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Expanding Medicare Critical Access Hospital Definition for Indian Reservations

This bill aims to improve healthcare access for individuals living on Indian reservations. It allows more hospitals located in these areas to be designated as "critical access hospitals" under the Medicare program, potentially enhancing the quality and availability of medical services for residents.
Key points
Hospitals on Indian reservations can now more easily qualify as "critical access hospitals," even if closer to other facilities, under specific conditions.
New rules permit the establishment of psychiatric and rehabilitation units in these hospitals without bed number limitations, increasing access to specialized care.
These changes are set to take effect from August 1, 2025, meaning residents of reservations can anticipate improved access to medical services soon.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_4258
Sponsor: Rep. Newhouse, Dan [R-WA-4]
Process start date: 2025-06-30
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to expand the definition of critical access hospital under the Medicare program to include certain hospitals on Indian reservations.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_4258.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-06-30.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Hospitals on Indian reservations can now more easily qualify as "critical access hospitals," even if closer to other facilities, under specific conditions.
  • New rules permit the establishment of psychiatric and rehabilitation units in these hospitals without bed number limitations, increasing access to specialized care.
  • These changes are set to take effect from August 1, 2025, meaning residents of reservations can anticipate improved access to medical services soon.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

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 Rep. Newhouse, Dan [R-WA-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Health