Expanding Medicare/Medicaid Coverage for Freestanding Emergency Centers
This act aims to permanently cover services provided by freestanding emergency centers under Medicare and Medicaid programs. This will give citizens broader access to 24/7 emergency care, which proved effective and cost-efficient during the pandemic, without always needing to go to hospital emergency rooms. The changes are set to take effect on May 11, 2023.
Key points
Freestanding Emergency Centers (FECs) will be permanently covered by Medicare and Medicaid, increasing access to urgent medical care.
These centers must meet strict standards, operate 24/7 with an onsite physician, and provide the same level of care as hospital emergency departments.
Expanding coverage to FECs is expected to save money for the Medicare program and its beneficiaries while offering high-quality services.
New payment rules for FEC services will be similar to those for hospital outpatient departments.
Expired
Citizen Poll