Medicare would let patients see audiologists without a doctor referral

What does this do?

Starting January 1, 2027, this bill would let Medicare patients see licensed audiologists directly for testing and treatment without a physician referral or supervision. Medicare would pay audiologists 80% of the approved fee schedule amount and add them to providers who bill on an assignment basis. Audiologists could also work at Rural Health Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers, but the bill does not expand billable service types beyond what was allowed at the end of 2026.

Who does it affect?

Medicare beneficiaries, mostly people 65 and older who need hearing or balance care, especially in rural areas. Audiologists, as Medicare-billing healthcare providers, are also directly affected.

Why does it matter?

Removing referral and supervision requirements changes how patients access hearing and balance care and shifts billing and practice rules for audiologists under Medicare.

Where does it stand?