The NCMS and other state medical societies were asked this week to continue seeking signatures for the Stop the Medicare Meltdown petition led by the Texas Medical Association (TMA). The campaign would be extended through the August Congressional recess, as lawmakers continue to apply only temporary fixes to delay the scheduled cuts to Medicare physician payments. TMA is currently assessing the campaign and is expected to proposed additional steps when participating organizations hold a conference call next week.

Physicians are urged to sign the petition and ask their patients to join the campaign, too. A patient flyer is available to explain the importance of replacing the flawed sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula used to determine Medicare physician payments.

Update on Extenders Legislation

The AMA reported this week that the Senate Extenders Bill includes a 2.2 percent update to physician payment rates for the remainder of 2010 and an additional 1 percent update for 2011. The language appears to be the same as the House-passed extenders package. In 2012, physicians would face a 33% cut in Medicare payment rates. This provision is estimated to cost $22.9 billion over ten years. Senate consideration is not expected before early next week.

Click here to contact your Representatives and Senators and ask them to permanently fix the SGR.