March 6, 2025 | Sacramento, CA — MedLegalNews.com — Stop Medicare Cuts: With less than two weeks to prevent a federal government shutdown, bipartisan negotiations have stalled. As a result, Congressional leaders are now working on a temporary spending bill that would fund the government at current levels through the end of 2025.
The California Medical Association (CMA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) are calling on Congress to include HR 879, Stop Medicare Cuts“The Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act” in this legislative package. This bill would halt the 2.8% Medicare physician payment cut that took effect on January 1 and provide a 2% payment increase to support struggling practices.
Medicare Payment Fix at Risk
House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated that he prefers a “clean” continuing resolution, which would exclude the Medicare payment fix since it requires additional federal funding. However, physicians cannot afford another cut, and patient access to care is at risk. Congress must hear from doctors nationwide that Medicare stability is a top priority.
Telehealth Waivers and Other Expiring Programs in Jeopardy
Several critical health care programs are set to expire on March 31, 2025, including:
- Teaching Health Center primary care graduate medical education program
- National Health Service Corps
- Pandemic-era telehealth waivers
While these programs have broad bipartisan support, the ongoing political gridlock is creating uncertainty. CMA and AMA are pushing for the continuation of telehealth waivers, which have expanded access to care—especially in rural communities where physician shortages remain a challenge.
Take Action Now!
Physicians must act to protect their patients and practices.
Contact your Members of Congress today through the AMA’s Physicians Grassroots Network and urge them to:
Stop the Medicare payment cuts
Extend the telehealth waivers
While the sample letter provided focuses on Medicare, we strongly encourage you to add a personal note emphasizing the importance of preserving telehealth access.
Click here to take action now.
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FAQs: Stop Medicare Cuts and Telehealth Waivers
Why are physicians urging Congress to stop Medicare cuts?
Physicians warn that failing to stop Medicare cuts will reduce payment rates, making it harder for seniors to access care and forcing some clinics to limit services.
How do Medicare cuts affect patient access to care?
Medicare cuts can lead to fewer available physicians, longer wait times, and reduced access for seniors and patients in rural areas.
What role do telehealth waivers play in this issue?
Telehealth waivers expanded patient access during the pandemic, and extending them alongside efforts to stop Medicare cuts ensures continued care in underserved regions.
How can healthcare professionals take action to stop Medicare cuts?
Doctors can contact their Members of Congress and support HR 879, which aims to stop Medicare cuts and stabilize physician payment rates.