Accelerating Health Policy

In this episode of the Accelerate Health Podcast, John Sharp, director of thought advisory with HIMSS, speaks to the HIMSS Government Relations team about the health policy environment post-election in the U.S. Senior Manager of Connected Health Policy David Gray sets the stage for the discussion, clarifying where the Congress really stands right now, what we are likely to see during the lame-duck session, and what the future may hold for the next Congress. Senior Vice President of Government Relations Tom Leary discusses HIMSS's priorities for the coming year, including supporting the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and the continuing challenges of distributing personal protective equipment. Director of State and Local Affairs Valerie Rogers adds some insight into the struggles the states are facing as the damage COVID-19 has done to their budgets grows more acute, and also touches on how states are embracing telehealth and other technologies. Finally, Senior Director of Government Relations Jeff Coughlin talks about possible priorities for the incoming Biden administration.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted healthcare in many ways, and federal, state and local policy changes have created a chaotic environment for healthcare leaders planning for the near and long-term future. Our policy experts help cut through the clutter and offer some predictions for what we can expect from federal and state leaders, whether action or inaction. With a COVID-19 surge happening now and a vaccine on the horizon, keeping track of the decisions that government leaders make is more important than ever. This discussion can serve as a primer as you dip your toes into the water the of government’s impact on healthcare delivery.

The team will also take a look towards the future, and touch on some of HIMSS’s ongoing initiatives including health equity, cybersecurity, and the changing role of the consumer in healthcare. And, of course, the new focus on public health and pandemic response that is certain to grow from our assessment of the current pandemic. COVID-19 has highlighted many areas in the healthcare system that will require focus and coordinated effort to shore-up in the coming years, and the HIMSS’s Government Relations team remains an important resource for members and for federal and state leaders as they seek advice on the important decisions before them.