Ear, Nose, And Throat Physicians Hail Efforts Of Congress To Pass Medicare Legislation

Main Category: Medicare / Medicaid / SCHIP
Also Included In: Ear, Nose and Throat
Article Date: 11 Jul 2008 - 15:00 PST

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The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) applauds the efforts of the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives to preserve access to quality healthcare for the nation's seniors and veterans by halting cuts to physicians' Medicare payments. By overwhelmingly passing H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, Congress has sent a strong message to President Bush that preserving Medicare is a critical priority for our nation.

The AAO-HNS is also humbled and grateful for the critical role played by Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) in helping this bill pass in the U.S. Senate. Sen. Kennedy has long staked his reputation on ensuring that healthcare remains a priority in the Senate, and his dramatic appearance on the Senate floor to cast the decisive vote hammered home the importance of ensuring critical access to healthcare for our nation's seniors and veterans.

H.R. 6331 halts a 10.6 percent cut to physician Medicare payments that took effect July 1, 2008. It also provides a 1.1 percent positive update for 2009, ensuring that physicians who see Medicare patients can continue to provide seniors with access to quality healthcare.

The AAO-HNS now urges President Bush to immediately sign H.R. 6331 into law and join Congress in supporting physicians and the patients they treat.

About the AAO-HNS

The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's mission: "Working for the Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Care."

American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery