AAHKS strongly opposes CMS’s final rule released Nov. 4 moving forward with major cuts for Medicare surgical fee payments for hip and knee replacement in 2027. These latest cuts follow a reduction of more than 7% this year. These punishing reductions come despite evidence that hip and knee surgeons are doing more work, not less, improving patients’ outcomes and reducing overall costs by reducing the need for patients to stay in the hospital. For independent medical practices already facing mounting financial pressures, these reductions will accelerate practice closures and consolidation, leaving patients with fewer choices, longer wait times and higher healthcare costs. AAHKS continues to urge Congress advance an objective and sustainable approach to Medicare physician payment that protects patient choice and preserves access to high-quality hip and knee replacement care. Read AAHKS’ press release regarding the cuts and the one-page guide to see how they may affect your practice. Â