What legislation primarily determines the services covered under Medicare?

The primary legislation that determines the services covered under Medicare is federal legislation. Medicare is a federally funded program, established under the Social Security Act, and the scope of its coverage is defined by laws enacted at the federal level. This includes regulations and guidelines set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Federal legislation specifically outlines what medical services, equipment, and treatments are reimbursable under Medicare. This legal framework ensures that there is a consistent standard across the entire country, allowing beneficiaries to receive uniform care regardless of where they live. Moreover, changes to what is covered can typically only be made through new federal laws or amendments to existing ones.

State laws, while influential in other aspects of healthcare, do not dictate Medicare benefits, and insurance company policies vary widely and typically pertain to supplemental or private insurance plans. Provider agreements refer to specific arrangements between providers and Medicare or other insurance entities but do not establish the overarching framework of services covered under Medicare.