Bill > S1971

This bill aims to expand Medicare coverage for medical nutrition therapy services for individuals with eating disorders, addressing a significant public health issue. The bill highlights that approximately 28.8 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime, with an estimated 1.6 to 2.1 million Medicare Part B beneficiaries affected, including a substantial number of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Currently, Medicare provides incomplete coverage for eating disorder treatment, particularly lacking medical nutrition therapy at outpatient, intensive outpatient, and residential treatment levels. The legislation would amend the Social Security Act to add eating disorders as a qualifying condition for medical nutrition therapy services, effective January 1, 2026. Specifically, it would provide coverage for 13 hours of services in the first year (including an initial assessment and follow-up interventions) and 4 hours in subsequent years, with services to be provided by registered dietitians or nutrition professionals and referred by physicians or mental health professionals. The bill emphasizes the serious nature of eating disorders, noting their high mortality rate, significant economic impact (estimated at $64.7 billion annually), and particular risks for elderly patients with pre-existing health conditions.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1971/all-info