Plain Language Summary
# I CAN Act (HR 1317) Summary **What the bill does:** The "Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act" would expand the roles of nurses and other non-physician healthcare providers in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Specifically, it would allow nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists to perform tasks currently requiring a physician's involvement, such as approving diabetic shoe coverage, overseeing cardiac rehabilitation programs, and certifying when patients need hospital admission. **Who it affects:** This bill primarily affects Medicare and Medicaid patients, healthcare providers (especially nurses and physician assistants), and potentially the cost and efficiency of these federal health insurance programs. It could increase patients' access to care by allowing more qualified professionals to handle certain medical decisions and services. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House.
It was introduced by Rep. David Joyce (R-OH) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act or the I CAN Act This bill allows other health care providers besides physicians (e.g., nurses) to provide certain services under Medicare and Medicaid. Among other changes, the bill (1) allows a nurse practitioner or physician assistant to fulfill documentation requirements for Medicare coverage of special shoes for diabetic individuals; (2) expedites the ability of physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists to supervise Medicare cardiac, intensive cardiac, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs; and (3) allows nurse practitioners to certify the need for inpatient hospital services under Medicare and Medicaid.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.