The CRITICAL Act would increase Medicare reimbursement rates for healthcare services provided by critical access hospitals located in noncontiguous states, specifically Alaska and Hawaii. Starting January 1, 2025, these hospitals would receive 105 percent reimbursement instead of the standard 101 percent for inpatient services, outpatient services, ambulance services, and skilled nursing facility services. The bill aims to help rural hospitals in geographically isolated states offset higher operating costs and maintain access to care for their communities. No specific appropriations or funding amounts are mentioned in the legislation, as the changes work through the existing Medicare payment system. The bill was introduced in September 2024 and referred to the Senate Committee on Finance.
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