Comment on CMS-2026-2377-0002

As your constituent, I am writing to ask for your help protecting Medicare patients’ access to dermatologic care in our community. I work in a dermatology practice that cares for Medicare patients every day. I am a medical receptionist. I see firsthand what it takes to help our patients receive timely care—from answering phone calls and scheduling appointments to coordinating follow-up care, and helping patients navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system. Many of our Medicare patients have been with our practice for years. We know them by name, understand their medical histories, and appreciate the challenges many face. Some travel long distances for care. Many rely on family members for transportation, live on fixed incomes, or have difficulty returning for multiple appointments. One of the greatest advantages we can offer these patients is the ability to evaluate and treat problems during the same visit whenever it is medically appropriate. If a suspicious mole is found, it can often be biopsied immediately. If a painful or precancerous lesion requires treatment, it can frequently be addressed that same day. This approach reduces travel, minimizes anxiety, speeds diagnosis, and helps patients receive the care they need without unnecessary delays. The proposed CY 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule threatens this model of care. CMS estimates the proposal would reduce overall Medicare payments to dermatology by approximately 10%. The effects of these proposed cuts extend well beyond physicians. They create pressure on staffing, appointment availability, and the ability of community practices to continue caring for Medicare patients in the efficient manner they have come to expect. We are concerned that these changes could make it more difficult for seniors to obtain timely appointments and receive evaluation and treatment during a single visit. I respectfully ask that you work with CMS leadership to protect access to care by urging CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz and agency leadership to withdraw the proposed 50% payment reduction for medically necessary same-day evaluation and management services reported with Modifier 25. Our Medicare patients deserve timely, efficient, high-quality care close to home. I hope you will advocate on their behalf and help ensure these proposed policies do not unintentionally reduce access to the dermatologic care they depend on. Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration of this important issue. Sincerely, Summer Hardcastle Medical Receptionist Epiphany Dermatology Charleston, South Carolina