President Bush Signs Key Legislation

 Washington, D.C., June 30, 2008 – Dr. Marina L. Weiss, senior vice president of public policy and government affairs for the March of Dimes, issued the following statement:

“The March of Dimes Foundation applauds the inclusion of critical domestic priorities in the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations bill, which was signed today by President Bush.

“Most importantly, the bill includes a one year moratorium on the rule promulgated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services protecting federal reimbursement for Targeted Case Management (TCM) services.  TCM, which is used by at least 45 states in some capacity, is critical for high-risk pregnant women and infants and children with complex medical needs.  Case managers play an invaluable role from coordinating among multiple providers to securing services such as various therapies, treatments, and even medical equipment.  They are able to navigate complex and daunting systems on behalf of families struggling with very sick babies or high-risk pregnancies.

“In addition, the bill includes $150 million for the National Institutes of Health.  If as a nation we are ever going to decrease the rate of infant mortality, we need a sustained investment in public health programs and research particularly those focused on the incidence of preterm birth. This inclusion for NIH funding is therefore critically important."   

The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose volunteers and staff work to improve the health of infants and children by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.