This month, physicians again face the possibility of a 21% cut in Medicare payment. Within the U.S. House of Representatives, leaders of both the Democratic and Republican parties are currently negotiating how to best handle the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR), the product of a 1997 bill which aimed to control Medicare spending for physician care. To stifle the looming payment cut, lawmakers must act by March 31 to offset the SGR cost through a temporary patch or permanent fix.  

Since its onset in 1997, the SGR has been temporarily patched 17 times. If allowed to take effect, the SGR will prove to have irreparable consequences for physicians and their families. Whether through yet another delay or through a holistic repeal of the policy, Congress must act to protect fair payment for quality care. 

The AASM aims to aid physicians in proactive grassroots advocacy efforts. Through your hands-on participation, congress must be made aware of the crippling ramifications of the Medicare SGR.  Sign the AASM’s letter and contact your House and Senate representatives today.