Bill > HR4204

This bill aims to expand patient choice in Medicare by allowing beneficiaries to more freely select their healthcare providers, specifically physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and chiropractors. The bill amends Section 1802(b) of the Social Security Act to modify existing language throughout the statute, replacing references to "physician or practitioner" with broader terminology that now includes therapists and qualified audiologists. The bill defines "therapist" as including qualified physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists, and provides a specific definition for "qualified audiologist". By making these changes, the legislation intends to give Medicare beneficiaries greater flexibility in choosing their rehabilitation and therapy providers, potentially improving access to specialized care and allowing patients more control over their medical treatment. The modifications appear to be technical in nature, updating legal language to ensure that therapists and audiologists are explicitly recognized alongside physicians and practitioners in Medicare's patient choice provisions.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4204/all-info