Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB705

Introduced
3/8/23  

Caption

SPARC Act Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act

Impact

If enacted, SB705 would introduce incentives for specialty physicians to practice in rural communities, potentially reshaping the healthcare landscape in these areas. This could mitigate current healthcare disparities where rural residents have limited access to specialized medical treatment. By facilitating better healthcare access, the bill aims to not only improve patient outcomes but also encourage more healthcare professionals to consider rural practice as a viable career path.

Summary

SB705, known as the SPARC Act (Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act), seeks to enhance healthcare access in rural areas by increasing the availability of specialty physicians. The bill's primary objective is to address the shortage of specialized medical professionals in less populated regions, thereby improving the overall healthcare delivery system. Proponents of the bill argue that increased access to specialty care is essential for the health and well-being of rural populations, who often face barriers in obtaining necessary medical services.

Contention

Despite the positive outlook from supporters, the bill has faced scrutiny concerning its funding mechanisms and the resources required to implement its provisions effectively. Critics have raised concerns about adequate funding for the proposed incentives and whether these incentives would be sufficient to attract specialists to rural areas. There are also worries that focusing on specialty care may divert attention from strengthening primary care services, which are crucial for comprehensive health management in rural settings.

Companion Bills

US HB2761

Same As SPARC Act Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act

Previously Filed As

US HB2761

SPARC Act Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act

US SB1380

SPARC Act Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act

US SB665

Conrad State 30 and Physician Access Reauthorization Act

US HB1254

Rural Obstetrics Readiness Act

US HB1711

Rural America Health Corps Act

US SB230

Rural Physician Workforce Production Act of 2023

US SB4246

Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act

US HB8223

Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act

US HB593

Rural Physicians Retention Loan Repayment Program; create.

US HB1634

HELLPP Act Helping Ensure Life- and Limb-Saving Access to Podiatric Physicians Act

Similar Bills

US HB2761

SPARC Act Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act

US SB1380

SPARC Act Specialty Physicians Advancing Rural Care Act

TX HB3310

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TX SB1187

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TX HB2387

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CT SB00405

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CA AB2107

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CA SB481

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