CRITICAL Act

This legislation aims to enhance financial support for Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) located in noncontiguous states by amending the Social Security Act. It seeks to address the unique operational challenges faced by these facilities by increasing their Medicare reimbursement rates for various services. The bill specifically raises the reimbursement from 101 percent to 105 percent of reasonable costs for inpatient, outpatient, ambulance, and skilled nursing facility services. This increased payment applies to services furnished by eligible CAHs on or after January 1, 2026, intending to foster improved investment and care in these rural locations.