Cummings Welcomes Investment In Health Infrastructure

Cummings Welcomes Investment In Health Infrastructure
Congressman pleased with HHS Consumer Assistance Grants.

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (MD-07) today applauded the Department of Health and Human Services for their rapid action to help States put Americans in charge of their health care. HHS announced Tuesday that Consumer Assistance Grants would be awarded to the States, with a total award of nearly $30 million.

These grants will support States’ efforts to establish or strengthen consumer assistance programs that provide direct services to consumers with questions or concerns regarding their health insurance. They allow States, in some cases partnering with local non-profits, to help strengthen and enhance ongoing efforts in the States and local communities to protect consumers from some of the worst insurance industry practices.

“These grants are critical to help Americans understand the great opportunities they have to improve both their health and the quality of care and service they receive,” said Cummings. “Our greatest wealth is our health, and these grants will help folks here in Maryland and throughout the country learn how they can enrich their lives with better healthcare options. This is just another of the great steps taken by HHS to help Americans understand their new healthcare regulations.”

A description of Maryland’s award and planned uses is below:

Office of Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division, Health Education and Advocacy Unit (HEAU) - Amount Awarded: $599,220

Hire additional staff to assist with additional consumers, including:

·        Deputy Director to help manage the cases and HEAU staff.

·        Two additional Health Ombudsman.

·        Additional support staff member.

·        Medical professional to assist the Ombudsmen in preparing appeals and grievances, especially in cases involving medical necessity.

·        Outreach coordinator to educate consumer and providers about the HEAU.

·        Provide more consumers with assistance with the appeals and grievance processes.

·        Generate reports that are required under the grant program.

The grants build on other programs and initiatives recently announced by HHS to help consumers make decisions about their care, including www.HealthCare.gov, where consumers already can find health insurance options customized to their needs and locations. Specifically, these grants will:

·        Help consumers enroll in health coverage;

·        Help consumers file complaints and appeals against health plans;

·        Educate consumers about their rights and empower them to take action; and

·        Track consumer complaints to help identify problems and strengthen enforcement.

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