The following is a press release issued by the ACR on March 11, 2024:
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) applauds Congress for passing legislation to mitigate the 3.4 percent reduction in physician payments outlined in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule for CY2024 but also calls on policymakers to seek long-term systemic policy changes that will provide more stability and predictability for providers.
“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,” remarked Deborah Dyett Desir, MD, President of the American College of Rheumatology. “The annual recurrence of MPFS cuts underscores the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare reforms. The American College of Rheumatology urges Congress to prioritize sustainable solutions, ensuring patient access to essential services and fair reimbursement for healthcare providers.”
The payment cut reduction, from 3.4 percent to 1.68 percent, was included in recently passed broader funding legislation. This reduction comes on top of cumulative cuts that, when adjusted for inflation, amount to an overall decline in Medicare physician payment of 30 percent since 2001, according to the American Medical Association.
As the nation’s leading medical specialty society representing rheumatologists, the ACR remains committed to advocating for policies that prioritize patient well-being and support the needs of rheumatology practices across the country.