Policy Alert: House Passes H.R. 5526 – Seniors' Access to Critical Medications Act of 2024

Sept. 2024

LUGPAs’ advocacy team is pleased to share that on September 23, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5526, the Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act of 2024, by voice vote under Suspension of the Rules. This bipartisan legislation, sponsored by Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), represents a significant advancement in ensuring Medicare patients have better access to vital medications.

Key highlights of the bill include:

Home delivery of medications: Physician practices could deliver Part D medications directly to Medicare patients’ homes.
Mail-order from physician offices: Patients could receive medications by mail from their physician’s office, enhancing convenience and access.
Caregiver access: Family members or caregivers would be authorized to pick up medications on behalf of Medicare patients, offering additional flexibility.

In response to Ranking Member Frank Pallone’s (D-NJ) concerns, critical amendments were negotiated between Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Pallone. These include:

A 5-year waiver of the Stark Law to allow practices to mail medications.
A requirement for an annual in-person visit to maintain patient oversight.
A CMS study to analyze the impact of this legislation on utilization and healthcare costs.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to gain strong bipartisan support and likely inclusion in an end-of-year legislative package.

LUGPA has actively advocated for this legislation through direct congressional engagement and our efforts during legislative fly-ins to Washington, D.C.

We will keep you updated as the bill progresses through the Senate.

Seniors' Access to Critical Medications Act - October 2023