Underwood Introduces Bill to Expand Medicare Coverage for Addiction Treatment

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood has introduced bipartisan legislation that would require Medicare to cover residential treatment for seniors with substance use disorders. The Residential Recovery for Seniors Act is co-sponsored by Representatives Paul Tonko of New York, Carol Miller of West Virginia, and David Valadao of California. Underwood said the bill would help older adults receive addiction treatment when they need it by expanding Medicare coverage through a new benefit under Medicare Part A. Lawmakers said about 7 million seniors have a substance use disorder, but many cannot access residential treatment because Medicare does not currently cover those services. Supporters of the bill said the gap in coverage can delay care and lead to more serious health problems. The legislation is backed by several national and state organizations that provide addiction treatment and behavioral health services.

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