APTA President Scott Ward recently posted his thoughts on HR 3590, just signed into law. APTA’s advocacy efforts were successful in aligning some details of the law with APTA objectives to position physical therapy as a cost-effective, worthwhile healthcare option that should be accessible to all who need it. Following are some main points of the law that will affect the PT profession:
1. It extends the Therapy Cap Exceptions Process for 2010. A one-year extension is in effect through December 31, 2010.
2. It authorizes a study of Direct Access Under Medicare. Studies will be conducted on new delivery models, incl
uding patient Direct Access to physical therapy services under Medicare.
3. Creates Rural Payment Equity under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
4. Provides Rehabilitation as a Required Minimum Health Care Benefit as part of the health care insureance exchange.
5. Protects patients against denial or recission of coverage based on pre-existing medical conditions.
You can read more about the APTA’s position on their website and receive updates as this legislation evolves.