Medicare patients could continue receiving hospital-level care at home for five more years under a bill passed this month by the U.S. House.
Lawmakers advanced the Hospital Inpatient Services Modernization Act (H.R. 4313), which extends the Acute Hospital Care at Home (AHCaH) program through 2030. The bipartisan vote came under suspension of the rules, a method reserved for widely supported bills.
A lifeline for patients and hospitals
Supporters say the move helps prevent a dangerous gap in care when current authorization for the program expires on January 30, 2026.
“This is a perfect example of how our government should work,” said Alexis Apple, director of federal affairs for ATA Action, the advocacy arm of the American Telemedicine Association. “This legislation proactively protects the needs of our most vulnerable patients and allows healthcare providers to deliver proven care with strong clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction.”
The AHCaH program, launched more than five years ago, allows hospitals to provide 24/7 acute-level care in patients’ homes. It includes daily in-person visits, continuous remote monitoring, lab services, and emergency response protocols. More than 330 hospitals in 37 states currently participate.
Eyes now on the Senate
The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate. ATA Action is urging lawmakers to act swiftly so President Trump can sign the bill before the deadline.
“During the recent government shutdown, the AHCaH program was subjected to an unacceptable lapse,” Apple said. “The need for a long-term extension is more urgent than ever.”
The program has shown benefits such as reduced hospital-acquired infections, fewer complications among older adults, and less strain on caregivers.
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