Encouraging lawmakers to pass legislation and promote policies that positively affect rheumatologists, rheumatology care teams and those living with rheumatic disease is one of the most impactful ways the ACR advances its mission. The role of advocacy has never been more critical than in recent months, when we have seen an unprecedented number of executive…
In comments to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the ACR outlined several recommendations for a proposed state model law addressing the use of artificial intelligence in the insurance industry.
On July 1, Aetna launched its new Combined Benefit Management Drug List, effectively moving romosozumab-aqqg (Evenity) and infliximab (Remicade) to pharmacy-only coverage for most fully insured commercial plans. The ACR has contacted Aetna leaders to raise concerns about patient access to these therapies.
An ACR-led resolution that calls for the protection of NIH funding and the ability to negotiate indirect costs will become AMA policy, along with several other resolutions supported by the ACR.
Issues discussed at a meeting with the Office of Management & Budget included increasing Medicare reimbursement for physicians, telemedicine permanence, removing G2211 restrictions, adequate reimbursement for therapies and more flexibility for chemotherapy administration codes. The proposed rule is currently under review by the OMB, which is usually the last step prior to releasing publicly for stakeholder review and comment.
For decades, the U.S. has served as a beacon to the international scientific community. With drastic cuts to scientific investment proposed and implemented, the U.S. stands to lose not only immigrants considering careers in research, but also homegrown scientists. Christina Downey, MD, reflects on the cuts and invites members to be part of the solution.
In response to agency requests for feedback on how to streamline regulations and reduce administrative burden on Medicare program stakeholders and small business owners, the ACR called for the removal of certain regulations related to prior authorization, pharmacy benefit managers and Medicare Part B and Part D access.
Aetna recently notified practices about the launch of its Combined Benefit Management Drug List, which will result in romosozumab-aqqg (Evenity) and infliximab (Remicade) moving to pharmacy-only coverage on July 1. The ACR is working to oppose this change.
As in past administrations, members of the Executive Committee scheduled meetings with leaders of the Food & Drug Administration and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to discuss ACR policy priorities and agency agendas.
The May 6 event brought together patients, physicians and advocates to challenge misconceptions and advocate for sustained investment in rheumatology research.