Bill > HR1317

This bill aims to expand the roles and capabilities of various types of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) within Medicare and Medicaid programs, removing existing barriers to their practice. The legislation covers multiple areas of healthcare, including cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, home health services, hospice care, skilled nursing facilities, and medical nutrition therapy. Specifically, the bill allows nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and certified nurse-midwives to perform a wider range of medical services, such as ordering and certifying treatments, providing pre-anesthesia evaluations, and establishing care plans. It also updates billing and reimbursement rules to recognize these nurses' expanded capabilities, removes unnecessary physician supervision requirements, and ensures that APRNs can be reimbursed at rates comparable to physicians for similar services. The bill applies to services provided on or after 90 days following its enactment and requires the Department of Health and Human Services to implement these changes through interim rules or guidance. By broadening the scope of practice for these healthcare professionals, the legislation aims to improve access to medical care, particularly in areas with healthcare provider shortages.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1317/all-info