Coverage of portable ultrasound transportation and set up services under the Medicare program

(a) In general Section 1861(s)(3) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(s)(3)) is amended by striking diagnostic X-ray tests and inserting diagnostic X-ray and ultrasound tests. (b) Ensuring equitable payment for portable ultrasound transportation services Section 1834 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: (aa) Ensuring equitable payment for portable ultrasound transportation and set Up services (1) In general The Secretary shall provide a separate payment under this part for portable ultrasound transportation and set up services in the same manner and to the same extent that separate payments are provided for portable X-ray transportation and set up services. (2) Payment requirements The Secretary shall specify requirements applicable to suppliers of portable ultrasound transportation and set up services under this part. Such requirements shall be substantially similar to the requirements applicable to suppliers of portable X-ray services under subpart C of part 486 of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation).. (c) Effective date The amendments made by this section shall apply with respect to services furnished on or after January 1, 2027.