To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include physical therapists and occupational therapists as health professionals for purposes of the annual wellness visit under the Medicare program, and for other purposes.

3/11/2025, 8:07 AM

Summary of Bill HR 1171

Bill 119 hr 1171, also known as the "Medicare Annual Wellness Visit Inclusion Act," aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include physical therapists and occupational therapists as health professionals eligible to participate in the annual wellness visit under the Medicare program. This bill seeks to expand the range of healthcare providers who can conduct these important wellness visits for Medicare beneficiaries.

The annual wellness visit is a crucial aspect of preventive care for Medicare beneficiaries, as it allows healthcare providers to assess the patient's overall health and develop a personalized prevention plan. By including physical therapists and occupational therapists as eligible providers for these visits, this bill aims to enhance the quality of care and increase access to preventive services for Medicare beneficiaries.

In addition to expanding the scope of healthcare providers eligible to conduct annual wellness visits, this bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to Medicare. While the specific details of these provisions are not outlined in the summary, it is clear that the overall goal of the bill is to improve the delivery of healthcare services to Medicare beneficiaries. Overall, the "Medicare Annual Wellness Visit Inclusion Act" is a bipartisan effort to enhance preventive care for Medicare beneficiaries by including physical therapists and occupational therapists as eligible providers for annual wellness visits. This bill reflects a commitment to improving the quality of care and increasing access to preventive services for Medicare beneficiaries.

Congressional Summary of HR 1171

Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly Act or the SAFE Act

This bill incorporates risk assessments and prevention services for falls into annual wellness visits and initial preventive physical exams under Medicare, as well as associated services provided by physical therapists and occupational therapists.

Current Status of Bill HR 1171

Bill HR 1171 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 10, 2025. Bill HR 1171 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 10, 2025. Bill HR 1171's most recent activity was Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. as of February 10, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1171

Total Number of Sponsors

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Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1171

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1171

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include physical therapists and occupational therapists as health professionals for purposes of the annual wellness visit under the Medicare program, and for other purposes.

Comments

Adaline Chu

461

9 months ago

I am saddened by the lack of recognition for physical therapists and occupational therapists in our healthcare system. This bill could potentially improve access to important services for many individuals, including myself. It is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of all Americans, and this bill is a step in the right direction.