There’s no question that the physician shortage exists and is worsening. However, understanding the reasons behind the crisis requires a deeper look. While multiple factors contribute, one critical yet often overlooked issue is the financial strain imposed by Medicare payment cuts. This week, the Texas Medical Association (TMA) and Physician Advocacy Institute (PAI) emphasized that without sustainable rates, many physicians are forced to abandon independent practice, retire early, or leave medicine altogether – further exacerbating the shortage and limiting access to care. This creates the perfect storm: too few physicians, inadequate physician reimbursement, and an increasing number of patients seeking care as the population ages nationwide.  

Despite rising costs and inflation, Medicare physician reimbursement has declined by 33% since 2001 when adjusted for inflation. This financial imbalance not only threatens the viability of physician practices but also fuels widespread physician burnout. If left unaddressed, these conditions will continue driving physicians away from practicing, further reducing patients’ access to high-quality healthcare. 

To tackle this issue, we are urging Congress to cosponsor and support H.R. 879. The House of Representatives passed a budget this week that doesn’t contain any provisions for addressing the MPFS. H.R. 879 has the necessary language to remedy that. This legislation contains crucial provisions aimed at stopping the 2.83% Medicare reimbursement cut and implementing a 2% increase to help offset inflation.  

If you’ve already taken action, thank you! If not, now’s the time to make your voice heard.  Contact your representatives today and advocate for meaningful reform to protect the future of healthcare.  

Take action today! On the go? Simply text ZPFIX to 50457 to take action. 

For valuable insights into the challenges facing physicians, listen to our latest episode of Zotec Answers.