ACR calls for ‘long-term’ policy changes after Medicare fee schedule lowered, then raised
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
Key takeaways:
- The proposed 3.4% cut in the physician fee schedule was reduced to 1.68%, according to the ACR.
- ACR called for “comprehensive health care reforms” for future stability and predictability.
The American College of Rheumatology praised lawmakers in Congress for lessening a proposed cut to Medicare physician payments but also called for “long-term systemic policy changes” to ensure future stability.
The 3.4% payment cut initially outlined in the 2024 Medicare physician fee schedule final rule was ultimately reduced to 1.68% as part of wider government funding legislation, according to a press release from the ACR.
![A quote from Deborah Dyett Desir saying, "The annual recurrence of [Medicare physician fee schedule] cuts underscores the urgent need for comprehensive health care reforms."](/~/media/slack-news/rheumatology/misc/infographics/2024/rh0324acr_graphic_01.jpg?w=800)
“While we commend Congress for this partial fix, rheumatologists remain concerned that without long-term reform to the Medicare payment system, maintaining access to quality care for individuals managing rheumatic diseases and other chronic conditions will be in jeopardy,” ACR President Deborah Dyett Desir, MD, said in the release.
CMS in November announced its conversion factor for physician services would be lowered from $33.89 to $32.74 this year. At the time, ACR said it was “disappointed” in the reduction amid rising inflation and noted possible impacts to workforce shortages and patient access to care.
“The annual recurrence of [Medicare physician fee schedule] cuts underscores the urgent need for comprehensive health care reforms,” Desire said. “The American College of Rheumatology urges Congress to prioritize sustainable solutions, ensuring patient access to essential services and fair reimbursement for health care providers.”
Read more about
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts