To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to expand the definition of critical access hospital under the Medicare program to include certain hospitals on Indian reservations.

# HR 4345 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would change Medicare rules to allow certain hospitals located on Indian reservations to qualify as "critical access hospitals." Critical access hospitals receive special Medicare funding and reduced regulatory requirements because they serve rural or remote areas with limited hospital access. By expanding the definition to include reservation-based hospitals, the bill aims to help these facilities access additional federal funding and operational flexibility. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects hospitals operated on Indian reservations and the Native American communities they serve.

It also impacts Medicare (the federal health insurance program for seniors and some disabled individuals) and potentially affects how federal healthcare dollars are distributed to rural and tribal healthcare systems. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Representative Dan Newhouse (R-Washington) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill has no specific subjects listed in official records, suggesting it may still be in early stages of development.