Willamette ENT provider Dr. Suzanne Strand recently joined physicians from the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery in lobbying Capitol Hill about a proposed policy that could make it difficult for Medicare patients to receive care.
This September, more than 15 physicians with the AAO-HNS joined the Same Day Care Coalition‘s Advocacy Day to urge lawmakers to call for the withdrawal of the proposed same-day care payment policy.
Under the plan, Medicare would cover the highest-valued service in full, and payment for most other services provided during the same visit would be covered at 50%.
The group of AAO-HNS physicians is asking that the proposal be withdrawn.
“This matters because limiting payments for modifier 25 and procedures done on the same day office visits is going to significantly impact care for seniors,” Dr. Strand said.
On Capitol Hill, the group of physicians shared stories about real patients and caregivers across the country where same-day evaluation, imaging, testing and treatment truly made a difference.
AAO-HNS surveyed more than 1,400 otolaryngologists and found significant concern about the impact of the proposed Medicare policy. Results indicated that:
- 57% of respondents said they would be able to see fewer Medicare patients.
- More than 14% of respondents said they would have to stop accepting Medicare completely.
- More than 84% of respondents said it could mean longer waits, fewer referral options and more difficulty getting timely specialty care.
The AAO-HNS represents approximately 13,000 physicians and other medical professionals who treat the ears, nose, throat and related structures of the head and neck.
Read more about the Same Day Care Coalition’s work to ensure services remain easily accessible to Medicare patients on the alliance’s website.
“I came to be under Dr. Donovan's care during a medical emergency at the hospital. The care I received that day and in every interaction after, at Willamette ENT has been prompt, professional and very thorough. I feel very well cared for.”