Bill > S2426

This bill aims to expand Medicare Part B coverage to include certain pharmacist services, specifically focusing on addressing public health needs during emergencies like COVID-19. Under the proposed legislation, pharmacists would be able to provide services such as evaluation, testing, and treatment for conditions like COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and streptococcal pharyngitis, as long as they are operating under the supervision or collaboration guidelines established by their state law. The bill stipulates that Medicare will reimburse pharmacists at 80% of the lesser of the actual service charge or 85% of the standard payment rate (rising to 100% for services addressing specific public health emergencies). Additionally, the bill includes provisions to prevent balance billing for pharmacist services, ensuring patients are protected from unexpected additional charges. These changes would take effect on January 1, 2026, giving healthcare systems time to prepare for the new coverage and collaboration guidelines. The overall goal is to increase healthcare accessibility by allowing pharmacists to play a more direct role in patient care, particularly during public health crises.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2426/all-info