Unless Congress acts by the end of the year, physician Medicare payments are scheduled to be cut by 4.5 percent on January 1, 2023. The cut is the result of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ proposal to reduce reimbursement for all physician services by 4.5 percent in 2023 to offset payment policy improvements in office and facility-based visits. The impending payment reduction comes as medical practices throughout the country are experiencing pressures stemming from rising rates of inflation and the aftermath of the pandemic.
The Kentucky Medical Association (KMA) joined the American Medical Association (AMA) and other state medical associations and national specialty societies in a letter calling on Congress to “Cancel the Cuts.” However, with only a few legislative days left in the “lame duck” session, physicians must act immediately to preserve patient access to care by asking Congress to stop the entire 4.5 percent in payment reductions. If Congress fails to act, it will further exacerbate the financial strain faced by physician practices, forcing some to close their doors and placing a greater strain on those who remain open.
Time is running out. Please take a moment to contact your Senators and Representatives and urge them to support Medicare patients and physicians.
