As 2024 comes to a close, therapy providers face a critical challenge: the expiration of telehealth reimbursement cuts outlined in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) Final Rule for CY 2025. Without Congressional intervention by December 20, 2024, telehealth services used since the COVID-19 public health emergency will expire on December 31, 2024, jeopardizing access to care for millions.
The Reimbursement Challenge
The CY 2025 PFS final rule imposes a 2.83% reduction in Medicare reimbursement for physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. Combined with prior telehealth reimbursement cuts, therapy providers have endured a nearly 40% reduction since 2011. These drastic reductions, compounded by staffing shortages and inflation, threaten the financial stability of therapy practices and reduce beneficiaries’ access to critical services.
Why Telehealth Matters
Telehealth has revolutionized therapy delivery, particularly for rural or underserved populations. However, with the flexibilities set to expire, many providers and patients could lose this vital option. Extending telehealth flexibilities is essential to maintaining continuity of care and ensuring providers can meet demand.
Advocate Against Telehealth Reimbursement Cuts
Advocates are urging Congress to pass The Expanded Telehealth Access Act (H.R. 3875/S. 2880) to extend telehealth flexibilities and to take decisive action against PFS payment cuts. Without these measures, therapy providers face unsustainable financial pressures, and patients risk losing access to necessary services.
How You Can Help
- Contact Your Legislators: Advocate for support of H.R. 3875/S. 2880 and for relief from the CY 2025 cuts.
- Share Your Story: Highlight how these changes impact your practice or the care you provide.
- Join the Advocacy Movement: Partner with professional organizations to amplify your voice and ensure Congress understands the importance of rehabilitation therapy services.
Time is running out. Join Infinity Rehab and take action by December 20, 2024, to protect access to therapy services and preserve telehealth for the future.
For more information or tools to contact your representatives, visit advocacy resources provided by professional therapy organizations or use legislative action tools.
