Bill > S1996

This bill aims to improve Medicare coverage for audiology services by making several key changes to the Social Security Act. Starting January 1, 2027, the bill will allow qualified audiologists to provide hearing and balance assessment services, and later treatment services, without requiring a physician's referral or supervision. Medicare will cover these audiology services and pay 80% of the service cost based on the lesser of the actual charge or the established fee schedule. The bill also adds qualified audiologists to the list of practitioners who can provide services in Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Importantly, the legislation does not expand the overall scope of audiology services beyond what is currently available, but instead focuses on improving access and reimbursement for existing services. By allowing audiologists more autonomy in providing care and ensuring Medicare coverage, the bill seeks to make hearing and balance-related healthcare more accessible and affordable for Medicare beneficiaries.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1996/all-info