The war against disease and disability
Article Abstract:
Federal spending on medical research deserves high priority in government budget debates. Attempts to cut funding to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by as much as 10% have been made by both political parties, despite the fact that only 1.1% of US spending on health care goes towards research, the NIH's main purpose. NIH funding will not be cut in 1996, but the reprieve the agency received from Congress only lasts one year. Current spending levels are too low and should be increased, not decreased. A proposed tobacco tax, with revenue ear-marked for Medicare and medical research, does not appear to have the needed political support, despite having the support of the American public. Politicians need to recognize that medical research saves money in the long term and is an investment in a healthy nation and a balanced budget.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1995
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Health reform for the 21st century? It may have to wait until the 21st century
Article Abstract:
Congress does not appear likely to undertake major health care legislation. Off-the-record interviews with Democrat and Republican staff members in both houses revealed the following: Enactment of initiatives to benefit children or the unemployed is unlikely. A stronger economy and confidence in Medicaid has reduced concern. Medicaid growth has slowed, relieving political pressure for cuts. Congress has little interest in tax-related proposals such as medical savings accounts or Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) amendments. The approaching insolvency of Medicare will not be addressed because cuts would be unpopular. Managed care legislation may be an area of interest.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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