Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, alongside Senators Mark Warner and Amy Klobuchar, has introduced the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act of 2025. This legislation aims to simplify the process for Medicare beneficiaries to obtain supplemental oxygen by establishing a new payment methodology for non-liquid oxygen. This change intends to cover most Medicare beneficiaries under the base payment levels.

“It should be easier for people who need supplemental oxygen to get it,” said Senator Cassidy. "They have enough to worry about as it is."

The SOAR Act has gained support from several organizations, including the American Lung Association, the American Association for Respiratory Care, and others. The American Lung Association’s President, Harold Wimmer, expressed the significance of this act, stating that it is critical for the 1.5 million people in the U.S. who rely on supplemental oxygen.

Carl Hinkson from the American Association for Respiratory Care highlighted, “AARC is proud to stand with the coalition in creating a future where supplemental oxygen is available and affordable.”

Scott Staszak of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation also applauded the senators’ efforts, noting that “Thousands of people living with serious lung and respiratory diseases are confined to their homes, struggling for each breath because they are unable to access the supplemental oxygen they need.”

Organizations like the Council for Quality Respiratory Care and the American College of the Chest Physicians have voiced their support as well. Dan Starck from the Council for Quality Respiratory Care referred to the legislation as "a beacon of hope for patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and communities."

Dr. Jean Wright of the COPD Foundation emphasized the importance of the reform for those living with COPD, stating, “Many people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are struggling to lead more active and productive lives because Medicare policies unreasonably limit their access to supplemental oxygen therapy.”

M. Patricia Rivera, President of the American Thoracic Society, pointed out the deficiencies of the current system, noting that the new legislation will ensure patients receive the oxygen systems they truly need. Similarly, Scott Santarella from the Alpha-1 Foundation supports the measure, sharing that the legislation will improve outcomes for all oxygen-dependent patients in the U.S.

Diana Patterson, a Louisiana Alpha-1 patient, expressed her appreciation for the introduction of the legislation. “I am so proud of Senator Bill Cassidy for taking the lead on this Medicare Oxygen Payment Reform Legislation for U.S. citizens dependent on oxygen.”