Bill > S2225

This bill amends the Social Security Act to allow physical therapists to use locum tenens arrangements under Medicare, which are temporary coverage arrangements that enable healthcare providers to have another qualified professional temporarily fill in for them when they are absent. Currently, only certain medical professionals can use these arrangements, but this legislation would extend this flexibility to physical therapists. Specifically, the bill modifies existing law to permit physical therapists to utilize the same substitution provisions that physicians currently enjoy, meaning a qualified replacement physical therapist can provide services and bill Medicare under the original therapist's credentials during periods of absence. The amendment would take effect immediately after the bill's enactment, applying to physical therapy services furnished after the date the law is signed. By enabling this type of temporary coverage, the bill aims to help ensure continuous patient care and reduce potential interruptions in physical therapy services, particularly in situations where a primary therapist might be temporarily unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other circumstances.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2225/all-info