American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Statement on Cuts to Cancer Care in 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

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American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Statement on Cuts to Cancer Care in 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 30, 2009

CONTACT: Jenny Heumann
202-997-1349 (cell)
jenny.heumann@asco.org

Dan Sweet
571-483-1355
dan.sweet@asco.org

Below is a statement for attribution to ASCO CEO Allen S. Lichter, MD:

“Today, CMS issued its physician fee schedule for 2010. The schedule included a one percent cut to oncology services in 2010, part of an overall six percent reduction in reimbursement for cancer care over the next four years. We are deeply concerned that these cuts will continue to erode access to cancer care in the United States.

“The cumulative effect of previous cuts has already caused oncologists to close practices, consolidate locations, and turn away Medicare patients. Further reductions will jeopardize access to care for more people with cancer across the country. Oncology cannot sustain additional cuts at a time when the number of people with cancer is increasing, practice expenses continue to rise, and the oncology workforce is dwindling.”

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ASCO’s fee schedule fact sheet summarizes how cuts in Medicare coverage to date have already affected patient care, forcing physicians to close practices, consolidate locations, and turn away Medicare patients.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is the world’s leading professional organization representing physicians who care for people with cancer. With more than 27,000 members, ASCO is committed to improving cancer care through scientific meetings, educational programs and peer-reviewed journals. For ASCO information and resources, visit www.asco.org/presscenter. Patient-oriented cancer information is available at www.cancer.net.