-
May 14, 2013
Economic Viability of Dental Therapists
This report assesses the economic viability of services provided by practicing midlevel dental providers in the U.S. and shows that they are expanding preventive dental care to people who need it most: children and those who can't afford care.
-
May 14, 2013
Infographic: Dental Therapists Are A Smart Investment
Dental therapists are increasing access to oral health care especially for those who need it most: low-income families, people of color, people living in rural areas, and those on Medicaid.
-
April 25, 2013
Premium Rate Impact under the Affordable Care Act
Community Catalyst’s fact sheet looks at some of the recent information on sudden premium increases due to coverage changes in the ACA. Between federal subsidies, Medicaid, CHIP, parental coverage, and catastrophic plans for young people, the scope of rate impact is significantly limited. Consumers will also be receiving more value for their dollars in their benefit packages.
-
April 16, 2013
Greater Than the Sum: Using Integrated Care to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities among Dual Eligibles
This report discusses the dual eligible demonstration projects as an opportunity to address racial and ethnic health disparities among the dual eligible population.
-
April 16, 2013
Greater Than the Sum: Using Integrated Care to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities among Dual Eligibles Role for Consumers
This guide explains how consumer advocates, particularly those from communities of color, can get involved in shaping these programs to advance health equity.
-
April 25, 2013
Premium Rate Impact under the Affordable Care Act
Community Catalyst’s fact sheet looks at some of the recent information on sudden premium increases due to coverage changes in the ACA. Between federal subsidies, Medicaid, CHIP, parental coverage, and catastrophic plans for young people, the scope of rate impact is significantly limited. Consumers will also be receiving more value for their dollars in their benefit packages.
-
March 18, 2013
Comments on Issuer Letter Proposed Guidance
Community Catalyst’s comments on proposed guidance on the instructions from CMS to help insurers work with federally facilitated Exchanges (FFEs) and partnership Exchanges.
-
March 05, 2013
Comments on Single Streamlined Applications for the Health Insurance Marketplace
Community Catalyst’s comments on the PRA for CMS Form Numbers 10440 and 10438, the Single Streamlined Applications for the Health Insurance Marketplace, to ensure that all children and families, particularly those with mixed immigration statuses and limited English proficiency (LEP) are able to access the forms and the benefits of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
-
February 27, 2013
Comments on Medicaid, Children's Health Insurance Programs and Exchanges
Community Catalyst’s comments on a proposed rule that covers a wide range of important ACA implementation issues including: benefits packages for new Medicaid eligibles, Medicaid cost-sharing, the Certified Application Counselor program, and eligibility and enrollment in Medicaid, CHIP and Exchanges.
-
September 12, 2012
Comments on Additional Requirements for Charitable Hospitals
Community Catalyst and 41 national state and local organizations respond to the Internal Revenue Services' proposed rule Additional Requirements for Charitable Hospitals.
- More in ACA Implementation »
-
May 14, 2013
Economic Viability of Dental Therapists
This report assesses the economic viability of services provided by practicing midlevel dental providers in the U.S. and shows that they are expanding preventive dental care to people who need it most: children and those who can't afford care.
-
May 14, 2013
Infographic: Dental Therapists Are A Smart Investment
Dental therapists are increasing access to oral health care especially for those who need it most: low-income families, people of color, people living in rural areas, and those on Medicaid.
-
November 30, 2012
Health Homes: Rhode Island’s Development of a Pediatric Health Home Model
This paper details the development of Rhode Island's pediatric health home program, which provides coordinated, community-based services to children and youth with special health care needs.
-
October 01, 2012
The Sickle Cell Treatment Act of 2003: The Law's Provisions and Opportunities for Advocacy
This two-page document provides a short summary of the key provisions of the Sickle Cell Treatment Act of 2003 and presents the opportunities for advocacy related to this law. Additional information can be found in the accompanying policy brief.
-
October 01, 2012
The Sickle Cell Treatment Act of 2003: The Law's Provisions and Opportunities for Advocacy Policy Brief
This policy brief outlines the implications of The Sickle Cell Treatment Act (SCTA). The brief discusses provisions, benefits and opportunities for advocacy at the state level for improved care and outcomes for those living with sickle cell disease.
- More in Children's Health »
-
November 19, 2012
Avenues for Consumer Engagement to Shape Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports
The development of Medicaid Managed long-term services and supports (LTSS) in any state creates openings for consumer engagement. To mitigate the risks and maximize the potential
benefits of the program, consumer advocates must get involved when the program is first planned and stay involved as it unfolds.
-
November 19, 2012
Executive Summary: Putting Consumers First: Promising Practices for Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports
More states are adopting managed care for the long-term services and supports (LTSS) needed to help Medicaid beneficiaries live with chronic illnesses and disabilities. This guide includes LTSS 101, policy recommendations, promising practices, and tips for engagement to help shape Medicaid managed LTSS to better serve consumers.
-
November 19, 2012
Putting Consumers First: Promising Practices for Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports
More states are adopting managed care for the long-term services and supports (LTSS) needed to help Medicaid beneficiaries live with chronic illnesses and disabilities. This guide includes LTSS 101, policy recommendations, promising practices, and tips for engagement to help shape Medicaid managed LTSS to better serve consumers.
-
August 30, 2012
All for One and One for All: Promising Practices for Consumer Health Advocacy Collaboration
In working closely with state-based advocates that are building or maintaining consumer health coalitions, Community Catalyst identified some important lessons and promising practices for others who are developing their own collaborations.
-
August 30, 2012
Executive Summary: All for One and One for All: Promising Practices for Consumer Health Advocacy Collaboration
In working closely with state advocates, Community Catalyst identified important lessons and promising practices for others who are developing their own collaborations and found four common factors that influence the successful establishment and maintenance of statewide health advocacy networks of coalitions.
- More in Consumer Engagement & Organizing »
-
October 09, 2012
FAQ: Does the ACA Help Families with Hospital Bills?
Recently, the IRS released draft rules that will further regulate hospital behavior, with some real wins for patients and families. This FAQ answers some common questions about the draft rules.
-
May 02, 2012
Assessing Consumer Protections in the Final Exchange Regulations
Based on Community Catalyst’s work with advocates to develop state Exchanges around the country, we have updated a document that highlights 10 important priorities for consumers.
-
August 01, 2011
Assessing Consumer Protections in the July 2011 HHS Exchange Regulations
Based on Community Catalyst’s work to help develop state Exchanges around the country, this document highlights 10 important priorities for consumers and outlines key areas that require stronger protections or clarification in the federal regulations.
-
March 19, 2010
Gains in the States: Consumer Advocacy and Federal-State Alliances Help Expand Health Coverage
Despite a deep economic recession and the promise of national health care reform, states advanced access to quality affordable health care in 2009.
-
August 31, 2009
Progress Despite Barriers: Public demand spurs expansion of health coverage
Many states expanded health care coverage in 2008, despite the economic crisis that exacerbated the burden of health costs on state budgets and forced states to make drastic spending cuts, according to two nationwide surveys. Drawing on public demand for quality, affordable health care, consumer advocates provided much of the impetus for these expansions.
- More in Coverage for the Uninsured »
-
October 09, 2012
FAQ: Does the ACA Help Families with Hospital Bills?
Recently, the IRS released draft rules that will further regulate hospital behavior, with some real wins for patients and families. This FAQ answers some common questions about the draft rules.
-
October 09, 2012
Summary of Proposed Rules for Non-Profit Hospitals' Financial Assistance, Billing and Collection Practices
Low- and middle-income families can be financially devastated by medical debt. The Affordable Care Act requires hospitals fufill certain requirements to protect low- and middle-income patients from medical debt. Community Catalyst outlines the rules IRS has proposed to hold hospitals accountable.
-
October 05, 2012
Comments to the IRS and Treasury on the Notice "Additional Requirements for Charitable Hospitals"
Community Catalyst and other organizations weigh in with the IRS and Treasury on requirements for charitable hospitals that help patients address the financial toll hospital bills can take.
-
September 23, 2011
Comments on Community Health Needs Assessment Requirements for Tax-Exempt Hospitals
Community Catalyst, along with 56 other organizations, submitted comments regarding the community health needs assessment for tax-exempt hospitals to the Internal Revenue Service
-
June 23, 2011
Community Catalyst Letter to the Treasury regarding making Schedule H Optional for 2011
Community Catalyst was disappointed to learn of the IRS decision to make reporting on compliance with consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act optional for tax-exempt hospitals for Tax Year 2010. These protections, found in Section 9007 of the Affordable Care Act, offer significant relief from medical debt and improve access to health care for low- and middle income families.
- More in Free Care & Community Benefits »
-
April 16, 2013
Greater Than the Sum: Using Integrated Care to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities among Dual Eligibles
This report discusses the dual eligible demonstration projects as an opportunity to address racial and ethnic health disparities among the dual eligible population.
-
April 16, 2013
Greater Than the Sum: Using Integrated Care to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities among Dual Eligibles Role for Consumers
This guide explains how consumer advocates, particularly those from communities of color, can get involved in shaping these programs to advance health equity.
-
March 05, 2013
Comments on Single Streamlined Applications for the Health Insurance Marketplace
Community Catalyst’s comments on the PRA for CMS Form Numbers 10440 and 10438, the Single Streamlined Applications for the Health Insurance Marketplace, to ensure that all children and families, particularly those with mixed immigration statuses and limited English proficiency (LEP) are able to access the forms and the benefits of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
-
February 20, 2013
Advancing Health Reform by Inclusion: Engaging Communities of Color in Creating Policy Change
The Affordable Care Act will directly impact communities of color by providing them with unique opportunities to gain health coverage and hopefully get quality care. Since the best change occurs when the communities most affected are involved, it is important that communities of color are engaged in creating policy change to advance health reform. Meaningful engagement goes beyond participation via grassroots organizing and outreach. It requires communities of color to have a more active role in each step of the policy implementation process. This report identifies emerging and effective practices state consumer health advocacy and community-based organizations use to engage communities of color to advance the ACA.
-
March 08, 2012
Promoting Racial and Ethnic Health Equity Through Exchanges
Health disparities among racial and ethnic groups are persistent and drive up the cost of care for everyone. Despite national and local efforts to address disparities, people of color continue to
experience poorer health than their white counterparts. Health Insurance Exchanges provide paths to advance racial and ethnic health equity.
- More in Health Care Equity »
-
October 09, 2012
FAQ: Does the ACA Help Families with Hospital Bills?
Recently, the IRS released draft rules that will further regulate hospital behavior, with some real wins for patients and families. This FAQ answers some common questions about the draft rules.
-
October 05, 2012
Comments to the IRS and Treasury on the Notice "Additional Requirements for Charitable Hospitals"
Community Catalyst and other organizations weigh in with the IRS and Treasury on requirements for charitable hospitals that help patients address the financial toll hospital bills can take.
-
September 23, 2011
Comments on Community Health Needs Assessment Requirements for Tax-Exempt Hospitals
Community Catalyst, along with 56 other organizations, submitted comments regarding the community health needs assessment for tax-exempt hospitals to the Internal Revenue Service
-
September 10, 2010
Protecting Consumers, Encouraging Community Dialogue: ACA Requirements for Non-profit Hospitals
This summary analyzes the ACA requirements private non-profit hospitals must meet and the increased reporting and oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance and transparency.
-
May 05, 2010
Best Kept Secrets: Are Non-Profit Hospitals Informing Patients About Charity Care Programs?
This report from The Access Project and Community Catalyst show that many non-profit hospitals are not doing enough to meet AHA guidelines to have clear, written policies to help patients determine if they qualify for charity care and to make these policies available to patients and the public.
- More in Medical Debt »
-
May 14, 2013
Infographic: Dental Therapists Are A Smart Investment
Dental therapists are increasing access to oral health care especially for those who need it most: low-income families, people of color, people living in rural areas, and those on Medicaid.
-
March 04, 2013
Medicaid Report Card
This webtool will help you propose budget-saving alternatives to harmful Medicaid cuts. Just click on your state to get a customized list of policies your state could enact to reduce costs while maintaining or even improving patient care.
-
November 30, 2012
Health Homes: Rhode Island’s Development of a Pediatric Health Home Model
This paper details the development of Rhode Island's pediatric health home program, which provides coordinated, community-based services to children and youth with special health care needs.
-
November 19, 2012
Avenues for Consumer Engagement to Shape Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports
The development of Medicaid Managed long-term services and supports (LTSS) in any state creates openings for consumer engagement. To mitigate the risks and maximize the potential
benefits of the program, consumer advocates must get involved when the program is first planned and stay involved as it unfolds.
-
November 19, 2012
Executive Summary: Putting Consumers First: Promising Practices for Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports
More states are adopting managed care for the long-term services and supports (LTSS) needed to help Medicaid beneficiaries live with chronic illnesses and disabilities. This guide includes LTSS 101, policy recommendations, promising practices, and tips for engagement to help shape Medicaid managed LTSS to better serve consumers.
- More in Medicaid »
-
January 15, 2013
Better Care at Lower Costs
An approach to reduce federal health spending by weeding out wasteful spending.
-
October 05, 2012
Comments to the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services on Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Policies
Community Catalyst provides another perspective on some of the recommendations made by the National Association of Medicaid Directors to the Center.
-
September 14, 2012
Best Practices for Meaningful Consumer Input in New Health Care Delivery Models
This issue brief outlines a framework for thinking about the best practices that are needed to ensure a meaningful consumer voice in new care delivery models.
-
August 21, 2012
Guide to Recess Activities to Protect Medicaid & Medicare
Medicaid and Medicare are under attack, and August recess provides an opportunity to educate Members of Congress about the importance of Medicaid and Medicare and of protecting them against cuts this year, and to raise the profile of the programs more broadly.
-
July 03, 2012
Letter to Secretary Sebelius Regarding the Dual Demonstration Projects
As states have rapidly rolled out their proposals, we have become increasingly concerned that claims of potential savings and/or the speed with which those savings can be achieved is being overstated. In particular, we have three closely related concerns: that savings targets are not yet transparent, that the assumptions on which projected savings are based may be either opaque or overly optimistic and that insufficient safeguards are in place to guard against the potential for either windfall profits or catastrophic losses, either one of which would undermine the goals of the demonstration, and cause harm to people with disabilities and seniors.
- More in Medicare »
-
November 04, 2011
Protecting Seniors by Ensuring Safe Drug Manufacturing
The U.S. pharmaceutical industry produces vital and innovative medicines that contribute to the health and independence of seniors. However, vulnerabilities in the manufacturing processes and distribution system for these products have become a critical public health concern.
-
October 24, 2011
Letter to Secretary Sebelius Regarding Disclosure of Industry Payment to Physicians and Teaching Hospitals
Under the Physician Payments Sunshine Provision, manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics or medical supplies, or their subsidiaries that sell these products in the United States, must report to Health and Human Services certain payments made to physicians and teaching hospitals.
-
October 24, 2011
Letter to Secretary Sebelius Regarding Disclosure of Industry Payment to Physicians and Teaching Hospitals
Under the Physician Payments Sunshine Provision, manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics or medical supplies, or their subsidiaries that sell these products in the United States, must report to Health and Human Services certain payments made to physicians and teaching hospitals.
-
June 24, 2011
Community Catalyst Statement on Supreme Court Decision Striking Down Vermont Law Protecting Prescription Records
-
May 11, 2011
Letter in Support of Drug Safety Enhancement Act
Eight national organizations in addition to Community Catalyst sent this letter to all members of the House of Representatives in support of the Drug Safety Enhancement Act of 2011, HR 1483.
- More in Prescription Drug Issues »
-
April 25, 2013
Premium Rate Impact under the Affordable Care Act
Community Catalyst’s fact sheet looks at some of the recent information on sudden premium increases due to coverage changes in the ACA. Between federal subsidies, Medicaid, CHIP, parental coverage, and catastrophic plans for young people, the scope of rate impact is significantly limited. Consumers will also be receiving more value for their dollars in their benefit packages.
-
November 19, 2012
Strategies for a Robust Partnership or Federally Facilitated Exchange: Same Priorities, Different Strategies
This brief highlights how advocacy strategies will shift if a state pursues a Partnership or a Federally Facilitated Exchange model. While consumer goals are consistent across types of Exchange, each Exchange model will have different state and federal roles that require a fresh look at advocacy strategy.
-
November 19, 2012
Health Insurance Exchange Models
This fact sheet highlights the key features of each Exchange type and some issues for state advocates to keep in mind.
-
November 19, 2012
Talking Points for Federally Facilitated Exchange and Partnership Exchange Decisions
These talking points will help you craft your message for responding to a variety of scenarios as states alter their position on Exchanges.
-
November 01, 2012
Moving Forward on Exchanges Despite Roadblocks
Although on the surface states appear to be deadlocked on advancing state-based Exchanges, consumer advocates across the country
have been actively involved in the process of building Exchanges in their states.
- More in Private Insurance Reform »