H.R. 2477: Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act of 2025, proposes amendments to the Social Security Act to enhance Medicare coverage for portable ultrasound services. Below are the key elements of what the bill seeks to achieve:

Coverage for Portable Ultrasound Services

The bill aims to amend section 1861(s)(3) of the Social Security Act to include portable ultrasound tests alongside diagnostic X-ray tests. This means that portable ultrasound services will officially fall under the types of tests covered by Medicare.

Payment Structure for Portable Ultrasound

In amending section 1834 of the Social Security Act, the bill intends to establish equitable payment for portable ultrasound transportation and setup services. Key points include:

• Separate Payment: Medicare will provide separate payments for portable ultrasound transportation and setup services, comparable to how it currently treats portable X-ray services.
• Service Requirements: The Secretary of Health and Human Services will be tasked with outlining the requirements for suppliers providing portable ultrasound services. These requirements will be similar to those that currently apply to portable X-ray services.

Implementation Timeline

The changes proposed by the amendments will take effect for services provided on or after January 1, 2027. This gives time for adjustments to be made in the Medicare reimbursement framework and for stakeholders in the healthcare system to prepare for the new provisions.

Relevant Companies

• GE (General Electric): As a major manufacturer of ultrasound equipment, GE could see an increase in demand for their portable ultrasound devices due to expanded Medicare coverage.
• PHG (Philips): Philips, known for its healthcare technology, particularly imaging systems, may experience similar impacts as demand for portable ultrasound services grows.
• SLAB (Silicon Laboratories): If the bill leads to increased use of portable ultrasound devices, companies involved in the production of relevant technology components might see changes in their business operations.