Bill · H.R. 7198· House(119-HR-7198)

Ensuring Access to General Surgery Act of 2026

Age: 61 years

California

Introduced: 1/22/2026
Last activity: 1/22/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Sponsored by: Ami Bera
Cosponsors: - 7 - 2

Health

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

The Ensuring Access to General Surgery Act of 2026 seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act regarding the designation of general surgery shortage areas. The bill mandates that the Secretary conduct a study through the Health Resources and Services Administration to assess how underserved populations access general surgeons in urban, suburban, and rural areas. This study includes analyzing various methodologies, such as using hospital service areas and surgeon-to-population ratios, to determine shortages. The Secretary is also required to consider factors like wait times, health outcomes, and travel times to healthcare centers. Following the study, a report must be submitted to Congress within one year. Finally, the Secretary may establish a formal methodology through rulemaking to designate and maintain a list of general surgery shortage areas.

Yes· 3 of 10

Would people in rural areas be better off under this?+5
The bill focuses on improving the assessment and designation of general surgery shortages specifically impacting rural communities.
Does this make health care easier to get in general?+5
The bill directs a study to improve the identification and designation of areas experiencing general surgery shortages to ensure better access to care.
Does this invest in rural communities?+4
The bill specifically aims to address the maldistribution of surgeons to ensure rural areas have better access to surgical services.