hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Aligns Medicare payments for certain high-cost surgeries in doctors' offices.
Reps. Bilirakis (R-FL), Ruiz (D-CA), Murphy (R-NC), and Davis (D-IL).
Introduced in the House, referred to committees.
This bill, sponsored by a bipartisan group of Representatives, aims to adjust how Medicare pays for specific surgical procedures involving expensive supplies when performed in a doctor's office, starting in 2027. It was introduced in the House of Representatives and sent to the Energy and Commerce, and Ways and Means committees for review.
Introduced Mar 9, 2026
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 9, 2026. It has been referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. For the bill to advance, these committees would need to consider it, potentially hold hearings, and then vote to send it to the full House for consideration.
If this bill becomes law, starting in 2027, your share of the cost (coinsurance) for specific high-cost surgeries performed in an office setting could be capped at the same amount as an inpatient hospital deductible, potentially reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, certain surgical procedures involving expensive supplies would have their Medicare payment aligned with what ambulatory surgical centers receive. Doctor's offices offering these procedures would need to meet federal health and safety standards to be recognized as an 'office-based facility' under Medicare.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue it ensures fair Medicare payments for complex procedures in office settings, potentially increasing patient access and choice.
Critics Say
Critics might suggest that expanding procedures in office settings could increase overall Medicare spending or raise questions about adequate oversight.
Proponents of the bill would likely emphasize that it promotes fairness for healthcare providers by ensuring appropriate Medicare reimbursement for specialized procedures often performed in an office. This could encourage more doctors to offer these services, potentially expanding patient access to care outside of hospital settings. However, some might raise concerns about the potential financial implications for Medicare, particularly as the bill includes provisions requiring increased payments to providers if a patient's coinsurance is capped.