If passed, new bipartisan legislation would require Medicare to recognize qualified radiology assistants as non-physician practitioners. Professionals with non-physician practitioner status can perform certain key tasks, helping doctors manage their workloads.  

The Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act of 2016 (S 2940) was introduced in the Senate earlier this month by Senators John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.). Its companion legislation, the Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act of 2016 (HR 4614), was introduced in the House of Representatives back in February. The House bill was introduced by Representatives Pete Olsen (R-Texas), Mike Doyle (D-Pa.), Dave Reichert (R-Wa.), and Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.).

“Utilizing the expertise of radiology assistants is critical to healthcare delivery,” Boozman said in a prepared statement. “These healthcare professionals are well qualified to address the increased demand in medical imaging services and fill the gap in the shortage of radiologists, particularly in rural areas. Ensuring the procedures performed by RAs are covered by Medicare is commonsense to providing seniors with the specialized services they deserve.”

“This legislation will allow radiology assistants to utilize their expertise and training to help care for our seniors and people with disabilities,” Casey said in the same statement.