CMS released the CY 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule, which includes updates to payment rates and several policies affecting podiatric physicians. Due to the advocacy efforts of APMA and its members, the final MPFS includes an increase in the conversion factor (CF) for 2026 that is largely driven by a 2.5 percent payment increase passed by Congress in the One Big Beautiful Bill. These changes to the CF as well as other changes to payment for services mean podiatrists are estimated to see an increase in total Medicare payments of more than four percent for 2026.
For a more detailed breakdown, read APMA's full CY 2026 MPFS Summary here. Some key updates for podiatrists include:
Work RVU increases finalized for both great toe arthrodesis codes (CPT® 28750 and 28755); an APMA advocacy win!
CMS finalized an "efficiency adjustment of -2.5%" to many non-time-based services; APMA continues to work with more than 30 medical specialty groups to oppose its implementation. Take action now through APMA's eAdvocacy Center at www.apma.org/eAdvocacy.
CMS adopted a new skin substitute payment rate of $127.28 per square cm, despite APMA's concerns about patient access and unintended consequences.
CMS introduced a new Podiatry MIPS Value Pathway (MVP) for 2026; MVPs remain optional as CMS transitions away from traditional MIPS.
Another APMA advocacy win! The MIPS performance threshold will remain at 75 points for 2026–2028, providing needed stability for clinicians.
Contact the APMA Advocacy Department with any questions or concerns.