Bill · H.R. 7145· House(119-HR-7145)

To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to establish a definition of essential health system in statute and for other related purposes.

Age: 53 years

Massachusetts

Introduced: 1/16/2026
Last activity: 1/16/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Sponsored by: Lori Trahan
Cosponsors: - 14 - 11

Health

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

This bill seeks to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to create a formal definition for an "essential health system." An essential health system is defined as a specific type of hospital that meets particular criteria regarding its service to Medicaid and low-income patients. The bill establishes specific benchmarks for Medicare disproportionate patient percentages and uncompensated care. It also mandates that MACPAC prepare and submit a list of these systems to Congress annually. Finally, the bill directs MACPAC to include payment policies in its agenda to provide targeted support for these systems.

Yes· 3 of 25

Would households on low incomes be better off under this?+8
Directly targets the preservation and support of hospitals that serve low-income and Medicaid populations.
Does this make health care easier to get in general?+6
By designating and supporting essential health systems, the bill aims to ensure continued access to critical community services for low-income populations.
Would Black Americans be better off under this?+4
Low-income healthcare support disproportionately benefits communities of color who utilize these systems.