The fate of critical healthcare programs has gotten bound up in Congress' battle over immigration.

Modern Healthcare: Healthcare stakeholders are watching in horror as the fate of a number of critical healthcare programs has gotten bound up in Congress' intractable political battle over immigration.

The short-term continuing budget resolution approved by lawmakers Jan. 22 to keep the federal government open through Feb. 8 provided a big jolt of relief by extending funding for the Children's Health Insurance Program for six years, ensuring coverage for nearly 9 million kids.

Medical-device makers, insurers and employers were pleased by provisions delaying enforcement of three Affordable Care Act taxes affecting them, which the Congressional Budget Office said would cost the Treasury $31 billion.

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