Boozman, Luján Champion Greater Access to Radiology Services

WASHINGTON-U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced legislation to improve Medicare beneficiaries' access to medical imaging services and address the provider shortage that exists nationwide, particularly in rural America. The Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act (MARCA) would allow radiologists to submit claims to Medicare for non-diagnostic services performed by radiologist assistants (RAs) they directly supervise in both the hospital and office setting.

While RAs are recognized under Medicare to perform services under direct supervision, the radiology practices that employ them are unable to submit claims to Medicare for RA-performed services in hospitals, where they most frequently work.

"Medicare patients need timely access to medical imaging, but current guidelines continue to limit providers' ability to utilize this important diagnostic tool. We can remedy that by ensuring radiologist assistants, who are well qualified to assist on diagnostic and therapeutic radiology procedures, have the same opportunity whether in a hospital or doctor's office. Updating the regulations to allow reimbursement in either setting is a commonsense solution that I am pleased has bipartisan support," Boozman said.

"Too many Medicare patients, especially in rural communities across New Mexico, are struggling to access timely care because of health care workforce shortages and unnecessary barriers," said Luján. "Qualified RAs are already playing an important role in delivering care, and Medicare policy should reflect that. This legislation will help expand access to quality care, reduce strain on providers, and ensure more seniors get the care they need closer to home."

In 2019, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services adjusted RA supervision requirements, which allowed providers to be reimbursed by Medicare for services performed by RAs in the office setting. However, the adjustment did not include reimbursement by Medicare for RA services performed in the hospital setting, creating a disparity that negatively impacts the radiology care available in hospitals. The bipartisan MARCA bill addresses that gap to restore access for patients in either setting and removes disincentives that jeopardize the ability of radiologists to meet demand for diagnosis and treatment.

Supporters of the legislation include the Arkansas Society of Radiologic Technologists, Arkansas Radiological Society, American College of Radiology, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Society of Radiology Physician Extenders, Association for Medical Imaging Management and RAYUS Radiology.

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