Federal Update...
As Congress wrapped up its business for the session, Ways and Means Chairman Bill Thomas (D-CA) added a version of the physician rate correction to an unrelated unemployment compensation bill. The measure passed the House by a voice vote, but the Senate is not expected to agree. Several senators are said to be concerned about singling out a single provider - physicians - for relief when action is needed for a number of providers, including rural and teaching hospitals, and home health agencies. Chief among these is Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA), who will chair the Finance Committee next year. The language approved by the House would not directly correct the problems with Medicare’s payment formula for physicians. Instead, it would clear the way for corrections without fear of a legal challenge. Additionally, the House and Senate approved the National Science Foundation reauthorization bill. It now goes to the President for signature.

Massachusetts Update...
Six committees and 97 people will help to organize the transition for Governor-elect Mitt Romney. The groups will recommend policy, help recruit for cabinet-level positions, and be an access point for sharing ideas and information. Charlie Baker, president and CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, and a former official in the Weld and Cellucci administrations, is chairing the health care committee. Hospital representatives include Michael Collins of Caritas Christi and Sandra Fenwick of Children’s Hospital. MGH’s Charles Welch, MD, is representing the Massachusetts Medical Society. A list of all committee members is available from Partners Government Relations.