A new report from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicates that Paxlovid can reduce risk of long COVID-19; new data show Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines substantially increase immune responses compared with monovalent vaccines.

The Senate fails to repeal the ACA but will keep trying. Committees discuss HHS priorities and health care bills, including a bundle of hospital-related bills.

Congress plans for a final vote on a FY 2016 budget resolution, and House and Senate committees will review medical innovation initiatives.

Federally chartered, 11-member Special Medical Advisory Group will advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on care for 9 million veterans

Also on tap is a Senate vote on homeland security funding that would bar legal status for undocumented immigrants and President Obama's 2016 budget

Congress meets this week to pass Keystone Pipeline legislation and Homeland Security funding, considers immigration and veterans' mental health.

Congress meets this week to extend federal funding through Dec. 11. Other legislative considerations include medical device tax, VA authorities, and the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program. Committees will address CHIP, Ebola, and the ACA.