Medicare would cover portable ultrasound transport costs starting 2027

What does this do?

HR 2477 would extend Medicare's existing separate payment system for transportation and setup costs to include portable ultrasound equipment, not just portable X-ray machines. Under current law, Medicare reimburses providers separately when they transport and set up portable X-ray equipment at a patient's location, but no equivalent reimbursement exists for ultrasound. The bill would take effect January 1, 2027, and would also direct the government to set supplier standards similar to those already in place for portable X-ray providers.

Who does it affect?

Medicare patients who cannot easily travel to a clinic or hospital, including elderly and disabled individuals in nursing homes or receiving home health care, are the primary population affected. Suppliers and healthcare providers who offer portable diagnostic imaging services would also be affected, becoming eligible for the new separate payments.

Why does it matter?

Without equivalent reimbursement for portable ultrasound, providers and suppliers currently have less financial incentive to bring ultrasound equipment directly to patients, which can make access harder to arrange. The bill aims to align portable ultrasound reimbursement with the system already in place for portable X-rays.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Medicare pays transport and setup costs
• Mirrors existing portable X-ray payments
• Takes effect January 1, 2027