U.S. Representative Jim Renacci (OH) introduced H.R. 3328, a bill to help those opening advanced medical imaging facilities comply with the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) of 2008.

“This bill creates a six month grace period during which new advanced medical imaging providers can receive Medicare reimbursement while they apply for accreditation – something not allowed for under current law,” said Renacci. “It is a simple solution for a problem that was overlooked when MIPPA was originally passed. It will spur job creation and help small, start-up medical imaging businesses in Ohio and around the country. At a time when unemployment is hovering around nine percent we cannot let overly-broad regulations stand in the way of opportunities to create jobs.”

In order for new advanced imaging facilities to receive MIPPA accreditation, they must submit specific case studies, quality assurance information and other documentation that may take new suppliers a period of time to acquire. The new supplier would not be eligible for Medicare reimbursement for services rendered during this period, which typically lasts about six months. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have acknowledged that MIPPA does not provide them with the authority to provide a grace period for new suppliers. This represents a serious barrier to entry for those wishing to start a business and create jobs.

Taxpayers would not, however, be on the hook for reimbursements paid to companies whose application for accreditation was denied. The legislation includes language that specifies that the provider is required to repay any state or federal reimbursements received during the grace period if it does not receive approval.