I CAN Act
Key claim: The I CAN Act would allow nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists to perform additional documentation, supervision, and certification functions under Medicare and Medicaid previously restricted to physicians.
Abstract
(HR1317 · 119th Congress) Improving Care and Access to Nurses Act or the I CAN Act This bill allows other health care providers besides physicians (e.g., nurses) to provide certain services under Medicare and Medicaid. Among other changes, the bill (1) allows a nurse practitioner or physician assistant to fulfill documentation requirements for Medicare coverage of special shoes for diabetic individuals; (2) expedites the ability of physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists to supervise Medicare cardiac, intensive cardiac, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs; and (3) allows nurse practitioners to certify the need for inpatient hospital services under Medicare and Medicaid. Latest action (2025-02-13): Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Why this matters
Scope-of-practice rules under Medicare and Medicaid determine which providers can sign off on care decisions like certifications, orders, and supervision, directly affecting patient access in areas with physician shortages. By letting NPs, PAs, and clinical nurse specialists perform more of these functions, the bill could shift where and how quickly beneficiaries can obtain covered services, and change staffing economics for hospitals, clinics, and home health agencies.