ACR Responds to Senate Finance RFI on Healthcare Reform

ACR^® submitted comments to U.S. Senate Committee on Finance Democrats in response to its “Health Coverage that Works for Everyone” request for information (RFI). ACR took the opportunity to urge lawmakers to use physician-led clinical decision support and physician developed appropriate use criteria (AUC) as alternatives to broad prior authorization requirements for advanced diagnostic imaging, which can delay diagnoses, postpone treatment, and increase administrative burdens for patients and physicians.

The College highlighted the Radiology Outpatient Ordering Transmission (ROOT) Act (S. 1692/H.R. 5737) as a framework for reform. This legislation would modernize Medicare’s AUC program by giving clinicians access evidence-based imaging guidance at the point of care while preserving physician judgment. ACR said the approach could support appropriate imaging, reduce unnecessary testing, and lower costs without delaying patient care. The College also noted the bill would help protect small and rural practices from burdensome administrative requirements and maintain access to care in underserved communities.

For more information or if you have any questions, contact Ashley Walton, ACR Government Affairs Director.