Congress Will Weigh Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform Act
Bipartisan legislation aims to improve access to respiratory care for millions before the current session ends.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Asthma
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As of September 15, 2026, advocates are pushing for the passage of the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act. This bipartisan legislation seeks to refine Medicare documentation requirements and expand patient access to high-flow liquid oxygen.
Why it matters
Current Medicare systems create significant hurdles for patients attempting to obtain necessary respiratory support. The proposed reform aims to streamline these processes while simultaneously addressing concerns regarding fraud and abuse.
Over 1.5 million people in the U.S. utilize supplemental oxygen for daily respiratory needs. The SOAR Act, introduced as H.R. 2902 and S. 1406, currently lists 69 cosponsors in the House and nine in the Senate.
The players
Council for Quality Respiratory Care
This organization represents home respiratory care providers and serves as a leading advocate for patients requiring oxygen therapy.
American Lung Association
This non-profit organization works to improve lung health and prevent lung disease through education, advocacy, and research.
COPD Foundation
This group focuses on developing and supporting initiatives that assist individuals affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The details
The SOAR Act intends to bolster access to portable high-flow liquid oxygen for those in need. Furthermore, the legislation incorporates measures to strengthen Medicare documentation standards, which proponents argue will effectively mitigate fraud and system abuse.
Timeline
September 15, 2026: The Council for Quality Respiratory Care issued an official announcement.
December 31, 2026: Advocates have set this as the target deadline for legislative passage.
January 3, 2027: The current Congress concludes its session.
Health Landscape
This legislation updates existing Medicare documentation requirements, reflecting a broader trend of reforming complex healthcare administrative systems. By targeting these requirements, the bill aims to bridge the gap between necessary medical care and existing bureaucratic constraints.
If the legislation passes, patients may experience fewer administrative barriers when attempting to secure supplemental oxygen equipment. These changes are designed to provide individuals with more reliable access to the portable technology necessary for their daily health routines.
The takeaway
Patients who rely on supplemental oxygen should stay informed on these legislative developments as they could significantly simplify the acquisition process. Ensuring consistent access to high-flow equipment remains a primary goal for the health advocacy community moving into the new year.
Further reading
For more information on respiratory health and policy, visit the Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by HME Business.
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Should the federal government pass new legislation to expand patient access to supplemental medical equipment?
