H.R.1517 - Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1517, the "Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act of 2025," aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. The amendment would add physical therapists to the list of healthcare providers eligible to utilize locum tenens arrangements under Medicare. This allows temporary physical therapists to fill in for regular therapists, ensuring continuous patient care.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would allow physical therapists to use locum tenens arrangements under Medicare, similar to physicians. This would ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have continued access to physical therapy services even when their regular therapist is temporarily unavailable. The change would apply to services furnished after the enactment date.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continuity of care for Medicare beneficiaries receiving physical therapy.
- Provides flexibility for physical therapists who need temporary leave.
- Potentially reduces delays in treatment due to therapist absences.
- May improve access to physical therapy services in rural or underserved areas.
- Could lead to better patient outcomes by preventing interruptions in therapy.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to the Medicare system if locum tenens arrangements are used excessively.
- Possible administrative burden for physical therapy practices to manage locum tenens arrangements.
- Risk of inconsistent quality of care if locum tenens therapists are not properly vetted.
- May not address the underlying issues causing therapist shortages or absences.
- Limited impact on overall healthcare access beyond physical therapy services.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause of Article I, Section 8, which allows Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By ensuring continued access to physical therapy services for Medicare beneficiaries, the bill can be argued to promote their health and well-being. 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).