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Pharmacists in Medicare: Enhanced Healthcare Access in Underserved Areas

This act expands Medicare to cover services provided by pharmacists, especially in areas with a shortage of medical professionals. This means citizens living in such places will have easier access to basic health services previously only available from a physician. The changes will take effect from January 1, 2027.
Key points
Medicare will cover pharmacist services, similar to those provided by physicians, in health professional shortage areas.
Citizens in rural and less populated areas will gain easier access to healthcare.
Pharmacists will be able to provide more services, potentially easing the burden on physicians and reducing wait times.
The changes will apply to services furnished on or after January 1, 2027, with specific payment codes to be developed.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2800
Sponsor: Sen. Grassley, Chuck [R-IA]
Process start date: 2025-09-15
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Pharmacy and Medically Underserved Areas Enhancement Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_2800.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-09-15.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Medicare will cover pharmacist services, similar to those provided by physicians, in health professional shortage areas.
  • Citizens in rural and less populated areas will gain easier access to healthcare.
  • Pharmacists will be able to provide more services, potentially easing the burden on physicians and reducing wait times.
  • The changes will apply to services furnished on or after January 1, 2027, with specific payment codes to be developed.
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 Sen. Grassley, Chuck [R-IA].

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 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Health Benefits