Jenkins, Cleaver Introduce Legislation To Expand Access To Rural Anesthesiology Care

Press Release

Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) introduce H.R. 4781, the Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act of 2014, which will expand access to rural anesthesiology care.

"Access to quality health care in rural communities continues to be one of my top priorities," said Congresswoman Jenkins. "Congress must ensure our rural hospitals are able to sustain a health care system that provides folks the care they require, and we need cost-effective solutions to incentivize physicians to practice in these areas. I am pleased to introduce bipartisan legislation to provide greater access to anesthesiology professionals for our rural hospitals and help to improve the shortage of access to anesthesiology medical care in rural communities."

"Ensuring that our rural population has increased access to health care is critical to maintaining a vibrant community," stated Congressman Cleaver. "I am pleased to introduce this bipartisan bill that will give qualified rural hospitals the resources to attract and retain physician anesthesiologists for rural patients. By addressing the shortage of medical services in rural settings, this bill will expand access of care for underserved areas."

The Legislation:

H.R. 4781, the Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act of 2014will allow certain rural hospitals to use Medicare Part A funds on a "pass-through" basis to attract and retain physician anesthesiologists to provide services to rural patients.

Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) introduced the companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

Source