Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Rep. Tenney, Claudia [R-NY-24]
- Committees
- Ways and Means Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 18, 2025
Bottom line
The bill provides a three-year extension of existing Medicare add-on payments for ground ambulance services, aiming to prevent a reduction in reimbursement rates for providers.
What it actually does
This bill extends current Medicare add-on payments for ground ambulance services for an additional three years, from their scheduled expiration at the end of 2025 to the end of 2028. Specifically, it extends the 2% urban, 3% rural, and super rural bonus payments for ground ambulance services under Medicare Part B.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that extending these add-on payments is crucial for maintaining patient access to essential ground ambulance services, especially in rural and underserved areas. They contend that without these extensions, many ambulance providers would face significant financial strain, potentially leading to service reductions or closures, thereby jeopardizing timely emergency care for Medicare beneficiaries.
Opponents contend
Critics may argue that while temporary extensions provide short-term relief, they delay the implementation of more comprehensive, long-term reforms needed to address the underlying financial challenges faced by ground ambulance services. Opponents might also raise concerns about the increased federal spending associated with these extensions without a clear plan for sustainable reimbursement models.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core purpose and provisions quickly.
Section 2
Extension of Medicare Ground Ambulance Add-on Payments
This provision amends Section 1834(l) of the Social Security Act, which governs Medicare payments for ground ambulance services. It changes the expiration date for certain add-on payments from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2028. This means that the current enhanced reimbursement rates for ground ambulance services, including those for urban, rural, and super rural areas, will continue for an additional three years.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that these add-on payments are vital for the financial viability of ground ambulance services, particularly those operating in rural and low-volume areas where costs are higher and patient density is lower. They assert that without these extensions, many providers would be forced to reduce services or close, leaving vulnerable populations without critical emergency medical transport.
Critics contend
Opponents contend that while the payments offer temporary relief, they do not address the fundamental issues with Medicare's ambulance fee schedule. They suggest that continuous extensions without comprehensive reform lead to increased federal spending and delay the development of a more sustainable and equitable payment system that truly reflects the cost of providing services.
Tradeoffs
The provision highlights the tension between ensuring immediate patient access to critical services and the need for long-term fiscal sustainability and systemic reform within the Medicare program. It offers short-term stability for providers but defers the challenge of creating a permanent, cost-effective solution.