H.R. 4859: Federal Family Health Information Technology Act of 2006


Talk about an 800 pound gorilla!SV

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Third District Congressman Jon Porter formally introduced health information technology (HIT) legislation that will improve health care safety, quality and efficiency for millions of Americans. Porter’s bill, the “Federal Family Health Information Technology Act of 2006,” will provide every participant of the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) with an electronic health care record, and effectively serve as the largest HIT demonstration project in the country.
Official Title: To amend chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code, to provide for the implementation of a system of electronic health records under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.

Porter’s bill requires insurance carriers within FEHBP to create carrier-based electronic health records for all participants. The bill also requires the carriers to create a personal health record, where participants can use a web-based service to input information such as dietary requirements, allergies, etc. Finally, the bill provides incentives for local health care providers to implement HIT in their own offices.

Representative Wm. Lacy Clay (D-MO) has joined Porter’s efforts as original co-sponsor of the bill, which has been referred to the Government Reform Committee.

Sept 13, 2006: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .