H.R.2191 - Physician Led and Rural Access to Quality Care Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2191, the Physician Led and Rural Access to Quality Care Act, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act, specifically targeting physician self-referral exemptions related to physician-owned hospitals. The bill introduces revisions to existing regulations, particularly concerning hospitals located in rural areas. It seeks to allow for the expansion of existing physician-owned hospitals by modifying certain restrictions.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would likely result in changes to the landscape of healthcare access in rural areas. Specifically, it would ease restrictions on physician-owned hospitals in rural locations. This could lead to increased investment in and expansion of these facilities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to healthcare services in rural areas due to the expansion of physician-owned hospitals.
- Potential for improved quality of care in rural hospitals as a result of physician leadership and investment.
- Economic benefits for rural communities through job creation and increased local investment in healthcare facilities.
- Greater physician involvement in hospital management and decision-making, potentially leading to more efficient and patient-centered care.
- Reduced travel distances for patients in rural areas seeking specialized medical treatment.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased healthcare costs due to physician self-referral, as physicians may be incentivized to refer patients to their own facilities.
- Risk of overutilization of services in physician-owned hospitals, leading to unnecessary medical procedures and higher healthcare expenditures.
- Possible conflicts of interest for physicians who own hospitals, potentially compromising patient care decisions.
- Concerns about the quality of care in physician-owned hospitals compared to larger, more established healthcare systems.
- Potential for unfair competition with existing hospitals and healthcare providers in rural areas.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily related to the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including healthcare services and financing. The bill also indirectly relates to the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8), as it aims to improve healthcare access and quality, thereby promoting the general welfare of the population. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).