News and views on the regulatory, legislative, and political issues impacting ophthalmology in Washington, D.C., and around the United States
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2027 Fee Schedule Proposes Cutting Pay to Physicians by 1.68%
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released its proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2027. Here are the highlights based on the Academy’s analysis. The Academy will work with our advocacy partners to ensure finalized policies support our members and their patients.
Bipartisan Bill Would Stabilize Medicare Physician Payments
The Academy supports the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act, which would provide essential updates to the Medicare payment system.
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April 8, 2026
AI Screening Gains Congressional Attention
A successful clinical pilot in Delaware has provided a potential roadmap for improving eye care across the country, utilizing autonomous AI.
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April 8, 2026
New Hampshire Legislature Sustains Governor’s Veto on Optometric Surgery
An attempt to override Gov. Ayotte’s veto of HB 349 failed, meaning the bill is now officially dead.
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April 8, 2026
Ophthalmology Groups and AMA Urge CMS to Clarify Modifier -25 Use for Intravitreal Injections, Pause Audits
Here’s the latest in our push for CMS to fix conflicting coding guidance that could limit Medicare patients' access to critical retinal treatments.
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April 1, 2026
Medicare Administrative Contractors Drop New Proposed Botulinum Toxin Policies
Four MACs made unexpected revisions to the policies that were finalized in January 2026, adding Xeomin dosage guidance for blepharospasm.
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April 1, 2026
Advocacy Works: New Hampshire Governor Vetoes Optometric Surgery Bill
For the third straight year, New Hampshire ophthalmologists have successfully defended safe eye surgery.
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April 1, 2026
Tennessee Laser Surgery Bill
A dangerous new laser surgery bill, Senate Bill 2076/House Bill 1952, was introduced in the Tennessee legislature.
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April 1, 2026
Eye Surgery Surgery Bill Advances in Vermont Senate
Stay updated with the latest information on threats to safe eye surgery in Vermont.
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April 1, 2026
Advocacy Works: CMS Rescinds Proposal to Remove Diabetes Eye Exam Measure in MA Star Ratings
Following sustained advocacy from the Academy, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rescinded its proposal to remove the diabetes care eye exam measure from the Medicare Advantage Star Ratings Program.
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April 1, 2026
CMS Finalizes Rule Requiring Electronic Submission of Claims Attachments
The new rule will significantly change how health care providers submit clinical documentation to support insurance claims.