Bill 119 hr 44, also known as the Rural Emergency Hospital Act, aims to amend title III of the Public Health Service Act to include rural emergency hospitals in the definition of a covered entity for the 340B drug discount program. The 340B program allows certain healthcare facilities, known as covered entities, to purchase prescription drugs at discounted prices in order to provide affordable medications to underserved populations.
By including rural emergency hospitals in the definition of covered entities, this bill seeks to expand access to discounted drugs for patients in rural areas who may otherwise struggle to afford necessary medications. This change would help these hospitals better serve their communities by reducing the financial burden on patients and improving overall healthcare outcomes.
Overall, Bill 119 hr 44 aims to address the unique challenges faced by rural emergency hospitals and ensure that they have access to the resources they need to provide quality care to their patients. This legislation has the potential to make a significant impact on healthcare in rural America and improve the overall well-being of underserved populations.