HR 5256 United States House · 118th Congress

Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act of 2023

This bill changes Medicare payment rules for anesthesiologist services in specific rural hospitals. It requires Medicare to pay for anesthesiologist services in qualifying rural hospitals using the same "reasonable cost, pass-through" reimbursement method currently used for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), rather than the standard physician payment rate. The bill directly affects rural hospitals and anesthesiologists working in those facilities, ensuring they receive comparable reimbursement to CRNAs under existing rules. The change applies to services provided during cost reporting periods starting after the bill's enactment date. This is a technical adjustment to payment methodology, not a new coverage benefit.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Aug 2023
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced Aug 22, 2023 Last action Dec 17, 2024