Ways and Means Committee, Energy and Commerce Committee
Introduced
In Committee
On Floor
Passed Chamber
Enacted
This bill seeks to expand eligibility for home health services under the Medicare program by amending Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. It proposes that a patient's need for occupational therapy alone can qualify them for these services, removing the current requirement for a concurrent need for physical or speech therapy. This change aims to broaden access to essential home health care for individuals whose primary therapeutic need is occupational therapy. Specifically, the legislation modifies sections 1814(a)(2)(C) and 1835(a)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act, which govern eligibility under Medicare Part A and Part B . By recognizing occupational therapy as an independent basis for eligibility, the bill ensures more beneficiaries can access necessary care. These amendments are slated to take effect for all home health services provided on or after January 1, 2026 .
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Health
Medicare Home Health Accessibility Act
USA119th CongressHR-2013| House
| Updated: 3/10/2025
This bill seeks to expand eligibility for home health services under the Medicare program by amending Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. It proposes that a patient's need for occupational therapy alone can qualify them for these services, removing the current requirement for a concurrent need for physical or speech therapy. This change aims to broaden access to essential home health care for individuals whose primary therapeutic need is occupational therapy. Specifically, the legislation modifies sections 1814(a)(2)(C) and 1835(a)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act, which govern eligibility under Medicare Part A and Part B . By recognizing occupational therapy as an independent basis for eligibility, the bill ensures more beneficiaries can access necessary care. These amendments are slated to take effect for all home health services provided on or after January 1, 2026 .
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.