Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB4484

Introduced
5/8/25  

Caption

Human services: medical services; coverage policies for speech-language pathologists; modify. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109z.

Impact

The introduction of HB4484 has the potential to enhance access to essential speech therapy services for patients, as it may encourage more licensed speech-language pathologists to provide these services without the fear of reimbursement issues. By defining clear reimbursement policies, especially for those therapists who don’t hold a specific certification, the bill can reduce barriers to care, ultimately benefiting a broader range of individuals requiring audiological and speech-language therapy services across Michigan.

Summary

House Bill 4484 aims to amend the 1939 PA 280, known as the Social Welfare Act, to allow speech-language pathologists licensed in Michigan to seek reimbursement for audiological rehabilitation and speech-language therapy services. The legislation specifies that this right to reimbursement holds regardless of whether the speech-language pathologist possesses a certificate of clinical competence. This change is significant for healthcare providers in the state, as it seeks to clarify the rights and reimbursements available to licensed practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology.

Contention

While the bill appears to have clear advantages for healthcare access, discussions around its implications may reveal varying opinions. Supporters of the bill may emphasize the importance of expanding patient access to therapy services, while opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential devaluation of certification standards in the field. The debate could also focus on how this legislative change aligns with existing laws and regulations governing medical reimbursements in Michigan, as practitioners and regulatory bodies assess the impact on professional standards and patient care.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI SB0301

Human services: medical services; coverage for doula services; require. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109o.

MI SB1183

Human services: medical services; Medicaid coverage for fertility preservation; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109p.

MI SB1127

Human services: medical services; coverage for group prenatal care services; require. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109t.

MI HB5027

Human services: medical services; coverage for certain prenatal screenings; require. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109o.

MI HB6046

Human services: medical services; coverage for community violence prevention services; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 to 400.119b) by adding secs. 89 and 89a.

MI SB1056

Human services: medical services; medical assistance coverage for donor human milk; require under certain conditions. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109o.

MI HB6127

Human services: medical services; coverage for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders and treatment of autism spectrum disorders; require. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109u.

MI SB0974

Human services: medical services; coverage for contraception and emergency contraception; require. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109q.

MI SB1058

Human services: medical services; medical assistance coverage for ultrasound procedures and fetal nonstress tests performed in certain locations; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding secs. 109q & 109r.

MI HB6153

Human services: medical services; coverage for prescribed pediatric extended care; require. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 109u. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5974'24

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.