With President Donald Trump’s recent inauguration for a second term, we’ve seen swift actions that could significantly alter the healthcare framework in America. These policy changes, spearheaded by the president’s executive orders, highlight a new direction that could influence everything from managing drug costs to participating in global health organizations.
Medical billers must stay up-t0-date on these changes to ensure they remain informed and compliant. Here’s a closer look at recent developments, including the notable recent appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
ACA Policy Enrollment Changes
One of the new administration’s first moves was to shorten the enrollment periods for the Affordable Care Act, reversing expansions made under the Biden administration. This change is pivotal as it directly impacts the number of people who can sign up for healthcare during designated periods, potentially decreasing the number of insured Americans.
Medication Costs and Management
President Trump has reversed previous policies aimed at reducing medication costs for Medicare and Medicaid recipients. These changes eliminate caps on drug pricing and discontinue certain strategies designed to promote affordability. The administration argues that such reversals are intended to enhance negotiation capabilities with pharmaceutical companies and could potentially lead to better drug pricing agreements in the future. Medical biller will need to sty
U.S. Participation in the WHO
President Trump has reignited his efforts to remove the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This move underscores his administration’s continued skepticism of the WHO’s effectiveness, particularly its response to international health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Those in favor of leaving the WHO cite ongoing concerns about the organization’s operational transparency and its perceived influence from other member states. Lawmakers who are skeptical of the U.S. exiting the WHO, say this development could have significant implications for global health diplomacy and the future of U.S. involvement in international health initiatives.
Changes in Gender Health Policies and More
The government has recently updated its health policies regarding gender, leading to significant changes in the rights and protections for people based on their gender identity. These changes affect how gender is recognized in healthcare settings and influence the access to and delivery of medical services for transgender and non-binary people. By updating these policies, the administration is altering the way gender is handled legally and medically, impacting everything from patient records to protections against discrimination in healthcare. As these rules evolve, they prompt a wide range of reactions from those within the healthcare industry as they adjust to this new regulatory landscape.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Appointment
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was recently confirmed as the head of the Department of Health and Human Services, sparking intense discussion and debate. Known for his critical views on vaccines and alternative health practices, Kennedy’s role will be crucial in shaping the nation’s health policies. His confirmation by a narrow margin in the Senate underscores the divisive nature of his appointment.
Healthcare Access and Immigration
Recent changes in immigration enforcement, notably the removal of protections that limited immigration actions in healthcare facilities, have sparked a nuanced debate about their implications on healthcare access. Proponents argue that these changes are necessary for consistent enforcement of immigration laws and to potentially reduce government expenditures related to healthcare services for undocumented individuals. The supporters of President Trump’s stance believe a policy change could lead to better resource allocation within the healthcare system. On the other hand, critics of these changes are concerned that individuals without legal residency may not seek necessary medical care. They fear that if fewer immigrants access health care, the result will be public health risks, such as untreated diseases spreading more freely within communities.
Public Health Strategy Shifts
Lastly, the administration has lifted several of Biden’s COVID-19 policies, redirecting the focus away from pandemic preparedness and toward other health priorities. Talks about public health strategies are ongoing about how the U.S. will handle future health emergencies.
Adapting to Policy Shifts: The Importance of Staying Informed and Proactive
As these new policies unfold, those within the healthcare sector—from medical billers to providers to patients—must understand and navigate these changes carefully. Staying informed and engaged with these policy shifts is crucial as we continue to advocate for both providers and patient
Understanding and discussing the impacts of these policy shifts is more important than ever. At 4D Global, we’re committed to keeping you informed and prepared for healthcare policy changes in 2025. Join us as we explore what these changes mean for our healthcare system and how we can collectively navigate this new era. Subscribe to our Leaders in Medical Billing newsletter here: Subscribe!