H.R.3778 - Preserving Emergency Access in Key Sites Act; PEAKS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3778, the Preserving Emergency Access in Key Sites Act (PEAKS Act), aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to update the fee schedule for ambulance services provided by critical access hospitals (CAHs). The bill specifically addresses the distance requirements for CAHs in mountainous terrain or areas with only secondary roads available. It seeks to ensure that hospitals meeting a 15-mile distance requirement in such areas are appropriately designated and reimbursed for ambulance services.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in increased reimbursement for ambulance services provided by CAHs in mountainous or rural areas. This could help sustain these hospitals, ensuring continued access to emergency medical services in underserved regions. The bill also directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations to carry out the provisions related to CAH designation.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continued access to emergency ambulance services in rural and mountainous areas.
- Provides financial relief to critical access hospitals struggling with ambulance service costs.
- Clarifies the distance requirements for CAH designation in specific geographic areas.
- May improve healthcare outcomes in underserved communities by maintaining local hospital viability.
- The bill promotes the general welfare by ensuring access to healthcare in rural areas.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to the Medicare program due to increased reimbursement rates.
- The definition of "mountainous terrain" or "secondary roads" could be subject to interpretation, leading to disputes.
- The bill may not address other challenges faced by CAHs, such as staffing shortages or limited resources.
- The one-year deadline for the Secretary to promulgate regulations may be challenging to meet.
- The bill could create an unfair advantage for hospitals meeting the 15-mile requirement compared to those that do not.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to improve healthcare access in rural areas. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to Medicare under the Social Security Act, which falls under its enumerated powers. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 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.
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).