APMA Urges Senate to Cut Red Tape and Protect Seniors

APMA recently submitted testimony to the Senate Committee on Aging for its hearing titled "The Doctor Is Out How Washington's Rules Drove Physicians Out of Medicine," highlighting how excessive prior authorization requirements in Medicare Advantage are delaying care and increasing administrative burdens for podiatrists. Repeated approvals, opaque decision making, and lengthy appeals slow treatment for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, fractures, and other serious conditions: This raises the risk of infection, hospitalization, and amputation. APMA is urging Congress to pass the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act to streamline and modernize the process.

APMA also called for updates to the Medicare Therapeutic Shoes for Patients with Diabetes program. Although this benefit is proven to prevent ulcers and amputations, outdated documentation requirements often cause months long delays. Modernizing these rules will help ensure seniors receive timely, limb-saving care while reducing unnecessary red tape for physicians.

Contact the APMA Advocacy Department with any questions at [email protected].