ACR CEO Calls for Payment Stability and Reform

ACR^® CEO, Dana H. Smetherman MD, MPH, MBA, FACR, testified before the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, May 20, calling on lawmakers to take meaningful steps to stabilize Medicare physician payment and modernize key programs that impact patient care.

At the hearing, “Examining the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, MACRA, and Opportunities for Payment Reform,” Dr. Smetherman made a strong case for comprehensive payment reform, stressing that Congress must move beyond temporary fixes and establish a stable, predictable framework for physician reimbursement. She pointed to ongoing payment volatility under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule as a major concern for practices trying to plan, invest in innovation, and maintain access for Medicare patients. She also highlighted the unique concerns of non-patient facing physicians and challenges with participating in value based care models.

Dr. Smetherman also emphasized the need for passage of the Radiology Outpatient Ordering Transmission Act (H.R. 5737) as a solution for addressing the ever-increasing volume of imaging studies and the strained workforce. The ROOT Act would modernize the Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) program and facilitate implementation of a desperately needed utilization management tool for the ordering of advanced diagnostic imaging services. If implemented, the ROOT Act is estimated to save the Medicare program approximately $2 billion dollars over 10 years, with an additional estimated $1.5 billion in savings to Medicare beneficiaries over the same time period. These changes would improve patient care by reducing unnecessary testing and copays, creating a more efficient and affordable health care system. 

For more information or any questions, contact Rebecca Spangler, ACR Senior Director of Government Affairs.