Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act

Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act or the I CAN Act

This bill allows other health care providers besides physicians (e.g., nurses) to provide certain services under Medicare and Medicaid.

Among other changes, the bill (1) allows a nurse practitioner or physician assistant to fulfill documentation requirements for Medicare coverage of special shoes for diabetic individuals; (2) expedites the ability of physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists to supervise Medicare cardiac, intensive cardiac, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs; and (3) allows nurse practitioners to certify the need for inpatient hospital services under Medicare and Medicaid.

Bill 118 s 2418, also known as the Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to address the shortage of nurses in the United States and improve access to quality healthcare for all Americans.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to support nursing education and training programs. This program would provide funding to institutions that offer nursing degrees and certifications, with a focus on increasing the number of nurses entering the workforce.

Additionally, the bill aims to improve the working conditions and job satisfaction of nurses by implementing measures to reduce burnout and improve retention rates. This includes provisions for increased staffing levels, better workplace safety standards, and improved access to mental health resources for nurses. The bill also includes provisions to expand access to telehealth services, allowing nurses to provide care to patients remotely. This is especially important in rural and underserved areas where access to healthcare services may be limited. Overall, the Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act seeks to address the growing need for nurses in the United States and improve the quality of care available to all Americans. It is currently being debated in Congress and may undergo changes before being voted on.