SOAR Act of 2025
SOAR Act of 2025
Plain Language Summary
# SOAR Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Does:** The SOAR Act would change how Medicare pays for supplemental oxygen and related equipment, supplies, and services. Instead of using a competitive bidding program (where Medicare selects providers), the bill would establish separate, inflation-adjusted payments for oxygen services. It would also recognize respiratory therapist services as a covered benefit with additional payment adjustments, and require Medicare to create a standardized electronic template for doctors to use when prescribing oxygen-related items. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily affects Medicare beneficiaries (mainly seniors and some disabled individuals) who need supplemental oxygen, healthcare providers and respiratory therapists who supply these services, and oxygen suppliers.
The changes could expand patient choice in selecting suppliers and improve communication about services received. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. No action has been taken at this stage.
CRS Official Summary
Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform Act of 2025 or the SOAR Act of 2025This bill establishes certain requirements with respect to the payment and provision of supplemental oxygen and related services under Medicare.For example, the bill provides for separate payments, indexed to inflation, of oxygen and related equipment, supplies, and services under Medicare (rather than under the competitive acquisition program). It also specifically covers services that are provided by respiratory therapists under Medicare and provides for an additional payment adjustment for these services.Additionally, the bill (1) requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to develop an electronic template for providers to use when prescribing oxygen and related equipment, supplies, and services; and (2) establishes certain rights for beneficiaries receiving these items and services, such as the right to choose their suppliers and to receive clear communications and be informed about the services provided.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.