H.R. 5621In committeeHealth care
Bill would add physical therapists to NHSC loan program
Data as of July 11, 2026
Starting in 2027, Medicare must cover physical therapy at rural and low-income clinics, and physical therapists can get federal student loan help.50-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill adds physical therapists to a federal program that helps pay off student loans for health workers who work in areas short on providers. It also requires Medicare to cover physical therapy services at Rural Health Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers beginning January 1, 2027.
Who does it affect?
Physical therapists with student debt who are open to working in underserved areas would be eligible for loan repayment help. Medicare patients in rural or low-income communities who currently have limited access to physical therapy through these clinics would gain new coverage options.
Why does it matter?
Areas with too few health providers may attract more physical therapists if those therapists can get help paying off their loans. Requiring Medicare to cover physical therapy at these clinics means more patients in underserved areas could access that care.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Fund rises $173M → $188M
- $15M reserved for PT loans
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
Physical Therapist Workforce and Patient Access Act of 2025
- Introduced:
- September 30, 2025
- Latest action:
- September 30, 2025
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, 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.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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