Physicians Bring Medicare Same-Day Care Concerns to Congress

American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Urge Lawmakers to Protect Seniors' Access to Timely Care

WASHINGTON, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Physicians and patient advocates went to Capitol Hill Wednesday with a warning for Congress: A proposed Medicare payment change must be withdrawn to ensure seniors can get needed care in a single visit.

For Eugene Brown III, MD, RPh, the concern is deeply personal. One of his patients was home undergoing cancer treatment as he and more than 15 other physicians met with congressional offices to share patient stories from across the country.

Earlier this year, the 66-year-old South Carolina woman came to Dr. Brown after weeks of severe sinus symptoms. Her left nostril was completely blocked, and Dr. Brown—an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist and president of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery—saw her right away.

Because his practice had imaging, equipment, and staff on site, he performed a CT scan and biopsy during the same appointment.

The results confirmed cancer, allowing her to begin treatment without delay.

"I was suffering with the pressure and pain. Try breathing out of one nostril while it constantly runs for weeks. I was exhausted," said the patient, who is undergoing chemotherapy. "To me, timely care means being seen quickly and having a doctor who has the resources to act. Everyone should feel like the first priority, just as I did with Dr. Brown and his team."

Physicians say cases like hers show why Medicare should support same-day care, rather than penalize it. They warn that the proposal would add new financial pressures to practices already facing significant payment challenges.

The Details That Will Disrupt Care

More than 15 physicians with the AAO-HNS joined the Same Day Care Coalition's Advocacy Day to urge lawmakers to call for the withdrawal of the proposed same-day care payment policy.  Under the plan, Medicare would pay the highest-valued service at 100%. Payment for most additional services provided during the same visit would be paid at 50%.

A survey of more than 1,400 otolaryngologists found widespread concern about the impact on patients and medical practices:

• More than two-thirds—67%—said the proposal would force them to see fewer Medicare patients
• More than 14% said they would have to stop accepting Medicare altogether.
• More than 84% said it could mean longer waits, fewer referral options, and more difficulty getting timely specialty care.

If finalized, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services proposed change could take effect January 1. The Same Day Care Coalition is asking CMS to provide the data behind the proposal and fully assess its impact on patients.

More Than Just Another Cut

"I'm losing sleep over what this new system could mean for seniors," Dr. Brown said. "I'm deeply concerned they won't have the access to care they rely on—and about what that means for the future of senior care in the United States. Practices, especially in rural areas, are already stretched to the limit. They can't absorb more cuts."

Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, executive vice president and CEO of the AAO-HNS and founding coalition member, said the issue comes down to what patients and caregivers need.

"For patients, same-day care means fewer trips to the doctor, faster answers, and less time worrying about what's next," Dr. Shah said. "We chose this profession to care for patients. When time matters, Medicare should clear the way, not stand in it."

About the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery

The AAO-HNS represents approximately 13,000 physicians and other professionals who treat the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeons diagnose and treat conditions affecting patients of all ages and help people breathe, hear, speak, sleep, swallow, and connect with the world.

Together, the Academy and its Foundation advance the specialty through education, research, quality improvement, advocacy, humanitarian programs, and initiatives that shape the future of patient care.

SOURCE The American Academy of Otolaryngology