Us Congress House Bill HR1289

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/11/24
• Refer: 6/11/24

Caption

Recognizing the contributions of academic medicine and observing Academic Medicine Week from June 10 through 14, 2024.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges the importance of federal support for programs that bolster the functions of academic medicine in research and education. It cites the economic contributions of medical schools and academic health systems, which collectively generated over $728 billion in GDP in 2019, underscoring their critical role in the labor market. The resolution also calls for continued support for initiatives aimed at addressing the projected physician shortage, which is anticipated to reach up to 86,000 physicians by 2036, primarily driven by an aging population.

Summary

HR1289 is a resolution recognizing the significant contributions of academic medicine and designating the week of June 10 through 14, 2024, as Academic Medicine Week. This resolution underscores the vital role that academic health systems, teaching hospitals, medical schools, resident physicians, faculty, and researchers play in the U.S. healthcare system. It highlights their commitment to educating health care professionals, conducting groundbreaking research, providing advanced patient care, and collaborating with communities to enhance health outcomes across the nation.

Contention

While HR1289 is framed as a recognition of academic medicine, it also points to systemic issues such as workforce diversity and the need for increased Medicare support in graduate medical education. Some stakeholders may argue that whilst the resolution is celebratory, it must lead to actionable support to address the disparities in healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Critics may also discuss the allocation of federal resources, underlining that without tangible commitments, such resolutions may fall short of addressing the pressing needs within the healthcare system.