Bill > S1168

This bill aims to expand Medicare coverage for portable ultrasound services by amending the Social Security Act to include portable ultrasound transportation and set-up services, similar to existing provisions for portable X-ray services. Specifically, the bill modifies the definition of diagnostic tests to explicitly include ultrasound tests and requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a separate payment mechanism for portable ultrasound transportation and set-up services. The new payment requirements will be substantially similar to those currently in place for portable X-ray services, ensuring that healthcare providers who transport and set up portable ultrasound equipment can be reimbursed by Medicare in a manner comparable to X-ray service providers. These changes will take effect on January 1, 2027, giving healthcare systems and providers time to adjust to the new reimbursement framework. The goal of the bill is to improve access to portable ultrasound services for Medicare beneficiaries by creating a clear and equitable payment structure for such medical diagnostic services.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1168/all-info