H.R. 7336: ALS Better Care Act
This bill, known as the ALS Better Care Act, aims to improve healthcare coverage for individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) under the Medicare program. The key features of this proposed legislation include:
Coverage of ALS-Related Services
The bill seeks to amend the Social Security Act, specifically to add provisions that would provide coverage for a variety of services related to ALS. These services include:
- Specialized physician or nurse practitioner support
- Occupational therapy support
- Speech pathology support
- Physical therapy
- Dietary support
- Respiratory support
- Registered nurse support
- Coordination of durable medical equipment
These services are viewed as essential for managing the complex medical needs of ALS patients. Accessibility to these services is expected to lead to improved patient outcomes and longer lifespans.
Payment System for ALS-Related Services
The legislation proposes a payment system that would provide a single payment amount for ALS-related services furnished during a patient visit. The initial payment amount is set at $800 for 2027, with annual adjustments based on market changes in subsequent years. The system also includes incentives for providers participating in ALS clinical trials to cover additional costs incurred during those trials.
No Cost Sharing
Under this bill, ALS-related services would be covered without any cost-sharing requirements for the patient. This means patients would not have to pay co-pays or deductibles for these services.
Telehealth Provisions
The bill emphasizes the importance of telehealth services for ALS patients, especially for those in rural or underserved areas. The legislation aims to ensure that remote medical management options are part of the care available to ALS patients, facilitating access to necessary services without the burden of traveling long distances.
Challenges in Clinical Trials
The bill mandates a report from the Secretary of Health and Human Services to identify challenges related to the administration and staffing of clinical trials for ALS. The report is intended to outline actionable steps to address these challenges and may include legislative recommendations for further improvement.
Implementation and Future Recommendations
The bill provides for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement these provisions, either through program instructions or formal rulemaking processes. Furthermore, it establishes a system for recommending ongoing adjustments in payment amounts based on evolving needs and costs associated with ALS-related services.
Relevant Companies
- AMGN (Amgen Inc.): This biotechnology company engages in the development and commercialization of therapies, including those for neuromuscular diseases such as ALS. Improved reimbursement for ALS-related care may enhance their market opportunities.
- BIIB (Biogen Inc.): This biopharmaceutical company specializes in therapies for neurological diseases and may see increased demand for research and therapies related to ALS as a result of enhancements in Medicare coverage.
- REGN (Regeneron Pharmaceuticals): Specializes in developing biopharmaceuticals for various medical needs, including neurological drugs. Increased funding and coverage for ALS treatment could open avenues for expanded research and treatment options.
This is an AI-generated summary of the bill text. There may be mistakes.
Sponsors
6 bill sponsors
Actions
2 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| Feb. 03, 2026 | Introduced in House |
| Feb. 03, 2026 | 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. |
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