Since 1998, Congress has banned federal regulators funding the development or adoption of a national unique patient identifier. Proponents of lifting the ban say the Senate budget proposal wont necessarily derail the effort. Some privacy advocates say a unique patient ID could improve the accuracy, interoperability and security of health information exchange and enhance patient safety. The House of Representatives in June approved a budget measure that included a provision to lift the ban (see National ID Debate Intensifies) Proponents say they remain hopeful the Senate will follow the Houses lead in approving an end to the ban.”]
Source: https://www.govinfosecurity.com/senate-budget-bill-would-keep-patient-id-ban-intact-a-13131