119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 9984
This bill amends Medicare to cover and reimburse services provided by radiologist assistants, who are advanced-level radiographers certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Radiologist assistants can only work under the direct supervision of a radiologist and are not permitted to independently interpret imaging exams, but they can assist with various diagnostic and interventional imaging tasks. The bill requires Medicare to pay for these services when performed in hospitals, critical access hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and other facilities the Secretary designates, with payment made directly to the supervising radiologist at rates determined by the physician fee schedule. The legislation does not change payment for technical components of imaging services or for services personally performed by radiologists. The new coverage and payment provisions take effect on January 1, 2027.