What is the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act?

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) refers to several comprehensive federal budget laws passed over different years that made significant changes to Medicare, Medicaid, and other healthcare programs. OBRA provisions have addressed nursing home standards, physician payment reform, prescription drug pricing, and many other aspects of healthcare financing and delivery.

Why is OBRA important?

• Program reform: Implemented major changes to government healthcare programs.
• Cost containment: Introduced measures to control healthcare spending.
• Access expansion: Extended coverage to additional populations and services.

Key healthcare provisions from various OBRA legislation

• Nursing home reform requirements (OBRA '87).
• Medicaid coverage expansions for children and pregnant women.
• Physician payment system reforms for Medicare.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you understand how OBRA provisions affect your eligibility for benefits under Medicare, Medicaid, and other government programs. They can assist with navigating the expanded coverage options created through various OBRA laws, ensure you receive appropriate preventive services added through these acts, and help address quality concerns in facilities subject to OBRA standards.