Latest COVID-19 Surge Highlights Need to Stop CMS-directed
Cuts and To Keep Office-Based Specialists Viable

 

Washington, DC — Today, United Specialists for Patient Access (USPA) reminded Congress that it is critical to protect office-based providers during the nationwide COVID-19 surge. 
 

Over the course of the past year, USPA has warned policymakers that the devastating clinical labor policy cuts directed by CMS will force many office-based providers out of business and reduce treatment options for patients. This is why USPA is asking Congress to reverse these cuts in the February omnibus appropriations legislation. 

 

With COVID-19 cases spiking in communities around the country and overwhelming hospital resources, it’s a reminder that office-based providers serve a critical function for America’s health care system. 

 

Unfortunately, The CMS-directed reimbursement cuts of 20% will force office-based specialists to close their doors unless Congress acts. With fewer options available for patients, it puts more pressure on hospitals during the pandemic. 

 

Dr. Mark Garcia, USPA Health Policy Advisor and American Vascular Associates CMO, stated, “The pandemic is still here and hospitals need to keep their focus on treating COVID-19 patients. The current surge underscores why office-based interventions must be kept strong to serve as a relief valve for our health care system. It’s critical that patients have access to care from local office-based providers. Congress must act to reverse the 2022 CMS-imposed 20% cuts to office-based providers.”

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About the United Specialists for Patient Access (USPA): The mission of USPA is to unify and strengthen the voice of office-based specialists, enabling professionals and patient advocates to work collaboratively with Congress and the Administration and achieve near-term relief and long-term payment stability in the Physician Fee Schedule.  For more information, please click here: https://www.uspaccess.org