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Sound payment policies ensure better patient access to care.
At a time when demand for physical therapy is growing, and despite a wealth of evidence that physical therapy helps patients achieve better health outcomes delivered in a collaborative, patient-centered environment, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is attempting to make adjustments in Medicare Part B payment by reducing fee schedule reimbursement for codes tied to physical therapy. These reductions, planned for 2021, could result in an estimated 8% decrease in payment.
Why It Matters
A payment environment that's unlivable for physical therapists means that Medicare beneficiaries won't be able to access the care they need, when they need it. It's that simple.
Our position
APTA strenuously opposes any attempt to reduce payment for physical therapy under Medicare. We view the planned cut from CMS as a dangerous and shortsighted move that will harm patients and shutter clinic doors.
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