Medical Care Equity Act
12/29/2022, 12:33 PMSummary of Bill HR 8984
Bill 117 hr 8984, also known as the Medical Care Equity Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to address disparities in access to medical care for individuals living in rural and underserved areas.The Medical Care Equity Act aims to improve access to healthcare services by increasing funding for rural health clinics and expanding telehealth services. This bill also seeks to address workforce shortages in rural areas by providing incentives for healthcare professionals to practice in these underserved communities.
Additionally, the Medical Care Equity Act includes provisions to improve healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, such as funding for the construction and renovation of healthcare facilities. This bill also aims to increase access to mental health services in rural communities by expanding telehealth options for mental health care. Overall, the Medical Care Equity Act is focused on addressing the healthcare disparities that exist in rural and underserved areas. By increasing funding for healthcare services, expanding telehealth options, and incentivizing healthcare professionals to practice in these communities, this bill aims to improve access to quality medical care for all individuals, regardless of where they live.
Congressional Summary of HR 8984
Medical Care Equity Act
This bill allows a tax deduction for the unreimbursed Medicare-based value of qualified charity care (i.e., physicians' services furnished without expectation of reimbursement, including medical screenings and treatment for emergency medical conditions and labor-related treatments).
The bill also specifies that a physician is not liable under federal or state law for harm caused by an act or omission of the physician, or attending medical personnel supporting the physician, if the act or omission (1) occurs in the course of furnishing charity care, and (2) was not grossly negligent. The bill preempts laws of a state or locality that are inconsistent with this exemption, unless the laws provide greater protection from liability for a defendant.
