HIMSS: Legislation

Legislation in healthcare refers to laws and regulations that govern the healthcare industry. These laws can be enacted at the federal, state, or local level and can cover a wide range of issues, including:

Access to healthcare: Laws that aim to ensure that all individuals have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the United States, which includes provisions for expanding Medicaid coverage and creating health insurance marketplaces.

Provider standards: Laws that establish standards for healthcare providers, such as licensing requirements and scope of practice regulations.

Patient rights: Laws that protect the rights of patients, such as laws that guarantee patient privacy, protect patients from discrimination, and establish procedures for handling medical errors.

Public health: Laws that aim to improve the overall health of the population, such as laws that regulate the sale of tobacco and alcohol, and require vaccinations.

Medical malpractice: Laws that establish standards of care and procedures for handling medical malpractice claims.

Insurance and reimbursement: Laws that regulate the healthcare insurance industry and establish procedures for reimbursement of healthcare services.

Research and drug development: Laws that govern the conduct of medical research and regulate the development, testing, and approval of new drugs and medical devices.

Legislation in healthcare plays a crucial role in shaping the healthcare system and protecting the rights of patients and healthcare providers. It also has a big impact on the cost and accessibility of healthcare.