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AACE backs legislation to extend access to DXA tests under Medicare
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The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists issued a press release supporting the introduction of US House and Senate bills that will preserve patient access to osteoporosis testing and treatment services under the Medicare program.
The “Preservation of Access to Osteoporosis Testing for Medicare Beneficiaries Act of 2011” will extend current Medicare payment rates for DXA tests through 2013. Without congressional action, Medicare payment rates for DXA will be reduced by approximately 50% at the beginning of 2012. Physicians will be forced to discontinue DXA tests because payment rates will not cover the cost of providing the procedures, according to the release. The legislation was introduced on May 26.
“The introduction of this legislation demonstrates a strong commitment to disease prevention, improved health outcomes and reducing growing health care costs,” Yehuda Handelsman, MD, AACE president, said in the release. “AACE calls on Congress to enact this important legislation this year.”
Statistics from the National Osteoporosis Foundation show that osteoporosis was responsible for an estimated 2 million fractures and $19 billion in associated costs in 2005. By 2025, experts predict 3 million osteoporotic fractures and more than $25 billion in related costs.
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