01 — The Text
What.
- Medicare would pay for ground ambulance dispatches even when patients aren't transported to hospitals.
- CMMI tests this model for 5 years with payment rates matching standard transport rates.
- GAO must study how the model affects Medicare beneficiary access to emergency services.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Medicare beneficiaries could get emergency assessment without hospital transport costs.
- Ambulance services gain revenue for non-transport calls currently unpaid by Medicare.
- Trade-off: expands coverage but increases Medicare spending unless transport rates drop.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill introduced in Senate on Nov. 6, referred to Finance Committee—early stage with no scheduled votes.
- Needs committee approval, full Senate vote, House passage before becoming law.
- Track progress at Congress.gov or contact your senator to express support or concerns.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Nov 6, 2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S7964)
- Nov 6, 2025 — Introduced in Senate