The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are moving Phosphate Lowering Therapies (PLTs) within the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) payment bundle on January 1, 2025. This policy change threatens to exacerbate disparities in kidney care, particularly for minoritized populations who are already disproportionately affected by kidney disease. 

PLTs play a crucial role in managing elevated blood phosphorus levels, a frequent challenge for patients with kidney failure. If left unaddressed, high phosphorus levels can result in serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, bone fractures, and even increased mortality. By including PLTs in the ESRD payment bundle, CMS is interfering in decision making between patients and providers. This change risks restricting access to vital medications and undermining the personalized care that dialysis patients desperately need.

A substantial percentage of dialysis patients are African American, Hispanic, and Native American, populations that already experience significant health inequities. Reducing access to PLTs would disproportionately affect these communities, exacerbating their existing challenges. Many minority patients, especially those with low incomes, depend on affordable, phosphorus-rich processed foods, making PLTs essential for effective management of their condition. CMS' proposed changes could severely limit patient access to these life-saving medications and worsen their health outcomes.

The Kidney PATIENT Act (H.R. 5074/S.4510) delays CMS from adding PLTs to the ESRD bundle and protects your patients' access to innovative treatment. By supporting the Kidney PATIENT Act, you are not only championing the needs of your patients but also enhancing the overall quality of lifesaving kidney care, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and a stronger, more equitable healthcare system. Urge your members of Congress to support the Kidney PATIENT Act and protect access to innovative care for all Americans with chronic kidney disease.