Policy Positions

ASCRS is the voice of anterior segment surgeons in meetings with federal agencies and on Capitol Hill. ASCRS is actively engaged in a variety of policy issues to ensure that our members can continue to provide quality care to their patients.

ASCRS Priority Issues

Medicare Payment

ASCRS continues to advocate for fair reimbursement for ophthalmic procedures. We urge Congress to stop the impending cuts scheduled to take effect next year. Additionally, we urge for Medicare payment reform by providing a positive annual update reflecting inflation in practice costs, and eliminating budget neutrality requirements in the fee schedule.

E/M 10- and 90-day Global Surgery Codes

ASCRS is working with the surgical community advocating that Congress should direct the CMS to adjust the values of the E/M post-operative visits included in 10-day and 90-day global surgical codes to reflect the updated office/outpatient E/M code payment increases that were implemented on January 1, 2021.

Prior Authorization

ASCRS continues to urge CMS to use its oversight authority to ensure that Medicare Advantage plans are not inappropriately delaying or denying beneficiaries access to medically necessary cataract surgery. Additionally, ASCRS supports legislation that would reduce the burdens associated with prior authorization.

Ophthalmic Drug and Devices

ASCRS advocates to ensure our members and their patients have timely access to innovative drugs and devices and compounded medications. Additionally, ASCRS is also in the process of responding to the FDA's problematic LASIK Lasers – Patient Labeling Recommendations draft guidance.

Advocacy

ASCRS advocates on a variety of policy issues. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact ASCRS Government Relations at 703-591-2220.