Kings County Times

WASHINGTON – Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-22) has introduced the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act aimed at improving access to supplemental oxygen for Medicare beneficiaries. Joining him in this initiative are Reps. Julia Brownley (CA-26), Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08), and Adrian Smith (NE-03), with Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introducing companion legislation in the Senate.

Valadao emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Supplemental oxygen is a lifeline for so many people, but too many struggle to access the oxygen that works best for their lifestyle.”

Brownley echoed his sentiment, emphasizing, “No one should suffer the pain and fear of struggling to breathe. This bill will help ensure that the more than 1.5 million American seniors who rely on supplemental oxygen will have access to the care and portable oxygen supplies they need to lead more fulfilling and healthier lives.”

The SOAR Act has garnered support from various organizations, including the American Lung Association, Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, and COPD Foundation, among others. Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, expressed appreciation for the bill, stating, “The SOAR Act aims to give people access to the supplemental oxygen they need.”

The legislation addresses challenges faced by Medicare beneficiaries in accessing supplemental oxygen, such as the competitive bidding process that has caused payment rates to drop substantially. The SOAR Act seeks to remove oxygen and oxygen equipment from Medicare competitive bidding, establish a separate payment rate for liquid oxygen, and create protections for Medicare beneficiaries who use supplemental oxygen.

With the introduction of the SOAR Act, a coalition of bipartisan lawmakers, beneficiary advocates, experts, and stakeholders have come together to support comprehensive oxygen reform. The bill aims to provide greater access to higher quality supplemental oxygen systems, ensuring that patients can lead fuller and healthier lives without financial hardship worries.

The full text of the bill can be accessed for further details on the proposed reforms.