On Health Policy Archives

National Center for Health Research (NCHR) Comment on FDA proposed ruling for ACNU Nonprescription Drug Products

November 25, 2022: We appreciate the FDA’s interest in establishing requirements for a nonprescription drug product with an additional condition for nonprescription use (ACNU). However, the FDA has not identified a mechanism to ensure appropriate use. Based on our experience with patients across the country, we believe it would be impossible to do so. For that reason, we do not support the proposed ruling.

NCHR’s Comment for the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Advisory Committee

November 7, 2022: NCHR urges CLIAC to amend its Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) of 1988 because CLIA needs to better reflect the advancements in science and technology that occurred over the past two decades. Current CLIA standards have numerous limitations and deficiencies that must be addressed. Two examples include the accuracy of lab-developed diagnostic tests and the electronic health records and software prompts used by physicians across the country.

NCHR Speaks out on the Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs’ decision to cover abortion and abortion counseling

October 11, 2022: Women veterans number about two million and make up the fastest-growing group of veterans in the U.S. today. We commend the Department of Veterans Affairs for its decision to expand healthcare coverage for women veterans to include abortion and abortion counseling. This action will help ensure that veterans and their beneficiaries have access to a full complement of reproductive healthcare regardless of where they live.

Comments of National Center for Health Research Regarding the USPSTF Draft Evidence Review: Screening for Depression and Suicide in Adults

October 17, 2022: We are concerned screening for asymptomatic depression and suicide has more risks than benefits. Further research is needed to find methods that accurately identify at-risk patients.

Patient, Consumer, and Public Health Coalition Letter to Senate HELP and Energy and Commerce Committee Regarding User Fee Reauthorization Legislation

September 22, 2022: It is critically important that House and Senate committees work together to consolidate differences between the Food and Drug Amendments Act (H.R. 7667), which passed the House of Representatives on June 8, and the Food and Drug Administration Safety and Landmark Advancements Act (S. 4348), which passed the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee on June 15.