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The SOAR Act, if passed, would significantly impact respiratory therapists by:
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Ensuring access to respiratory therapist services for Medicare beneficiaries:
The current Medicare system often limits patient access to respiratory therapists (RTs), whose expertise is crucial for optimal oxygen therapy management. The SOAR Act would directly address this by creating a new mechanism for Medicare to cover RT services provided to supplemental oxygen users, according to HealthLeaders Media.
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Creating a monthly payment add-on adjustment for respiratory therapist services:
This new add-on payment would ensure that providers receive adequate reimbursement for the time and resources invested in providing RT services, reflecting their value in optimizing oxygen therapy and patient outcomes.
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Modernizing reimbursement for respiratory therapists to support in-home visits:
The SOAR Act would also include coverage for in-home visits by licensed respiratory therapists, ensuring patients are matched with the oxygen equipment that best fits their prescription and receive crucial training and support in their own homes.
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Strengthening the role of respiratory therapists within the supplemental oxygen care team:
By providing for Medicare coverage and reimbursement, the SOAR Act elevates the importance of RTs as essential members of the care team for individuals requiring supplemental oxygen therapy.