I CAN Act

The I CAN Act, currently under committee consideration in the Senate, would expand the scope of services that non-physician healthcare providers can deliver under Medicare and Medicaid programs. Specifically, the bill would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to complete documentation requirements for Medicare coverage of special diabetic shoes, and would enable physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists to supervise cardiac rehabilitation and pulmonary rehabilitation programs more quickly. Additionally, nurse practitioners would be permitted to certify the medical necessity for inpatient hospital services under both Medicare and Medicaid.

If enacted, these changes could affect patient access to care by allowing more healthcare providers to deliver services, potentially reducing wait times and expanding care availability in areas with physician shortages. The bill reflects a broader policy approach of utilizing the full scope of non-physician healthcare professionals' training and credentials. However, the bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.