Rural ER Access Act

Bill 119 HR 772, also known as the "Medicare Access to Care Act," aims to amend regulations within the Medicare program that currently require off-campus facilities or organizations to be located within a 35-mile radius of a hospital or critical access hospital. The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to revise these regulations, effectively removing this geographical restriction.

The purpose of this bill is to increase access to care for Medicare beneficiaries by allowing off-campus facilities to operate without being limited by proximity to a hospital. This change would enable more individuals to receive necessary medical services and treatments, particularly in rural or underserved areas where hospitals may be scarce.

By eliminating the 35-mile radius requirement, the bill seeks to improve healthcare outcomes and reduce barriers to care for Medicare beneficiaries. This legislation has the potential to positively impact the healthcare system by expanding access to services and promoting better health outcomes for individuals across the country. Overall, Bill 119 HR 772 represents a significant step towards improving healthcare access and quality for Medicare beneficiaries by removing unnecessary restrictions on off-campus facilities.