SOAR Act of 2025
SOAR Act of 2025
Plain Language Summary
# SOAR Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The SOAR Act (Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform Act) would change how Medicare pays for supplemental oxygen and related equipment, supplies, and services. Currently, these items are purchased through a competitive bidding program. This bill would instead establish separate, inflation-adjusted Medicare payments for oxygen and equipment. It would also create new Medicare coverage for respiratory therapist services and provide additional payment adjustments for these professionals.
The bill requires Medicare officials to develop an electronic prescription template to streamline the ordering process. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** This bill primarily affects Medicare beneficiaries who need supplemental oxygen, respiratory therapists who provide oxygen-related care, and suppliers of oxygen equipment. Key protections for patients include the right to choose their oxygen supplier and requirements that they receive clear information about the services they're getting. By moving away from competitive bidding, the bill aims to improve access and service quality, while the respiratory therapist coverage and payment adjustments could expand professional care options. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
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
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.