H.R.2902 - Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform Act of 2025; SOAR Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2902, the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform Act of 2025 (SOAR Act of 2025), aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve the payment method for oxygen and oxygen-related equipment, supplies, and services under Medicare. The bill seeks to increase beneficiary access to these essential resources and enhance program integrity. It addresses issues such as removing oxygen equipment from competitive acquisition programs and ensuring adequate reimbursement for suppliers.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is improved access to supplemental oxygen therapy for Medicare beneficiaries. It also aims to reduce fraud and abuse within the system. The bill also seeks to ensure fair reimbursement for respiratory therapists and oxygen suppliers.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to supplemental oxygen for Medicare beneficiaries, particularly those in rural and non-contiguous areas.
- Enhanced payment structures for liquid oxygen, ensuring adequate reimbursement for suppliers and promoting continued service.
- Increased protections for beneficiaries, including the right to choose suppliers and receive clear communication about their treatment and financial responsibilities.
- Strengthened program integrity through the use of electronic templates to document medical necessity and reduce fraud.
- Reimbursement for respiratory therapist services, recognizing their role in patient care.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to the Medicare system due to higher reimbursement rates, which could impact overall healthcare spending.
- The complexity of the new payment structures may create administrative burdens for suppliers and confusion for beneficiaries.
- The implementation of electronic templates could pose challenges for some practitioners, particularly those in smaller practices or rural areas with limited resources.
- The one-year delay in the effective date of certain provisions may prolong existing issues with access and reimbursement.
- The specific impact of the non-budget neutral add-on payments for respiratory therapist services and high-flow patients is uncertain and may require further adjustments.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of citizens through programs like Medicare. The bill aims to improve healthcare access for seniors, aligning with this constitutional principle. The specific regulations and requirements outlined in the bill must also adhere to due process and equal protection principles, ensuring fair treatment of beneficiaries and suppliers.
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).