Rural ER Access Act

This bill makes it easier for hospitals to run off-campus ERs and clinics in far‑away areas. It removes the current rule that these sites must be within 35 miles of the main hospital to count as part of that hospital for Medicare payments, which can help bring hospital‑level care to more rural communities. The health department must change the rule within 60 days after the law takes effect.

Key points:

• Who is affected: People on Medicare, rural patients, hospitals, and off‑campus ERs/clinics.
• What changes: The 35‑mile limit is removed so these sites can be treated as part of a hospital for Medicare billing and support.
• When: The change must be made within 60 days of the law’s enactment.