the CY 2022 Outpatient Prospective Payment System and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System Proposed Rule in July. As the agency considers what provisions to finalize, ANA provided comments urging the agency not to finalize reporting requirements pertaining to vaccinations among health care personnel, detailed how CMS should work closely with nurses to address health care equity, continue to preserve telehealth flexibilities, and reflect the value of nursing services in a new payment system for rural emergency hospitals.

ANA Comments on Proposed CY2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Rule

In a Federal Register notice published on July 23, 2021, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requested comments on proposed rule CY 2022 Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment Policies; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; Provider Enrollment Regulation Updates; Provider and Supplier Prepayment and Post-Payment Medical Review Requirements

In comments, ANA urges CMS to expand telehealth coverage with specific policies following the Public Health Emergency, and comments on several additional provisions in the proposed rule.

ANA Comments on OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard on Occupational Exposure to COVID-19

In a Federal Register notice published on June 21, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration released an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on Occupational Exposure to COVID-19 as an Interim Final Rule with comment period. ANA’s comment letter supports the ETS overall, but urges revisions to the ETS to ensure safety for all healthcare personnel providing care during the coronavirus pandemic. In addition, our comments urge OSHA to support strong oversight and enforcement, and to promulgate a permanent standard to protect healthcare personnel from infectious disease.

ANA Letter to ONDCP in Response to Call for Comment on 2022 Strategic Plan

ANA provided comment on the strategic plan for the Office of National Drug Control Policy for 2022, urging support for expanding access to evidence-based treatment through nurse-led programs; advance racial equity issues related to drug policy; and investment in the public health infrastructure.

ANA Letter to NIOSH in Response to Notice of Evaluation NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Hours

In a Federal Register notice published on May 14, 2021, the National Institutes for Occupational Safety and Health invited comments on its proposed collection of information to evaluate the agency’s online training resources for nurses to improve sleep and reduce fatigue. ANA’s comment letter supports the proposed evaluation, and recommends that NIOSH include questions on health care employer practices to reduce nurse fatigue from long shift work and overtime, as well as training for nurses.

ANA Comments on the FY 2022 Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule, dated June 4, 2021

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released the FY 2022 Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities (IPFs) Prospective Payment System and Quality Reporting Updates proposed rule. As the agency considers what provisions to finalize, ANA provided comments urging the agency not to finalize reporting requirements pertaining to vaccinations among health care personnel. The comments also detail how CMS should work closely with nurses to address health care equity in IPFs and the larger health care delivery system.

ANA Comments on the FY 2022 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule, dated June 4, 2021

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) Prospective Payment System for Federal Fiscal Year 2022 and Updates to the IRF Quality Reporting Program proposed rule. As the agency considers what provisions to finalize, ANA provided comments urging the agency not to finalize reporting requirements pertaining to vaccinations among health care personnel. The comments also detail how CMS should work closely with nurses to address health care equity in IRFs and the larger health care delivery system.

ANA letter to CMS in response to Medicare’s Proposed 2022 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update

In a Federal Register noticed dated April 14, 2021, CMS published a notice of proposed rule making, Medicare Program; FY 2022 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update, Hospice Conditions of Participation Updates, Hospice and Home Health Quality Reporting Program Requirements. ANA’s comment letter urges CMS to support comprehensive and actionable reporting of health disparities for the QRP and recommends CMS include nurses’ perspectives to develop relevant data elements. 

ANA Letter to CMS in Response to Medicare’s Proposed 2022 Payment Rule for SNFs

In a Federal Register notice published on April 15, 2021, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requested comments on its proposed 2022 payment rule for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs). ANA’s comment letter 1) Opposes the proposal to collect and publish metrics on COVID-19 vaccination of SNF staff for the purposes of 2023 quality ratings; and 2) Recommends steps CMS can take to engage nurses in Medicare efforts to achieve health equity.

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services in Response to Proposed Rule, Ensuring Access to Equitable, Affordable, Client-Centered, Quality Family Planning Services, dated May 17, 2021.

In a Federal Register noticed dated April 15, 2021, the Department of Health and Human Services published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), Ensuring Access to Equitable, Affordable, Client-Centered, Quality Family Planning Services. The NPRM would restore Title X regulations to the final rule of 2000, with some modifications. In comments, ANA supports the proposal generally, and recommends additional modifications to elevate and clarify nursing rules in providing Title X care.

Letter from ANA to the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Murthy on Public Health Priorities, dated April 1, 2021.

Dr. Murthy was recently confirmed as the 21^st Surgeon General of the United States. ANA congratulated and outlined public health issues that ANA stands ready to address and partner with Dr. Murthy and his office. Those issues include the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, behavioral health, substance and opioid use disorder, and tobacco cessation.

Letter from ANA to the National Institute of Nursing Research Providing Feedback on the Agency's Strategic Plan, dated March 11, 2021.

The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) is the process of developing its 2022-2026 strategic plan and is soliciting feedback from the public. In its comments, ANA urged NINR to focus on health equity, evidence-based research, future of the profession, preparedness and mental health, technology, and payment parity as areas of research. ANA noted in its comment letter that it looks forward to future opportunities to engage in this process, as NINR's research is critical to furthering the nursing profession.

Letter from ANA to the Department of Veterans Affairs in Response to the Interim Final Rule Authority of VA Professionals To Practice Health Care, dated January 6, 2021.

In a Federal Register noticed dated November 12, 2020, the Department of Veterans Affair (VA) published an interim final rule (IFR) with comment period Authority of VA Professionals To Practice Health Care. The IFR cites and affirms the authority of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to allow nurses and other professionals to provide care in a state other than the state where they are licensed. The rule also gives notice of the VA’s intention to develop national practice standards for health care delivered in all VA facilities. In comments, ANA generally supports the rule, while asking for greater clarity on  implementation issues, such as implications for individual nurses when a state interpretation differs from that of the VA. ANA also emphasizes the need for the VA to engage stakeholders in development of national practice standards.

Letter from ANA to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission regarding Maternal and Infant Health, dated February 24, 2021.

The Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) recently focused its work on maternal and infant health. That work resulted in recommendations for Medicaid to provide 12-months postpartum coverage for eligible beneficiaries, with a 100 percent federal match. In its letter, ANA applauds the Commission for their work on this important issue, while urging them to continue to focus on other aspects of maternal and infant health. Specifically, the letter asks for MACPAC recommendations around full practice authority for Certified Nurse Midwives and Nurse Practitioners, account for nurses in Medicaid payment models targeting women's, maternal, and infant health, and reimbursement for telehealth services.

Letter from ANA to the Office for Civil Rights Regarding Proposed Modifications to the HIPAA Privacy Rule to Support Coordinated Care, dated March 3, 2021.

The Office for Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services sought public comment on proposed modifications to privacy regulations to support and facilitate better coordinated care and patient access to health information. ANA’s comment letter expressed support for the agency’s review of HIPAA privacy and security regulations to enable better care coordination and urged the agency to finalize proposed provisions related to electronic health records that will allow for greater patient access and control of their health information. ANA also expressed concern about certain provisions and urged the agency to carefully consider proposed expansion of disclosure standards and refrain from finalizing the proposed elimination of written acknowledgement of a provider’s privacy practices.

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding the Calendar Year 2021 Medicare Part B Physician Fee Schedule, dated October 5, 2020.

In a Federal Register Notice public on August 4, 2020, CMS requested comments on a proposed rule entitled "Medicare Program; CY 2021 Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment Policies; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; Medicaid Promoting Interoperability Program Requirements for Eligible Professionals; Quality Payment Program; Coverage of Opioid Use Disorder Services Furnished by Opioid Treatment Programs; Medicare Enrollment of Opioid Treatment Programs; Electronic Prescribing for Controlled Substances for a Covered Part D Drug Under a Prescription Drug Plan or an MA–PD Plan; Payment for Office/Outpatient Evaluation and Management Services; Hospital IQR Program; Establish New Code Categories; and Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) Expanded Model Emergency Policy

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2020-08-17/pdf/2020-17127.pdf

ANA in its comments encourages CMS to make permanent reimbursement for audio-only technologies following the Public Health Emergency, expand the definition of treatment services for opioid use disorder to include opioid antagonist medications, and permanently remove federal barriers to Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) practice that go beyond state regulation, specifically supervision requirements in diagnostic testing.

Letter from ANA to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding the Fiscal Year 2020 Acute Care Inpatient Hospital Prospective Payment System and Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System, dated July 1, 2020

In a Federal Register Notice published on June 1, 2020, CMS requested comments on a proposed rule entitlted "Medicare Program; Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals and the LongTerm Care Hospital Prospective Payment System and Proposed Policy Changes and Fiscal Year 2021 Rates; Quality Reporting and Medicare and Medicaid Promoting Interoperability Programs Requirements for Eligible Hospitals and Critical Access Hospitals."

ANA's comment letter urges CMS to: recognize the importance of appropriate nurse staffing levels; support proposed changes to the Medicare and Medicaid Promoting Interoperability Programs; and support continued inclusion of patient safety measures in teh PCH Quality Reporting Program.

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in response to the Request for Information regarding Maternal and Infant Care in Rural Communities, dated April 6, 2020.

On February 12, 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) sought public comment on opportunities to improve care, quality and outcomes for women and infants in rural communities. ANA submitted a response urging CMS strengthen roles for nurses and support nurse-led models in programs to improve maternal health care delivery in rural areas. Comments also suggested CMS leverage Medicaid initiatives to incentivize states to expand practice authority for advanced practice registered nurses such as certified nurse midwives and nurse practitioners.

Letter from ANA to Senate Finance Committee in response to the Committee’s request for information on improving maternal health. March 24, 2020

The American Nurses Association (ANA) is pleased to submit comments in response to the Committee’s request for information on improving maternal health. At this moment when the nation is focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all reminded that Medicaid plays a critical role in meeting the needs of our citizens when they are vulnerable. Time and again, states and communities rely on Medicaid’s federal-state partnership to address the most challenging of health and health care issues facing low-income populations. The maternal health crisis is one such challenge, and the crisis has some of its deepest and most devastating impacts on Medicaid populations. Therefore, the Committee has a critical role to play to improve maternal health and deliver better outcomes for Medicaid enrollees.

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding proposed rule for Medicare Advantage and Part D, Contract Year 2021 and 2020

In a Federal Register notice dated February 18, 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule for policy and technical changes to the Medicare Advantage (MA) program for contract years 2021 and 2022. In the proposed rule, CMS invited input on steps the agency can take to expand access to MA plans in rural areas. In comments, ANA recommended that CMS consider rule changes and subregulatory guidance to encourage MA plans to contract with more advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), for instance by removing burdensome supervision requirements, and developing new network adequacy standards and review processes.

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services regarding proposed changes to 45 CFR Part 87 governing religious organizations providing services under HHS grants, dated February 4, 2020

In a Federal Register notice dated January 17, 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed a number of changes to 45 CFR Part 87, Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, in order to extend additional protections to religious organizations that provide social services under HHS social services grants. ANA commented that the proposed rule could reduce access to HHS services while potentially placing nurses in untenable ethical positions. Specifically, ANA urged HHS not to eliminate the requirement for faith-based grantees to “undertake reasonable efforts to identify and refer the beneficiary to an alternative provider” in cases where the beneficiary objects to the religious character of an organization. ANA cited the Code of Ethics for Nurses which requires nurses making conscience-based care refusals to arrange accommodations to meet patient needs.

Letter from ANA President Ernest Grant to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding implementation of the President’s Executive Order (EO) #13890 on Protecting and Improving Medicare for Our Nation’s Seniors, dated January 17, 2020

On December 26, 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) invited public input concerning implementation of the President’s October 3, 2019, Executive Order on Protecting and Improving Medicare for Our Nation’s Seniors. CMS specifically sought suggestions for eliminating unnecessary regulatory burdens on advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). In response, ANA identified a number of specific Medicare requirements that restrict APRN practice, and expressed strong support for regulatory reform in this area. The letter further urged CMS to purse collaborative solutions with Congress in order to expand access to APRN care in Medicare.

2019

Letter from 11 APRN Organizations to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission regarding Prescribing Authority for Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Use Disorders, dated December 9, 2019.

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding Executive Order, Protecting and Improving Medicare for Our Nation’s Seniors, dated October 31, 2019.

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services in response to the proposed rule Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records

Letter from ANA to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding the Calendar Year 2020 Medicare Part B Physician Fee Schedule, date September 24, 2019.

Letter from ANA to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) in response to the Request for Information regarding Access to Rural Health Care, dated October 2, 2019.

Letter from ANA to the Bipartisan Policy Center Rural Health Task Force in response to the request for solutions that support reforming America's rural healthcare system dated September 5, 2019.

Letter from Nine Nursing Organizations to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in Response to the Request for Information Regarding Reducing Administrative Burden to Put Patients Over Paperwork, dated August 12, 2019.

Letter from ANA to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services in Response to NPRM Nondiscrimination in Health and Health Education Programs and Activities, dated August 8, 2019.

Letter from ANA to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding the Fiscal Year 2020 Acute Care Inpatient Hospital Prospective Payment System and Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System, dated June 24, 2019

Letter from ANA to the Department of Homeland Security in regards to health conditions of migrant families and individuals at centers run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, dated June 27, 2019

Letter from 10 Nursing Organizations to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in Response to the Request for Information Regarding the Sale of Individual Health Insurance Coverage Across State Lines Through Health Care Choice Compacts, dated May 6, 2019

Comments for the record from ANA to the CDC/HRSA Advisory Committee on HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and STD Prevention and Treatment

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, Pain Management Task Force in response to the Draft Report on Pain Management Best Practices: Updates, Gaps, Inconsistencies, and Recommendations dated March 22, 2019

Letter from ANA to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Policy in response to the Request for Information on Improving Efficiency, Effectiveness, Coordination, and Accountability of HIV and Viral Hepatitis Prevention, Care, and Treatment Programs, dated March 11, 2019

Letter from ANA to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions in response to the Committee’s request regarding recommendations on lowering health care costs, dated March 1, 2019

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in response to the proposed rule “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2020”, dated February 19, 2019

ANA and AAN Joint Statement on Family Separation Policy, February 8, 2019

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights in response to the proposed rule entitled “Request for Information on Modifying HIPAA Rules to Improve Coordinated Care”, dated February 8, 2019

Letter from ANA to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology in response to the draft report entitled “Strategy on Reducing Regulatory and Administrative Burden Relating to the Use of Health IT and EHRs”, dated January 24, 2019

Letter from ANA to the Food and Drug Administration in response to the Proposed Rule Institutional Review Board Waiver or Alteration of Informed Consent for Minimal Risk Clinical Investigations, dated January 9, 2019

 

2018

Letter from ANA regarding the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission discussions related to the Medicare payment policies for APRNs and the opioid epidemic dated December 20, 2018

Letter from 12 Nursing Groups to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding Regulatory Provisions to Promote Medicare and Medicaid Program Efficiency, Transparency, and Burden Reduction, dated November 16, 2018

Letter from ANA to the Department of Homeland Security in response to the proposed rule regarding Apprehension, Processing, Care, and Custody of Alien Minors and Unaccompanied Alien Children, dated November 1, 2018.

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in response to the Surgeon General’s Call to Action: “Community Health and Prosperity” dated November 1, 2018.

Letter from ANA to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses, dated September 27, 2018

Letter from ANA to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding the Calendar Year 2019 Medicare Part B Physician Fee Schedule, dated August 28, 2018

Letter from ANA and 14 Co-Signatories to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Response to the Proposed Rule Regarding the Fiscal Year 2019 Acute Care Inpatient Hospital Prospective Payment System and Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System, dated June 25, 2018

Letter from ANA and the Alliance for Nursing Informatics to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Response to the Request for Information Regarding Interoperability and Electronic Healthcare Information Exchange, dated June 25, 2018

Letter from ANA and 23 Co-Signatories to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Regarding Proposed Rule: Short-Term, Limited Duration Insurance, dated April 23, 2018

Letter from ANA and American Academy of Nursing to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights Regarding Proposed Rule: Protecting Statutory Conscience Rights in Health Care; Delegations of Authority, dated March 23, 2018

Letter from ANA and Six Co-Signatory State Nursing Associations to U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration Regarding Proposed Rule: Definition of Employer under Section 3(5) of ERISA-Association Health Plans, dated March 2, 2018

Comment Letter from ANA to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Substance Abuse Prevention National Advisory Council

Letter from ANA to Mathematica Policy Research regarding Potential Opioid Overuse Measure

Letter from ANA to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Regarding Advance Notice of Methodological Changes to Calendar Year (CY) 2019 for Medicare Advantage (MA)Capitation Rate, Part C and Part D Policies and 2019 Draft Call Letter

ANA and Alliance for Nursing Informatics Comments to The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Regarding Draft US Core Data for Interoperability (USCDI) and Proposed Expansion

ANA and Alliance for Nursing Informatics Comments to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Regarding Draft Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement

 

2017

Letter from ANA and 11 cosignatories regarding CMS subregulatory guidance excluding non-physician practitioners form serving on Medicare Carrier Advisory Committees

Letter from ANA regarding Medicare Payment Advisory Commission discussions related to Primary Care Providers and Telehealth

Letter from ANA to US Food and Drug Administration Regarding Public Comment to Opioid Policy Steering Committee: Prescribing Intervention – Exploring a Strategy for Implementation; Public Hearing Request for Comments [FDA – 2017 – N – 6502]

Letter from ANA to US Department of Veterans Affairs Regarding Authority of Health Care Providers to Practice Telehealth (RIN 2900-AQ06)

Letter from ANA to US Food and Drug Administration Regarding Packaging, Storage, and Disposal Options to Enhance Opioid Safety-Exploring the Path Forward

Letter from ANA to CMS on the proposed rule regarding Calendar Year 2018 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems, dated September 8, 2017

Letter from ANA to CMS on the proposed rule regarding revisions to the Calendar Year 2018 Physician Fee Schedule for Medicare Part B, dated September 7, 2017

Letter from ANA to CMS on the proposed rule regarding Fiscal Year 2018 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care and Long-Term Care Hospitals, dated June 13, 2017

Letter from ANA and 26 cosignatories on the proposed inclusion of two nurse staffing measures in the Inpatient Quality Reporting Program, dated June 13, 2017

Letter from ANA to OSHA Concerning the Request for Information, Prevention of Workplace Violence in Healthcare and Social Assistance, dated April 3, 2017

Letter from ANA to CMS Concerning the Proposed Rule, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Market Stabilization

ANA and the Alliance for Nursing Informatics Comments to The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Regarding Proposed Interoperability Standards Measurement Framework

Comments of ANA and 5 signatories to The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Regarding Implementation of the 21st Century Cures Act and safety for pediatric patients

ANA and Alliance for Nursing Informatics Comments Regarding CMS Innovation Center New Direction Request for Information

 

2016

Letter from ANA to CMS Concerning the Proposed Rule, Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), dated October 11, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS on Advancing Care Coordination Through Episode Payment Models, Cardiac Rehabilitation Incentive Payment Model, and Changes to the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement Model (CJR), dated September 26, 2016

Letter from ANA to the Standard Occupational Classification Policy Committee (SOCPC), U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, regarding the SOCPC Recommendations for the 2018, dated September 20, 2016

Letter from ANA to HHS regarding a Request for Information on Opioid Analgesic Prescriber Education and Training Opportunities, dated September 6, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS regarding Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems and Quality Reporting Programs, dated August 31, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS regarding Revisions to Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Revisions to Part B for CY 2017, dated August 31, 2016

Letter from ANA to SAMHSA regarding the request for Public Comment on Report Entitled: Advancing the Care of Pregnant and Parenting Women with Opioid Use Disorder and Their Infants: A Foundation for Clinical Guidance, dated August 30, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS regarding a proposed rule entitled Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate Update; Home Health Value-Based Purchasing Model; and Home Health Quality Reporting Requirements, dated August 26, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS regarding a proposed rule on the End-Stage Renal Disease Prospective Payment System, dated August 23, 2016

Letter from ANA to the CMS regarding a proposed rule on the Hospital and Critical Access Hospital Changes, dated August 15, 2016

Letter from ANA to the Department of Veterans Affairs regarding a proposed rule entitled Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, dated July 19, 2015

Letter from ANA to Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues, regarding the role of past, present, and future national bioethics advisory bodies, dated June 28, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS on the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System and Alternative Payment Model Incentive under the Physician Fee Schedule, and Criteria for Physician-Focused Payment Models, dated June 27, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS on the 2017 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals, dated June 17, 2016

Letter from ANA to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, regarding Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorders, dated May 23, 2016

Letter from ANA to the National Coordinator for Health Information and Technology, concerning the Interoperability Pledge, dated April 19, 2016

Letter from ANA to SAMHSA concerning Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records, dated April 7, 2016

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning proposed vaccine information statements for hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines, dated April 6, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS concerning the Draft Quality Measures Development Plan, dated March 1, 2016

Letter from ANA to the Senate Finance Committee's Bipartisan Chronic Care Working Group, dated January 26, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS concerning a Request for Information "To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey Regarding Patient and Family Member Experiences With Care Received in Long-Term Care Hospitals," dated January 19, 2016

Letter from ANA to CMS concerning a Request for Information "To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey Regarding Patient and Family Member Experiences With Care Received in Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities," dated January 19, 2016

Letter from ANA to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) concerning a proposed rule Instituting Smoke-Free Public Housing, dated January 11, 2016

Letter from ANA to HHS concerning comments to the Common Rule, dated January 6, 2016

 

2015

Letter from ANA to CMS concerning discharge planning, dated December 21, 2015

Letter from ANA to HHS concerning the HHS Notice of Benefits and Payment Parameters for 2017 proposed rule, dated December 21, 2015

Letter from ANA to National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, concerning ANA comments on proposed Vaccine Information Materials for HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Gardasil®-9 Vaccine, dated December 10, 2015

Letter from ANA to National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, concerning ANA comments on proposed revised Vaccine Information Materials for Meningococcal ACWY and Serogroup BMeningococcal Vaccines, dated December 10, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Food and Drug Administration concerning the use of the term "Natural" in the labeling of human food products, dated December 7, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning ANA comments on implementation of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (including the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System, Alternative Payment Models and Incentive Payments), dated November 16, 2015

ANA Letter to the Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, concerning Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities, dated November 9, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Office of National Coordinator for Health IT concerning the 2016 Interoperability Standards Advisory Best Available Standards and Implementation Specifications, dated November 6, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning Reform of Requirements for Long-Term Care Facilities, dated October 13, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight concerning Essential Health Benefits Benchmark Plans for 2017, dated September 30, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning Reform of Requirements for Long-Term Care Facilities, dated September 14, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning Revisions to Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Revisions to Part B for CY 2016, dated September 4, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement Payment Model for Acute Care Hospitals Furnishing Lower Extremity Joint Replacement Services, dated September 4, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate Update, dated August 28, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System, dated August 28, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, concerning, the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Prospective Payment System, dated August 25, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Programs, dated July 17, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), concerning vaccine information statement for influenza vaccines, dated July 14, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), concerning vaccine information statement pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, dated July 14, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals and the Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System Policy Changes and Fiscal Year 2016 Rates; Revisions of Quality Reporting Requirements for Specific Providers, Including Changes Related to the Electronic Health Record Incentive Program, dated June 15, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding comments on Modifications to Meaningful Use in 2015 through 2017, dated June 12, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), regarding comments on Stage 3 Meaningful Use (MU) Rules, dated May 27, 2015 

ANA Response to Call for Public Comment on the Draft National Pain Strategy dated May 19, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Office of National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC), regarding comments on the 2015 Interoperability Standards Advisory, dated April 29, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding an information collection request titled, "Bloodborne Pathogens Standard," dated April 1, 2015

Letter from ANA to the National Coordinator, Office of National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC), regarding comments on "Connecting Health and Care for the Nation: A Shared Nationwide Interoperability Roadmap Draft Version 1.0," dated April 2, 2015

Letter from ANA to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, dated March 19, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Health and Human Services concerning the Draft National Adult Immunization Plan, dated March 12, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Disease concerning the "Proposed Revised Vaccine Information Materials for Multiple Pediatric Vaccines (‘Your Baby's First Vaccines')," dated March 6, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services and the Internal Revenue Service, concerning the proposed rule, "Summary of Benefits and Coverage and Uniform Glossary, dated February 27, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Department of Veterans Affairs concerning the proposed rule entitled "Expanded Access to Non-VA Care Through the Veterans Choice Program," dated February 26, 2015

Letter from ANA to AHRQ regarding comments on proposed changes to the CAHPS Clinician & Group (CG–CAHPS) Survey and the Patient-Centered Medical Home Item Set, dated February 13, 2015.

Letter from ANA to the Federal Trade Commission, dated February 12, 2015

Letter from ANA to the Office of National Coordinator (ONC) for Health IT concerning the draft Federal Health IT Strategic Plan: 2015–2020, dated February 5, 2015

Letter from ANA to CMS concerning a proposed rule on the Medicare Shared Savings Program: Accountable Care Organizations, dated February 4, 2015

February 6, 2015, ANA was one of eleven nursing organizations recommending that CMS remove the requirement that a Medical Director who is a physician must oversee clinical management and oversight.

Letter from ANA to the Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues, dated January 28, 2015.

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dated January 22, 2015.

Letter from ANA to the HHS Office for Human Research Protections, dated January 15, 2015.

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services,  dated January 5, 2015

2014

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (December 19, 2014).

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding Home health Prospective Payment (September 2, 2014).

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding Medicare Program/Medicare Fee Schedule (August 29, 2014).

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (July 1, 2014)

Letter from ANA to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (June 27, 2014)

Letter from the National Health Service Corps Stakeholder associations (including the American Nurses Association) to members of the Senate and House of Representatives (April 4, 2014)

Addressed to the Federal Trade Commission regarding their request for comments with respect to the public workshop that was held on March 20 and 21, 2014.

 

2013

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding proposed changes in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule:

DME Face-to-Face Encounters Rule Letter [pdf]

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): Inpatient Prospective Payment system (IPPS) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: APRNs can provide essential health benefits to be offered in Health Insurance Exchanges (July 19, 2013)

Addressed to the Institute on Medicine: Comments on Institute on Medicine's study panel to identify core measure set based on the Triple Aim (April 8, 2013)

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Medicare Program; Request for Information (April 8, 2013)

2012

Addressed to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: Comments on A Prototype Consumer Reporting System for Patient Safety Events (September 10, 2012)

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on the Proposed Physician Fee Schedule (August 30, 2012)

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on the Proposed Inpatient Prospective Payment System (June 24, 2012)

Addressed to the Department of Health and Human Services: Comments on Certain Preventive Services (June 18, 2012)

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on Stage 2 Meaningful Use Proposed Rules (May 7, 2012)

Addressed to the Department of Health and Human Services: Comments on the National Providers Data Bank (April 16, 2012)

Addressed to the Food and Drug Administration: Comments on Improving Microbiological Safety of Cosmetic Products (January 23, 2012)

 

2011

Addressed to the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on Proposed Revisions to the Hospital Conditions of Participation (December 23, 2011)

Addressed to the Office of Budget and Management: Comments on National Sample Survey of Nurse Practitioners (December 7, 2011)

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on State Insurance Exchanges (October 24, 2011) [pdf]

Letter from ANA to HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius regarding the use of physician-centric language (October 12, 2011) [pdf]

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on Proposed Rule on Medicaid Home Health Services (September 12, 2011) [pdf]

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on Proposed Outpatient Prospective Payment System (August 30, 2011) [pdf]

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Comments on Proposed Conditions of Participation for Community Mental Health Centers (August 16, 2011) [pdf]

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on Proposed Condition of Participation for Patient Influenza Vaccination Programs (July 8, 2011) [pdf]

Addressed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on 2012 Inpatient Prospective Payment System (June 15, 2011) [pdf]

To the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Comments on Proposed Accountable Care Organization Rule (May 31, 2011) [pdf]

To the Federal Trade Commission/Department of Justice Antitrust Division: Comments on Proposed Modifications of the Antitrust Laws to Develop Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) (May 31, 2011) [pdf]

To the Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research: Comments on Medicaid Program: Initial Core Set of Health Quality Measures for Medicaid-Eligible Adults (February 28, 2011) [pdf]

To the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Ensure that handbooks use provider-neutral language (February 28, 2011) [pdf]

To the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Medicare Program; Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act: Applicability to Hospital and Critical Access Hospital Inpatients and Hospitals With Specialized Capabilities (February 22, 2011) [pdf]

DEA: Procedures for Surrender of Unwanted Controlled Substances by Ultimate Users (January 12, 2011) [pdf]

 

2010

Affordable Care Act

To the Director of Center for Medicare Services: Comments on Request for Information Regarding Accountable Care Organizations and the Medicare Shared Saving Program(December 3, 2010) [pdf]

To the Secretary of Health and Human Services: Comments on Interim Final Rules for Group Health Plans and Health Insurance Issuers Relating to Coverage of Preventive Services Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (September 17, 2010) [pdf]

To the Director of Center for Medicare Services: Comments on Home Health Prospective Payment System (September 14, 2010) [pdf]

To the Director of the Centers for Medicare Services: Comments on Outpatient & Ambulatory Surgical Center Services Prospective Payment Systems (August 31, 2010) [pdf]

To the Director of Centers for Medicare Services: Comments on Inpatient Prospective Payment System (August 24, 2010) [pdf]

To the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Comments on Guidance for Influenza Control (July 21, 2010) [pdf]

Other Issues

HHS: HIT Policy Committee Quality Measures Workgroup: New Pressure Ulcer Risk and Prevention Measures for Stages 2 and 3 Meaningful Use (December 23, 2010) [pdf]

DEA: Propofol Controlled Substances Classification (December 23, 2010) [pdf]

EPA: Best Management Practices for Unused Pharmaceuticals at Health Care Facilities (November 8, 2010) [pdf]

FDA: 2011-2015 Strategic Priorities (November 1, 2010)

HHS: Priorities for 2011 National Quality Strategy (October 15, 2010)

Bioethics Commission: Synthetic Biology (September 28, 2010)

HHS: HIPAA-HITECH Proposed Rule (September 10, 2010) [pdf]

CDC: National Ambulatory Care Survey (September 10, 2010)

OSHA: Infectious Diseases (July 30, 2010)

EPA: Draft Strategic Plan for 2011-2015 (July 28, 2010)

CMS: Hospital Conditions of Participation - Telemedicine Credentialing Proposed Rule (July 21, 2010)

NIH: Genetics Education & Training (June 30, 2010)

CMS: Medicaid Hospital Conditions of Participation for Rehabilitation & Respiratory Services (June 18, 2010)

CMS: Inpatient Acute & Long Term Care Proposed Rule (June 18, 2010)

OSHA: Injury and Illness Collection Process (June 11, 2010)

FDA: Bisphenol A (June 2, 2010)

DEA: Electronic Prescriptions for Controlled Substances (June 1, 2010)

CEQ: Draft Guidance on Climate Change & Greenhouse Gas Emissions (May 24, 2010)

CMS/HHS: EHR Proposed Rule & HIT Initial Standards/Interim Final Rule (March 15, 2010)

OSHA: Occupational Injury & Illness Recording & Reporting Requirements (March 11, 2010)

AHRQ: Children's Healthcare Quality Measures - Medicaid & CHIP (March 1, 2010)

FDA: Informed Consent Elements Proposed Rule (March 1, 2010)

EPA: Public Availability of Identities of Inert Ingredients in Pesticides (February 27, 2010)

EPA: Dioxin in Soil at CERCLA & RCRA Sites (February 27, 2010)

 

 

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting Midwifery Education Programs

On April 1, ANA joined on to a letter urging Congress to maintain funding levels for accredited midwifery education programs in Fiscal Year 2025.

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting Funding for Child Health and Human Development Research

On April 1, ANA joined Friends of NICHD members on a letter requesting an increase in funding for the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in Fiscal Year 2025.

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting National Institutes of Health Funding

In March, ANA signed on to an Ad Hoc Group for Medical Research letter recommending an increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Fiscal Year 2025. 

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting Access to Telehealth

On February 22, ANA signed on to an Alliance for Connected Care letter urging Congress to permanently extend telehealth flexibilities ahead of the December 31, 2024 deadline. 

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting the Dr. Lorna Breen Reauthorization Act

On February 15, ANA signed on to a letter thanking Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Todd Young (R-IN), and Representatives Susan Wild (D-PA), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), and Buddy Carter (R-GA) for championing legislation to reauthorize the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act. This law increases access to mental health care for health care providers.

ANA Signs on to Letter Urging Congress to reauthorize the SUPPORT Act

On February 9, ANA signed on to a Mental Health Liaison Group coalition letter in support of legislation to reauthorize the Substance Use Disorder Prevention That Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities (SUPPORT) Act. This law makes investments to treat substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.

ANA Signs on to Letter Urging EPA to Finalize Lead and Copper Rule  

On February 5, ANA joined Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments members on a letter urging the Environmental Protection Agency to finalize their Lead and Copper Rule without delay. The letter provided comments on how to improve the rule to ensure our communities have access to safe drinking water. 

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting the Healthy Start Program  

On January 18, ANA signed on to a letter urging Congress to combat the ongoing maternal and infant health crisis by funding the Healthy Start program.

ANA Signs on to Letter Supporting the PREEMIE and Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Acts 

On January 17, ANA and its health care partners issued a letter to congressional leaders urging Congress to include the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act and Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act in the final Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations package.

ANA Signs on to Letter Rejecting Non-Defense Cuts to Spending for FY 2024 

On January 8, ANA signed on to a letter alongside over 1,100 organizations rejecting cuts to non-defense discretionary spending for Fiscal Year 2024 and calling for continued investment in public health and other healthcare services.