The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons welcomed CMS’ decision to scale back proposed Medicare payment cuts for several orthopedic procedures but called for broader physician payment reform.
The agency reduced proposed cuts to total knee arthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty and shoulder hemiarthroplasty by nearly 50% in its final calendar year 2027 Physician Fee Schedule, according to a Nov. 4 news release.
“Today’s decision represents meaningful progress for patients and the physicians who care for them,” AAOS President Wilford Gibson, MD, said.
The association said CMS shifted course after physicians, medical societies and lawmakers raised concerns about the proposal’s effect on patient access and physician practices. Dr. Gibson also thanked lawmakers who raised awareness of the potential effects on independent practices and those serving rural or underserved communities.
However, the association warned that the remaining cuts could worsen workforce shortages and create additional barriers to care. More than 22 million Americans live in 1,400-plus U.S. counties without an orthopedic surgeon, AAOS said.
Dr. Gibson said AAOS will continue working with CMS and Congress to advance broader Medicare physician payment reform. The final rule takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.
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