How HR 3730 changes current law

Compared against current U.S. Code AI-generated reading aid — verify against the official bill.

The bill amends the Social Security Act to modernize utilization requirements for rural health clinics under Medicare.

• 42 U.S.C. 1395x(aa)(2)(B)

  has an arrangement → meets the requirements described in paragraph (8);

  This change updates the requirement for facilities to meet specific criteria instead of merely having an arrangement.

• 42 U.S.C. 1395x(aa)

  (8) Requirements for Certain Facilities Described.--For purposes of paragraph (2)(B), with respect to a facility which is not a physician-directed clinic, the following requirements are described in this paragraph: (A) Arrangement.--The facility has an arrangement consistent with the provisions of State and local law relative to the practice, performance, and delivery of health services, with one or more physician assistants (as defined in paragraph (5)(A)) or one or more nurse practitioners (as defined in such paragraph). (B) Practice and oversight requirements.--The delivery of health services under such arrangement shall be in accordance with State law or the State regulatory mechanism governing the practice of physician assistants or nurse practitioners.

  This addition specifies requirements for non-physician-directed clinics regarding arrangements and oversight for health service delivery.

• 42 U.S.C. 1395x(aa)(2)(G)

  , including clinical laboratory services → and has prompt access to clinical laboratory services and additional diagnostic services

  This amendment updates the language to emphasize prompt access to clinical laboratory services.

• 42 U.S.C. 1395x(aa)

  employs → or contracts with

  This change allows rural health clinics to contract with physician assistants and nurse practitioners, enhancing workforce flexibility.

• 42 U.S.C. 1395x(aa)

  (i) is located in an area that is not an urbanized area → (i) is located in an area that is not in an urban area of 50,000 or more

  This change clarifies the geographic criteria for determining rural status.

• 42 U.S.C. 1395x(aa)

  the behavioral health limitation. → the behavioral health limitation, except in the case where the facility is located in an area that is designated (under section 332(a)(1)(A) of the Public Health Service Act) as a mental health professional shortage area.

  This amendment provides an exception to the behavioral health limitation for certain designated areas, improving access to mental health services.