The House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act (BBBA, H.R. 5376) by a vote of 220-213, mostly along party lines, on Nov. 19. The passed bill reflects changes incorporated into a manager’s amendment approved by the House Committee on Rules on Nov. 4 [refer to Washington Highlights, Nov. 5].
Following passage, AAMC President and CEO David J. Skorton, MD, and Chief Public Policy Officer Karen Fisher, JD, issued a press statement applauding passage of the bill and highlighting investments in bolstering the health care workforce.
“We strongly support and appreciate the historic increase in funding for physician training, which would benefit patients across the country, especially those in areas hardest hit by doctor shortages. Physicians are an instrumental component of the nation’s health infrastructure,” they stated, in reference to the additional 4,000 new Medicare-supported residency positions included in the legislation.
Skorton and Fisher also shared support for the BBBA’s Pathway to Practice Training Program, supplemental funding for Teaching Health Center graduate medical education, and investments in public health infrastructure and interventions.
The legislation will now go to the Senate where it is likely to undergo further revisions and parliamentarian review.