Plain Language Summary
# SOLES Act Summary **What It Does:** The SOLES Act would require Medicare (the federal health insurance program for seniors and some disabled individuals) to reimburse sole community hospitals in Alaska and Hawaii for at least 94% of their reasonable costs when providing outpatient services. Sole community hospitals are the only hospital serving a particular geographic area, making them critical infrastructure for their regions. **Who It Affects:** This bill specifically targets hospitals in Alaska and Hawaii that serve as the only medical facility for their communities. It would also affect Medicare beneficiaries in these states by potentially improving access to outpatient care.
The bill is sponsored by Rep. Nicholas Begich (R-AK) and reflects concerns about healthcare costs and access in remote or isolated areas. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. No further action has been taken at this time.
CRS Official Summary
Save our Lone Emergency Services Act or the SOLES ActThis bill requires Medicare payments to sole community hospitals in Alaska or Hawaii to cover at least 94% of the reasonable costs of covered outpatient services.
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.