H.R. 8923In committeeHealth care
Medicare home observation pilot program set for two-year trial under HHS
Data as of July 11, 2026
A two-year test lets certain hospitals care for Medicare observation patients at home using in-person visits and telehealth instead of a hospital stay.50-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill creates a two-year test program allowing participating hospitals to monitor and treat certain Medicare patients at home instead of keeping them in the hospital under observation status. Care would be delivered through a mix of in-person visits and telehealth. After the program ends, the Department of Health and Human Services must publish a public report comparing patient outcomes, costs, and care quality between the two approaches.
Who does it affect?
Medicare patients who would otherwise be placed in hospital observation status are the people this program would affect, meaning adults 65 and older or those with certain qualifying disabilities. Hospitals that choose to apply and meet federal safety standards may also participate.
Why does it matter?
The report required at the end of the program is meant to give policymakers information to decide whether to make home-based observation care permanent. Any hospital that stops meeting safety and quality standards can be removed from the program.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
At HOME Services Act
- Introduced:
- May 20, 2026
- Latest action:
- May 20, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, 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.
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