As an informed citizen, it’s crucial to understand the impact of recent legislative developments on healthcare services, particularly in the field of physical and occupational therapy. The Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule for CY2024, as released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), has alarmingly finalized a cut of -3.4% for these vital therapy providers. This reduction poses a significant threat not just to the providers themselves but, more importantly, to the patients who rely on these essential services.

The implementation of these cuts will intensify current challenges in the healthcare sector, creating barriers for patients seeking necessary care. Despite widespread opposition and warnings from various Medicare stakeholders, CMS has proceeded with this decision, raising concerns across the healthcare continuum.

However, there is still hope and a course of action we can take. Several organizations, including the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the Alliance for Physical Therapy Quality and Innovation (APTQI), have joined forces, calling on Congress to intervene urgently. To address this issue, Representatives Greg Murphy (R-NC), Danny Davis (D-IL), Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Larry Bucshon (R-IN), and Michael Burgess (R-TX) have introduced the “Preserving Seniors’ Access to Physicians Act of 2023” (H.R.6683). This critical legislation aims to halt the impending cuts set to take effect on January 1, 2024.

Your voice is essential in this fight. By reaching out to your Representatives and urging them to support H.R.6683, you can play a pivotal role in this crucial matter. Adding your voice to this cause is straightforward; visit Find Your Representative and send an email to your local representatives, advocating for their support of H.R.6683 in the upcoming legislative package.

This is not just about preventing a -3.4% cut to Medicare services; it’s about safeguarding the accessibility and quality of healthcare for countless individuals. Your action can make a tangible difference. Let’s unite and ensure that our legislators hear our collective voice, emphasizing the necessity of supporting this bill in the House. Together, we have the power to influence and make a positive change in the healthcare system.