The November general election is just days away, making now the time to prepare to vote. This year’s ballot includes not only the presidential race but also crucial federal, state, and local elections as well as propositions and referendums in some states. These soon-to-be elected officials will play a key role in shaping healthcare policy. As a healthcare advocate, being an educated voter means understanding who’s running, what they stand for, and how their views impact our healthcare system. Critical decisions on issues like Medicare reimbursement rates and Medicaid funding rest in the hands of those we elect at every level, making it essential to cast an informed vote all the way down the ballot.   

Medicare reimbursement rates are at a tipping point, with this year’s cuts marking the fifth consecutive decrease and a 29 percent reduction since 2001 when adjusted for inflation. Meanwhile, the cost of running a healthcare practice has risen by 47 percent, placing practices under significant financial strain. Without fair compensation, the physician shortage – projected to reach 86,000 by 2036 – will only worsen, threatening patient access to care. Voting down the ballot is essential to electing leaders who understand the financial realities of healthcare, the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS), and the urgent need to align reimbursement rates with rising costs and inflation.  

Take action now by contacting your lawmakers to urge them to stop the cuts to the Medicare PFS to protect the future of healthcare.  

For resources to inform your vote, visit our Election Center, where you can review candidates and locate your polling place. For deeper insight into these critical issues, tune in to our latest Zotec Answers podcast episode.  

Your voice has the power to influence the future of healthcare – use it on Election Day.