Bill > S249

This bill aims to improve access to pediatric medical technologies by establishing a process for manufacturers to request national relative value units (RVUs) for qualifying pediatric medical devices under Medicare's physician fee schedule. Specifically, the bill allows manufacturers to submit a written request to the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish RVUs for their pediatric medical devices, with requests submitted by May 1st being considered in that year's rulemaking process and requests after May 1st being considered in the following year. A qualifying pediatric technology must be covered by Medicare, approved by the FDA, have a temporary technology code, and either be predominantly used in pediatric procedures or specifically designed for pediatric populations. The bill requires manufacturers to provide supporting documentation like pricing information, claims data, and time and motion studies to help establish appropriate payment rates. Importantly, the bill does not mandate Medicare coverage of these technologies and maintains existing coverage determination processes. The goal is to create a more streamlined pathway for introducing and valuing innovative medical technologies designed specifically for children, potentially making such technologies more accessible and affordable for pediatric patients.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/249/all-info