U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced bipartisan legislation this week seeking to expand access to life-saving treatments for patients with primary immunodeficiencies.
Rep. Smith partnered with U.S. Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA) to introduce the PI Post Acute Access Act, H.R. 8528, which would create a dedicated Medicare payment system allowing Skilled Nursing Facilities to provide intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments onsite.
The legislation aims to eliminate treatment delays, cut down on preventable hospitalizations, and guarantee vulnerable patients can access care when and where they need it.
“Outdated billing measures should not prevent vulnerable patients from receiving lifesaving care when and where they need it,” Smith said on April 27. “I am proud to join Congresswoman Matsui in introducing our bipartisan PI Post Acute Access Act to cut red tape and ensure that PI patients have access to the critical care they need.”
The bill addresses gaps in Medicare coverage that can force patients to choose between essential nursing care and critical medication access.
“Patients living with primary immunodeficiencies should not have to fight through red tape to get the care they need to stay healthy and safe,” Rep. Matsui said. “No one should be left behind simply because of where they are receiving care.”
The Immune Deficiency Foundation praised the targeted payment solution, with President and CEO Jorey Berry saying, “This bill ensures that patients who need skilled nursing services are not forced to choose between essential care and the medication they need to survive.”