SOAR Act of 2025

Removal from Competitive Bidding: Section 101 removes oxygen and related equipment, supplies, and services from the competitive acquisition program beginning on January 1, 2026. This is positive because it aims to improve patient access to supplemental oxygen therapy outside of restrictive bidding areas.

Special Rules for Liquid Oxygen: Section 101 establishes a separate, adequate payment amount and payment floor for liquid oxygen and related equipment, supplies, and services, along with a monthly add-on for high-flow patients. This ensures that patients relying on liquid oxygen receive appropriate support and that providers are fairly reimbursed to maintain access.

Supplier Responsibilities: Section 102 defines the scope of services a supplier must provide, including initial evaluations, portable oxygen access, safety and hazard evaluations, setup, 24-hour on-call coverage, and travel coordination. This directly benefits beneficiaries by holding suppliers accountable for comprehensive and safe care.

Reimbursement for Respiratory Therapists: Section 201 adds respiratory therapist services to the definition of Medicare medical and other health services and implements a payment add-on adjustment. This provision ensures beneficiaries have access to specialized clinical monitoring and assessment.

Establishment of Beneficiary Rights: Section 401 establishes formal rights for individuals receiving oxygen, such as the right to choose and change suppliers, receive clear communications, have privacy protected, get timely repairs for broken equipment, and receive 30 days written notice before an involuntary discharge. This protects the dignity and safety of the people relying on these life-sustaining services.