Comment on CMS-2026-1256-0002

Summary: The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) opposes the proposed CJR-X model, arguing that it is too aggressive for many providers, lacks sufficient risk adjustment, and excludes physicians from leadership and shared savings. They also advocate for including Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) in the TEAM model and request a revision of the DRG grouping methodology for joint infections to ensure accurate reimbursement for revision procedures.