The American Podiatric Medical Association applauds Representatives John Joyce, MD (R-PA), Kim Schrier, MD (D-WA), and Greg Murphy, MD (R-NC) for introducing the bipartisan Patients First Act, an important step toward modernizing the Medicare physician payment system and strengthening access to physician-led care. Physicians, including podiatrists, have faced years of inadequate Medicare payment updates that have failed to keep pace with rising practice costs placing increasing strain on independent practices and threatening patient access to care.
Podiatric physicians play a vital role in preventing lower extremity complications, preserving mobility, and improving the health and quality of millions of Medicare beneficiaries. A more stable, predictable physician payment system is essential in ensuring podiatric practices can continue providing timely, high-quality care in communities across the country.
The APMA appreciates the bipartisan leadership the GOP and Democratic Doctors Caucuses for proposing solutions to stabilize physician payment and protect access to care. APMA also appreciates the transparent and collaborative process undertaken by the bill sponsors and their staff in developing this legislation and is grateful for the opportunity to provide input throughout its development.
The APMA looks forward to reviewing the legislation in greater detail and working with Congress to advance comprehensive Medicare physician payment reforms that recognize the value of physician care, reduce unnecessary administrative burdens, and ensure Medicare beneficiaries continue to have access to the specialized foot and ankle care they need and deserve.