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Easier Medicare Access to Hearing and Balance Services Without Doctor Referral.

This law improves access to audiology services for Medicare beneficiaries by eliminating the requirement for a physician referral for hearing and balance diagnosis and treatment. Starting January 1, 2025, qualified audiologists can provide these services directly, making care faster and easier for individuals needing hearing assistance. Citizens gain greater freedom in choosing a specialist and quicker access to necessary treatment.
Key points
Effective January 1, 2025, a doctor's referral is no longer required to receive covered audiology services under Medicare.
Medicare will cover diagnostic and treatment audiology services provided by qualified audiologists.
Audiology services will be available in more settings, including Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_2377
Sponsor: Sen. Warren, Elizabeth [D-MA]
Process start date: 2023-07-19
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_2377.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-07-19.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Effective January 1, 2025, a doctor's referral is no longer required to receive covered audiology services under Medicare.
  • Medicare will cover diagnostic and treatment audiology services provided by qualified audiologists.
  • Audiology services will be available in more settings, including Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Warren, Elizabeth [D-MA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Health Benefits