April 14, 2020

Dear Friends,

Today, I released a resource that will be helpful to doctors in navigating this Coronavirus outbreak and the financial implications their practices may face. This fact sheet includes important information about federal financial support options and implementation of the CARES Act. Doctors are encouraged to review this resource page and share with others who may find it useful.

You can find it by clicking here.

National Update:
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued updated FAQs for State Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) agencies. This resource page covers topics such as the implementation of the CARES Act, the availability of an enhanced Federal Medical Assistance Percentage, implications for CHIP, and more. 

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in conjunction with the Departments of Labor and the Treasury released new FAQs regarding Coronavirus legislation. This resource page answers questions about the implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the CARES Act, and other health coverage concerns states, localities, and individuals may have. 

HHS announces new ventilator contracts to General Electric, Hill-Rom, Medtronic, ResMed, Vyaire, Hamilton and Zoll. These contracts were awarded under the Defense Production Act for over 130,000 ventilators in total. American companies have stepped up to repurpose and retool factories to produce ventilators to help American patients.

HHS works to facilitate the development of immunotherapies for COVID-19 patients. HHS is working with a number of non-government organizations to develop convalescent plasma and hyperimmune globulin immunotherapies. The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority is working to with the American Red Cross, Emergent BioSolutions, Grifols, and Sab Biotherapeutics to facilitate the development of these investigational treatments.

The Federal Trade Commission has issued new warning letters with the Food and Drug Administration. These warning letters have been issued to companies who are allegedly selling unapproved products that violate the law by making deceptive or scientifically unsupported claims regarding treatment or cures for COVID-19. The list of all companies who have been sent these letters are available here.

Support for Veterans:
The Department of Veterans Affairs has a new official podcast that engages veterans and members of the military community. This podcase Borne the Battle highlights the importance of sharing information, bridging the divide between military and civilians, and positive stories for veterans. 

Texas Update:
Governor Abbott announced that Goldman Sachs and the LiftFund will be partnering to provide loans for small businesses in Texas. Goldman Sachs, LiftFund, and other community development financial institutions will be providing $50 million in loans to small businesses that have been impacted by this Coronavirus outbreak. These loans will be made through the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program.

Until tomorrow, this is your doctor's note.

Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D.