H.R.2343 - John W. Walsh Alpha-1 Home Infusion Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2343, the John W. Walsh Alpha-1 Home Infusion Act of 2025, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide Medicare coverage for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Disorder treatment under Part B. This includes coverage for augmentation therapy furnished by qualified home infusion therapy suppliers. The bill also addresses payment for intravenous administration kits and nursing services related to this treatment.
Expected Effects
The bill will expand Medicare coverage to include Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Disorder treatment, specifically augmentation therapy delivered at home. This will likely increase access to necessary treatment for individuals with this condition who are enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. The changes will become effective January 1, 2027, if the bill is enacted.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Disorder treatment for Medicare beneficiaries.
- Improved quality of life for individuals with the condition through home-based augmentation therapy.
- Reduced financial burden on patients by covering treatment costs under Medicare Part B.
- Support for qualified home infusion therapy suppliers through direct payment mechanisms.
- Potential for earlier intervention and management of the disorder, leading to better health outcomes.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Medicare spending, potentially impacting overall healthcare costs.
- Complexity in implementing and administering the new coverage provisions.
- Potential for fraud or abuse related to home infusion therapy services.
- Limited impact as it only affects individuals with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Disorder enrolled in traditional Medicare (Parts A and B).
- Delayed effective date (January 1, 2027) means beneficiaries will not immediately receive the benefits.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to provide healthcare benefits to a specific group of individuals. 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 umbrella of providing for the general welfare through healthcare provisions.
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).