APMA proudly endorses the bipartisan Patients First Act (HR 9693), introduced by Representatives John Joyce, MD (R-PA); Kim Schrier, MD (D-WA); and Greg Murphy, MD (R-NC). The legislation represents an important step toward modernizing the Medicare physician payment system and strengthening access to physician-led care.
For years, physicians, including podiatrists, have faced 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 are essential to preserving mobility, preventing lower extremity complications, and improving the health and quality of life of millions of Medicare beneficiaries," said APMA President Patrick A. DeHeer, DPM. "The Patients First Act is a meaningful step toward creating a more stable and predictable physician payment system that supports high-quality patient care. APMA is proud to endorse this bipartisan legislation and commends Representatives Joyce, Schrier, and Murphy for their leadership in advancing thoughtful, long-overdue Medicare physician payment reform."
APMA also appreciates the bipartisan leadership of the GOP and Democratic Doctors Caucuses for developing solutions to stabilize physician payment and protect access to care. The association is grateful for the transparent and collaborative process undertaken by the bill sponsors and their staff and for the opportunity to provide input throughout the legislation's development.
APMA looks forward to working with Congress to advance the Patients First Act and broader Medicare physician payment reforms that recognize the value of all physicians, reduce unnecessary administrative burdens, and ensure Medicare beneficiaries continue to have access to the specialized foot and ankle care they need and deserve.