Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity

Summary#

This bill would change the Social Security Act to add ultrasound to the list of diagnostic tests that are treated like X-ray tests. It directs the Medicare program to pay a separate fee for portable ultrasound transportation and set up services the same way it does for portable X-ray transportation and set up. The bill also directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to set supplier requirements for portable ultrasound services that are substantially similar to the rules that apply to portable X-ray suppliers (referencing subpart C of part 486 of 42 C.F.R.). The changes would apply to services furnished on or after January 1, 2027.

What it means for you#

• Medicare beneficiaries: The bill concerns how portable ultrasound services are billed and paid under Medicare; it does not change coverage of the diagnostic test itself in the bill text.
• Suppliers and providers: Suppliers who transport and set up portable ultrasound equipment could receive a separate payment for those transportation and setup services and would need to meet supplier requirements similar to those for portable X-ray suppliers.
• Timing and process: The bill was introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Ways and Means. It would take effect for services on or after January 1, 2027 if enacted.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on budget effects or estimated costs is included in the bill text or its available metadata.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information on proponents' stated views, findings, or formal justifications is included in the bill text or its available metadata.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information on opponents' stated views or formal criticisms is included in the bill text or its available metadata.