Physical Therapist Workforce and Patient Access Act of 2025
Summary
The Physical Therapist Workforce and Patient Access Act of 2025 aims to improve access to physical therapy services, particularly in underserved areas. It amends the Public Health Service Act and the Social Security Act to include physical therapists in the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment program and expand Medicare coverage for physical therapy services in rural health clinics and federally qualified health centers. The bill also allocates additional funding for these initiatives.
Expected Effects
This act will increase the availability of physical therapy services in underserved areas by incentivizing physical therapists to practice in those locations through loan repayment programs. It will also broaden access to these services for Medicare beneficiaries in rural areas. The changes will take effect on or after January 1, 2027.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to physical therapy services in underserved areas.
- Financial assistance for physical therapists through loan repayment programs.
- Expanded Medicare coverage for physical therapy in rural health clinics.
- Potential for improved patient outcomes and reduced reliance on pain medication.
- Support for physical rehabilitation needs of individuals with chronic conditions, including those resulting from COVID-19.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending due to loan repayment programs and expanded Medicare coverage.
- Potential for increased demand on the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment program.
- Delayed implementation, with expanded Medicare coverage not effective until 2027.
- Possible administrative challenges in implementing the new provisions.
- The bill does not address potential shortages of physical therapists in the long term.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting access to healthcare. Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, which includes funding healthcare programs and incentivizing healthcare professionals to serve in underserved areas. The expansion of Medicare also falls under Congress's authority to regulate healthcare under the Social Security Act.
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).