H.R.3170 - Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3170, the "Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act," aims to amend Title 5 of the United States Code, specifically concerning workers' compensation for federal employees. The bill seeks to include services provided by physician assistants and nurse practitioners within the scope of covered medical services under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA). This inclusion would allow injured federal workers to receive care from these providers and have those services covered by workers' compensation.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to expand the pool of healthcare providers available to injured federal workers. This could potentially reduce wait times for treatment and improve access to care, particularly in areas where physicians are scarce. The bill also directs the Secretary of Labor to finalize rules to implement these changes within six months of enactment.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Access to Care: Expands the types of providers that federal employees can see for workers' compensation, potentially reducing wait times.
- Improved Healthcare Delivery: Allows for a broader range of medical professionals to contribute to the care of injured federal workers.
- Modernization of Regulations: Updates the regulations to reflect the evolving roles of physician assistants and nurse practitioners in healthcare.
- Potential Cost Savings: Utilizing physician assistants and nurse practitioners may be more cost-effective than relying solely on physicians in some cases.
- Enhanced Employee Well-being: By facilitating quicker and easier access to medical care, the bill can contribute to the overall well-being of injured federal workers.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Costs: While intended to be cost-effective, expanded coverage could lead to higher overall costs if not managed properly.
- Risk of Inconsistent Care: The quality and scope of practice for physician assistants and nurse practitioners can vary by state, potentially leading to inconsistencies in care.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing the new regulations and ensuring compliance could create an additional administrative burden for the Department of Labor and federal agencies.
- Possible Overutilization: Expanded access could lead to overutilization of services if not properly monitored.
- Scope of Practice Concerns: Ensuring that physician assistants and nurse practitioners operate within their defined scope of practice is crucial to avoid potential complications.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly with the implied power of Congress to provide for the general welfare (Preamble). It also relates to Congress's power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution the powers vested in the government (Article I, Section 8). 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).