Medicare Payment Cuts Still Under Debate

According to the Congressional Budget Office, without congressional action Medicare physician payment rates will be reduced 10 percent in 2008. The 2007 Medicare Trustees report predicts total cuts of about 40 percent by 2016. Without Congressional action by the end of the year, Medicare physician payments will be cut by more than 15% over the next two years starting January 1, 2008. Ohio physicians stand to lose $600 million as a result. 

The House of Representatives has already responded to this matter by passing legislation that will provide for a positive Medicare physician payment update in 2008 and 2009. We need the Senate to take the same action and provide for a two-year positive payment update. AMCNO members are encouraged to contact Ohio Senators Brown (202) 224-2315 and Voinovich (202) 224-3353 asking them to take action on this important issue. Both Senators may also be reached via email  through our legislation link/find your legislator link.