H.R.2477 - Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2477, the Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act of 2025, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include coverage for portable ultrasound transportation and setup services under Medicare. This bill seeks to ensure that these services are reimbursed in a manner similar to portable X-ray services. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Ways and Means.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would expand Medicare coverage to include portable ultrasound services, potentially increasing access to diagnostic imaging for beneficiaries, especially in rural or underserved areas. It would also create a new payment structure for these services, mirroring the existing system for portable X-ray services. This change would take effect for services furnished on or after January 1, 2027.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to diagnostic ultrasound services, particularly for patients in rural or remote areas.
- Equitable reimbursement for portable ultrasound services, aligning with existing policies for X-ray services.
- Potential for earlier and more accurate diagnoses due to improved access to imaging technology.
- Reduced burden on patients who may have difficulty traveling to fixed imaging centers.
- Could incentivize innovation in portable ultrasound technology and service delivery.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased Medicare costs due to expanded coverage.
- Risk of fraudulent billing or overutilization of portable ultrasound services.
- Administrative burden on healthcare providers to comply with new billing and documentation requirements.
- Possible disparities in access to portable ultrasound services based on geographic location or socioeconomic status.
- The effective date is over a year away, delaying any potential benefits.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve healthcare access for Medicare beneficiaries. Specifically, it falls under Congress's power to legislate on matters related to healthcare and social security, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to "lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States". The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).