The Executive Order 13997, titled "Improving and Expanding Access to Care and Treatments for COVID-19," aims to enhance healthcare systems and accelerate the development of COVID-19 therapies. It directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services and other partners to support research, especially in underserved areas, to study the long-term impacts of COVID-19. The order also seeks to increase the capacity of healthcare facilities and improve access to affordable healthcare by addressing barriers and promoting insurance coverage for treatments. Additionally, it underscores the need for equitable distribution of COVID-19 treatments while ensuring the order does not conflict with existing laws or create enforceable rights.
Simple Explanation
The executive order is like a plan to help doctors and hospitals get better at taking care of people with COVID-19, especially in places that don't have enough help. It also wants to make sure that everyone gets the medicine they need, but doesn't say exactly how much it will cost or how to make sure it's fair for everyone.