Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB2538

Introduced
4/1/25  

Caption

CARE Act of 2025 Comprehensive Alternative Response for Emergencies Act of 2025

Impact

If enacted, HB2538 would mark a significant shift in how Medicare reimburses emergency medical services. This shift could lead to improved access to emergency care for Medicare beneficiaries, allowing for timely medical interventions without the necessity of transportation. By focusing on treating individuals in place, it aims to streamline emergency response processes and improve overall outcomes for emergency medical situations. However, its implementation would require close coordination with state and local licensing requirements, potentially facing regulatory challenges.

Summary

House Bill 2538, known as the CARE Act of 2025, aims to amend the Social Security Act by requiring the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation to test a comprehensive alternative response model for emergencies under the Medicare program. The intention of this bill is to enhance the delivery of emergency medical services, particularly concerning ground ambulance services, by allowing for changes in how these services are compensated. The model would provide payment for treatment services initiated by an emergency medical call, even if the individual does not require transportation to a healthcare facility.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2538 include concerns over how the alternative response model might impact existing emergency service protocols and the financial implications for ambulance service providers. Critics may argue that the changes could lead to inconsistencies in emergency care standards or financial strain on services reliant on transport fees. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the adequacy of the model in ensuring quality care and its effectiveness in improving patient outcomes compared to traditional emergency responses, necessitating comprehensive data analysis and reporting as mandated by the bill.

Congress_id

119-HR-2538

Policy_area

Health

Introduced_date

2025-04-01

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB9622

Comprehensive Dental Reform Act of 2024

US HB3725

FORCE Act of 2023 First Responders’ Care Expansion Act of 2023

US HB1637

Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act

US HB1672

Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act

US HB7856

PREVENT DIABETES Act Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-based Strategies Act

US HB6415

CARE for First Responders Act Crisis Assistance and Resources in Emergencies for First Responders Act

US HB8844

CARE for Kids Act of 2024 Caregivers, Access, and Responsible Expansion for Kids Act of 2024

US HB7142

Alternatives to PAIN Act Alternatives to Prevent Addiction In the Nation Act

US HB8977

Improving Access to Emergency Medical Services Act of 2024

US SB4357

Comprehensive Dental Reform Act of 2024

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.