FR 2024-28740

The document from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is a call for public comments on the Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP) funding formula. This funding formula is crucial as it distributes federal resources to bolster health care readiness for emergencies. The ASPR is keen on gathering input about the risk component of this formula, which takes into account various factors including the likelihood of threats, community vulnerability, and the potential consequences of these threats.

General Summary

In brief, the document outlines a request for information from the public regarding the risk component of the HPP funding formula. ASPR distributes these funds using a formula mandated by law which includes base amounts, population-adjusted funding, and adjustments for significant unmet needs and risk analysis. The latter accounts for potential health care surges caused by various risks and hazards. To improve this component, ASPR is inviting feedback, specifically on datasets currently used or proposed for reassessment.

Significant Issues and Concerns

The document, despite its clear call for input, presents several ambiguities and lacks certain details:

• The determination of the "base amount" for funding is not explained, creating uncertainty about the fundamental distribution logic.
• There is no clarity on how population adjustments are calculated. This could result in confusion or an unequal allocation among jurisdictions.
• The criteria for including or excluding datasets, crucial for calculating risks, are not thoroughly specified. This might hinder respondents from providing specific or useful feedback.
• Without examples of existing datasets considered insufficient, it might be challenging for stakeholders to suggest improvements effectively.
• The process and criteria for future datasets to be integrated into the formula are not defined, leaving potential contributors without guidance.
• Furthermore, the document does not outline how the ASPR will use the feedback and whether there will be subsequent opportunities for public engagement.

Public Impact

Broadly, the impact on the public can be significant. The formula directly influences how well-prepared local health systems may be in emergencies. If the risk components are not accurately calibrated, some areas may inadvertently receive inadequate resources, potentially jeopardizing emergency response capabilities. By opening this dialogue, ASPR aims to refine its approach to better serve communities, but the lack of details on calculation methods and criteria might result in uneven or insufficient public confidence in the process.

Impact on Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders, especially state and local health departments, could be directly affected by the announced changes in funding allocation. If risk assessments do not accurately reflect local realities—due to inadequate or misaligned datasets—these bodies might find themselves insufficiently funded or overwhelmed in crises.

Positively, stakeholders have an opportunity to influence the funding formula by contributing their insights and experiences. This can potentially lead to more equitable and effective distribution of resources. However, the lack of clarity about how feedback will influence the process can discourage some stakeholders from participating.

In conclusion, while the ASPR's initiative to solicit public feedback is commendable, improving transparency in how responses will be incorporated and clarifying technical details about the funding process would enhance the efficacy and trust in the program.