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SB 171

AN ACT INCREASING MEDICAID PAYMENT RATES FOR RADIOLOGICAL SERVICES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Somers

Connecticut bill increases Medicaid reimbursement rates for radiological imaging services to improve provider participation and patient access to diagnostic care.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Human Services
#medicaid
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Bill Summary · SB 171

Legislative bill overview

SB 171 proposes to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates specifically for radiological services (imaging procedures like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs) in Connecticut. The bill was introduced by Senator Heather Somers and is currently under review by the Joint Committee on Human Services.

Why is this important

Radiologists and imaging centers have argued that current Medicaid reimbursement rates do not adequately cover operational costs, potentially limiting patient access to diagnostic imaging services in underserved areas. Higher payment rates could incentivize providers to accept more Medicaid patients and maintain or expand imaging services, though it also increases state healthcare spending.

Potential points of contention

  • State budget impact: Increasing Medicaid rates raises overall program costs, requiring either budget reallocation or new funding sources during a period of fiscal constraints
  • Selective rate increases: Raising rates only for radiological services while other medical specialties face similar reimbursement pressures may create equity concerns among healthcare providers
  • Provider benefit vs. patient access: Rate increases benefit healthcare providers financially but may not directly translate to improved patient access if facilities choose not to expand Medicaid services

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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