The bill would allow physician ownership in rural hospitals that are at least 35 miles away from a hospital’s main patient campus, according to a Sept. 23 news release shared with Becker’s. Legislation would also remove a ban that prevents existing POHs from building expansions.
“For too long, physician-owned hospitals have been restricted from expanding,” Russell Lonser, MD, chair of the AANS/CNS Washington Committee said in the release. “There is no sound rationale for restricting physicians from owning hospitals. Congress should act to bring back competition and pass the Physician Led and Rural Access to Quality Care Act (H.R. 9001).”
U.S. Reps. Michael C. Burgess, MD, R-Texas; Tony Cárdenas, D-Calif.; Morgan Griffith, R-Va., and Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, introduced the bill in the House.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
