WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Bob Casey (D-PA) and Steve Daines (D-MT) are leading the legislative effort to improve Medicare beneficiaries’ access to health care providers and help fill the provider gap that exists particularly in rural America. The Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act would allow radiologists to submit claims to Medicare for non-diagnostic services performed by radiologist assistants (RAs) they directly supervise in both the hospital and office setting.  

While RAs are recognized under Medicare to perform services under direct supervision, the radiology practices that employ them are unable to submit claims to Medicare for RA-performed services in hospitals, where they normally work. 

“Radiologist assistants are well qualified to address the increased demand in medical imaging services and fill the gap in the shortage of radiologists, particularly in rural areas. Allowing Medicare coverage for procedures performed by RAs is a commonsense way to fulfill specialized services and ensure patients receive timely and quality care,” Boozman said. 

“MARCA is important to Radiologist Assistants and their supervising Radiologists. The bill would allow optimal use of the skills of Radiologist Assistants and ensure appropriate reimbursement for procedures performed by them,” Paul Larson, M.D., FACR and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists President said. 

Similar legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.