Rural Health Clinics Modernization: Better Access to Care and Staffing Flexibility.
This bill modernizes Medicare rules for Rural Health Clinics (RHCs), aiming to reduce administrative burdens and increase operational flexibility. The changes allow RHCs to more easily utilize and contract with physician assistants and nurse practitioners, potentially improving appointment availability. Crucially, the act also expands access to behavioral health services in underserved rural areas.
Key points
Increased flexibility for rural clinics to hire or contract with nurse practitioners and physician assistants, potentially improving appointment availability and staffing.
Simplified requirements for diagnostic services, allowing clinics to focus on providing care rather than maintaining complex in-house labs.
Improved access to mental health services in areas facing professional shortages by lifting certain restrictions on RHCs.
The definition of eligible rural areas is adjusted, potentially allowing RHCs to operate in slightly larger communities (under 50,000 residents).
Expired
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