S.2426

The bill proposes to amend Medicare Part B to cover certain pharmacist services and set payment rates.

The Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act amends Medicare Part B to cover pharmacist services, including those for COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and streptococcal pharyngitis. It sets payment rates at 80 percent of the lesser of the actual charge or 85 percent of the Medicare payment basis, or 100 percent for services addressing public health needs. The bill also prohibits balance billing for these services and applies to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2026.