New Bill Introduced to Ensure Dedicated Payment for IVIG in Skilled Nursing Facilities

U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) and Doris Matsui (D-CA-07) have introduced the PI Post Acute Access Act to expand access to lifesaving care for individuals with primary immunodeficiencies (PI). Their bipartisan legislation would create a dedicated payment within Medicare for skilled nursing facilities (SNF) to provide intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) treatments onsite, preventing dangerous treatment delays, reducing avoidable hospitalizations and ensuring vulnerable patients get the care they need when and where they need it.  

“Outdated billing measures should not prevent vulnerable patients from receiving lifesaving care when and where they need it,” said Smith. “I am proud to join Congresswoman Matsui in introducing our bipartisan PI Post Acute Access Act to cut red tape and ensure that PI patients have access to the critical care they need.”

“Patients living with primary immunodeficiencies should not have to fight through red tape to get the care they need to stay healthy and safe. For many families, timely access to IVIG treatment can mean the difference between stability and a serious medical crisis,” said Matsui. “I have long worked to protect access to these lifesaving therapies, and the PI Post Acute Access Act builds on that commitment by helping ensure Medicare beneficiaries can continue receiving essential treatment in nursing facilities. No one should be left behind simply because of where they are receiving care.”

According to Jorey Berry, president and CEO of the Immune Deficiency Foundation, “For Medicare beneficiaries living with primary immunodeficiency, access to lifesaving IVIG therapy should never depend on where they receive care. This bill ensures that patients who need skilled nursing services are not forced to choose between essential care and the medication they need to survive. By creating a targeted payment solution, Congress can protect a vulnerable group and uphold the promise of equitable access for all patients, including those living with a rare condition.”