H.R.2757 - Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2757, the Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act of 2025, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve Medicare coverage of audiology services. The bill expands the definition of audiology services and allows qualified audiologists to furnish these services without requiring a physician's referral or supervision. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
This bill seeks to increase access to audiology services for Medicare beneficiaries. It also defines the payment structure for these services, setting the amount paid at 80 percent of the lesser of the actual charge or the fee schedule amount.
Furthermore, the bill includes qualified audiologists as practitioners in Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). It also clarifies that the amendments do not expand the scope of audiology services beyond what is payable as of December 31, 2026.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be to broaden access to audiology services for Medicare recipients. It empowers audiologists to provide a wider range of services directly to patients.
This could lead to earlier detection and treatment of hearing and balance issues. It may also reduce the burden on primary care physicians by allowing audiologists to handle these cases independently.
Ultimately, the bill aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments by streamlining access to specialized care.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Access to Care: Medicare beneficiaries will have easier access to audiology services without needing a physician's referral.
- Expanded Service Coverage: The bill broadens the scope of audiology services covered under Medicare.
- Direct Access to Specialists: Patients can directly consult with audiologists for hearing and balance issues.
- Inclusion in RHCs and FQHCs: Qualified audiologists will be recognized as practitioners in rural health clinics and federally qualified health centers, improving access in underserved areas.
- Potential for Early Detection: Easier access may lead to earlier detection and treatment of hearing problems.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Costs: Expanding coverage could lead to higher Medicare expenditures, although the bill attempts to control costs through payment limitations.
- Risk of Unnecessary Services: Without a physician's oversight, there's a potential for patients to seek unnecessary audiology services.
- Limited Scope of Practice: The bill explicitly states that it does not expand the scope of services beyond what is currently payable, potentially limiting innovation.
- Delayed Implementation: The changes do not take effect until January 1, 2027, delaying immediate benefits.
- Possible Confusion: Patients may be confused about the extent of services covered and the need for physician involvement in certain cases.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve healthcare access for a specific population (Medicare beneficiaries). The expansion of Medicare benefits falls under Congress's power to provide for the general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble.
Furthermore, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under the provision for the general welfare.
There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional amendments or limitations on federal power. The bill operates within the established framework of the Social Security Act and Medicare program.
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).