WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Four Japanese electric and electronic (E&E) industrial associations submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice addressing the adverse effects of certain state laws on interstate commerce and the national economy. The associations express their concerns regarding inconsistencies in state regulations that impose unnecessary burdens on businesses. The letter emphasizes the commitment of these associations to comply with energy efficiency and chemical regulations in the United States and other marke more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Four state attorneys general have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service requesting an extension of the comment period regarding the proposed rescission of the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule. The comment period, which is set to end on September 19, 2025, is described by the state officials as uncharacteristically short, totaling only 21 days for the public to respond to a proposal they consider to have substantial implications for land conservation. The letter argues more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- A coalition of seven independent philanthropists has expressed their support for provisions in the Calendar Year 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) in a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The organizations argue that improved valuation and payment for primary care services is essential for promoting better health outcomes among Americans. The letter emphasizes the crucial role primary care plays in the U.S. health system, noting  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Abbott Laboratories has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the proposed changes in the Medicare hospital outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) and ambulatory surgical center (ASC) payment systems for calendar year 2026. The organization emphasizes the need for decisions that promote equitable beneficiary access to healthcare innovations and better health outcomes. In its letter, Abbott raises concerns about CMS's transparency regarding the assignment more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- ACIST Medical Systems Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for critical changes in the Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment methodologies. The company emphasizes the need for coding adjustments that would enhance beneficiary access to safe and effective angiography procedures utilizing automated variable rate contrast injectors with mu more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing the safety interests of over 80,000 aviation professionals across 43 airlines in the U.S. and Canada, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation regarding an important update related to The Boeing Company's airplanes. The letter supports the revision of Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2025-15-07, which supersedes a previous directive that addressed safety measures for several Boeing 747 models. The FAA's action revises the earlier dire more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Alcon, a global leader in eye care, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concerns over proposed revisions to the Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment (Proposed Rule) for the year 2026. The Fort Worth, Texas-based company emphasizes the need for the agency to reevaluate reimbursement strategies for cataract procedures to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries continue to receive timely surgical care. The proposed adjustments include a 6.9 percent d more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Alcona HealthCenters, Alpena, Michigan, has submitted a public comment letter to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) expressing serious concerns regarding recent changes to the committee's membership, staffing, and decision-making protocols. The letter highlights the potential risks these alterations pose to public trust in vaccines and the health of communities nationwide. The letter asserts that recent deviations from established review protocols have raised alarm bells. The dismissal of all sevent more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Alliance of Safety-Net Hospitals (ASH) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding proposed changes to the outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) and associated quality reporting programs. The commentary arrived in response to a proposed rule published in July that outlines plans affecting hospital payment rates and services provided to underserved communities. In its letter, ASH emphasized the critical role safety-net hospitals play in the healthcare s more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concerns about proposals outlined in the Calendar Year 2026 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System Proposed Rule. The letter highlights two key issues: the proposal to use Medicare Advantage (MA) negotiated rates to set fee-for-service (FFS) payment rates, and the expansion of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions in  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, East Providence, Rhode Island, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed changes to the Outpatient Prospective Payment System for Calendar Year 2026. The organization represents specialists in addiction psychiatry, emphasizing the need for improved payment structures for community mental health centers (CMHCs) that offer partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. In the wake of a growing more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing apprehensions regarding proposed changes to Medicare and Medicaid payment policies for the calendar year 2026. The AAP's letter advocates for reconsidering several facets of these policies, with a focus on ensuring the health and well-being of children and adolescents. The AAP's comments center around the implication of proposed effic more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing concerns and recommendations related to the proposed Calendar Year 2026 Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) rule. The association, established in 1985, represents a diverse group of health care professionals dedicated to improving the lives of patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders. In their letter, AAC more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing serious concerns about proposed changes to employer eligibility under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization warns that these alterations may introduce unacceptable uncertainty to a critical program for sustaining the teaching workforce in the United States. In its letter, AACTE emphasizes that teaching ranks among the lowest-paid professions r more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for crucial changes in policies that would empower nurse practitioners (NPs) and improve healthcare access for patients. Emphasizing the importance of supporting NPs in delivering care, the AANP represents over 431,000 healthcare professionals across the United States. The letter applauds CMS's focus on enhancing the nat more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing its concerns regarding various provisions in the proposed rule regarding the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) for Calendar Year 2026. The letter emphasizes the implications of new payment structures on patient care and cardiovascular services. In its comments, the ACC highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate reimbursement rates for diagnostic radio more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Eye Surgery Center in Athens, Georgia, has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing concern over the proposed "cost-of-living" update for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). The facility reports that approximately 80% of its patients are Medicare beneficiaries and warns that the suggested reduction in cataract facility fees poses a significant threat to their ability to provide quality care. The letter highlights that the proposed update fails to reflect the r more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) detailing concerns regarding proposed changes in the Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) for fiscal year 2026. This letter highlights potential negative impacts on patient access to critical therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) gene therapies. ASTCT, representing over 3,900 healthcare profe more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Society of Hematology (ASH) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urging the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to maintain the current child and adolescent vaccine schedule. The letter emphasizes the critical role vaccinations play in protecting vulnerable populations, particularly for individuals suffering from hematologic disorders. ASH represents over 18,000 clinicians and scientists ded more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing serious concerns regarding the proposed changes to payment policies under the Physician Fee Schedule for the 2026 calendar year. Representatives from ASIPP, which advocates for interventional pain management practices across 49 states and Puerto Rico, urge CMS to reconsider provisions that they believe could significantly disa more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ASPN) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urging the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to retain the current vaccination schedule for children and adolescents. The organization emphasizes the importance of this schedule for protecting children suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD). Founded in 1969, ASPN represents over 700 pediatric nephrologists throughout North America, advocating for optimal more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The American Thoracic Society, New York, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urging the retention of critical child and adolescent vaccine recommendations made by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) in February 2025. The ATS, representing over 30,000 members dedicated to respiratory health, emphasizes the importance of routine vaccinations for young patients with pulmonary conditions, who face heightened risks from preventable diseases. In its more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Anatomy IT has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing concerns regarding the 2026 Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality Reporting Program (ASCQR). The organization, which supports over 1,000 clinicians in quality compliance across the nation, emphasizes the potential negative impact of certain proposed changes in the ASCQR program. In its letter, AIT expressed appreciation for the diligence behind the proposed rule but highlighted critical concerns related to pati more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Association of Public Health Laboratories submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing concerns regarding the proposed changes in the CY 2026 Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule. APHL, which works to strengthen laboratory systems for public health monitoring and disease detection, highlighted several issues within the proposed rules that could impact the effectiveness of public health reporting. One of the main issues addressed by APHL in its letter is  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Applied Biologics, Scottsdale, Arizona, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, expressing concerns over proposed changes to the payment system for skin substitute products. The company, which specializes in regenerative medicine, argues that the new payment and clinical evidence requirements may limit patient access to vital treatments for chronic, non-healing wounds. The ongoing proposal, part of the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System, seeks more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Association for Behavioral Healthcare (ABH) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) emphasizing the urgent need to enhance access to mental health and substance use services for Medicare beneficiaries. Representing over eighty community-based organizations, ABH serves an estimated 81,000 residents daily and over 1.5 million annually across Massachusetts, relying heavily on public payers like Medicare for funding. In the letter, ABH expressed appreciation for advanc more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Association of Cancer Care Centers, Minneapolis, Minnesota, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regarding the proposed payment adjustments under the calendar year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System (ACS). The letter raises serious concerns about the potential impacts of recent proposals on cancer care providers and their patients across the nation. In the letter, ACCC emphasizes the importance  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Avenda Health, a digital health company specializing in AI-driven solutions for prostate cancer care, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concerns over a proposed payment reduction for the Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) 5724. The company argues that this reduction could adversely affect access to its innovative treatment technology, Unfold AI, which has recently gained FDA clearance for supporting pros more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Bioventus LLC has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing concerns related to the proposed rule for the 2026 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment systems. The letter, sent on September 12, outlines the company's position on two key issues affecting their products and healthcare providers. Bioventus, a global medical technology company headqua more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing key provisions in the proposed rule for the Calendar Year 2026 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System. In its comments, BPC highlights its commitment to promoting a more effective and sustainable health care system in the United States. As an organization known for its bipartisa more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the Proposed Rule for the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems. BCBSA, representing 33 independent health plans covering a substantial portion of the U.S. population, expressed its endorsement of numerous provisions aimed at enhancing the quality and value of Medica more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urging for key adjustments to the proposed rules for the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems. The company highlighted its commitment to advancing patient care through innovative medical solutions while emphasizing the crucial role of Medicare policies that enhance access to eff more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The CardioVascular Coalition (CVC) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing crucial concerns regarding the proposed CY 2026 Hospital Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgical Center Prospective Payment System. The organization emphasizes the need for proper reimbursement structures that maintain quality care for patients dealing with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD). In its comments, the CVC more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- CARTI Cancer Center, a nonprofit oncology provider based in Arkansas, submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed rule for the Calendar Year 2026 Physician Fee Schedule. In its submission, CARTI praised CMS for initiatives promoting telehealth and other flexibility options vital for healthcare access, especially in rural regions. However, the organization expressed concerns about three specific areas: geographic indexing in Arkansas, the interaction of A more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Centre for Health Science and Law (CHSL) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pushing for comprehensive reforms in the regulation of infant formula. This follows concerns over the safety and marketing practices surrounding infant formula, particularly in light of the organization's stated commitment to uphold World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and provide better protections for infants. In its letter, CHSL emphasized the  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Children's Hospital Association (CHA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration advocating for stronger regulations concerning infant formula nutrient requirements. The association's letter, dated September 11, outlined several key recommendations aimed at improving the safety and nutritional quality of infant formula in the U.S. In its comments, CHA applauded the FDA for its initiative to update the nutrient review process for infant formu more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- City of Hope submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing its apprehensions regarding proposed changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) for 2026. The renowned cancer care and research organization highlighted concerns that the proposed policies might inadvertently impact high-quality cancer care for Medicare beneficiaries. City of Hope, based in Duarte, California, noted that it has achieved the highest design more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Wolters Kluwer, a global provider of clinical technology and evidence-based solutions, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding their proposed rule updating the Physician Fee Schedule and Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for calendar year 2026. The organization, which reported annual revenues of $6.4 billion in 2024, advocates for improvements in data quality and completeness to enhance public health outcomes through Medicare's reporting systems.  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Committee to Protect Health Care has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), advocating for reforms to address site-of-service payment disparities within the Medicare program. The organization, a national coalition of physicians focused on advancing patient-centered healthcare policies, expressed support for proposals aimed at curbing unnecessary increases in outpatient service volumes resulting from current payment structures. In the letter, the Committee outlined co more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Pharmacists Association Foundation has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services addressing proposed updates to the Medicare and Medicaid Programs, particularly those affecting the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program. In their correspondence, the Foundation expressed both support and concerns regarding the implementation of these pivotal changes. The Foundation highlighted its long-standing involvement in the MDPP, noting its success in reaching nearly 5,000 partic more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Cook Medical, a manufacturer of diagnostic and therapeutic medical products, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding their Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) for calendar year 2026. In the letter, Cook outlines concerns and recommendations related to the reimbursement policies that impact the adoption and accessibility of innovative medical procedures. The letter highlights the importance of refi more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The COPD Foundation has submitted a public comment letter to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, urging for enhancements in vaccine access for individuals living with chronic lung diseases. Representing over 16 million Americans diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and many others at risk, the Foundation emphasized the vital role of vaccinations in preventing severe health complications. In the letter, the Foundation expressed  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Corewell Health, a nonprofit hospital system based in Michigan, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding proposed changes to payment structures affecting outpatient services for the Calendar Year 2026. The letter outlines significant concerns over the potential economic impact of these proposals on rural hospitals and health care delivery models. The agency's proposed adjustments include a baseline rate increase of 2.4% for the Outpatient Prospective Payment  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- CVRx Inc., a medical device company, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urging the creation of a Level 6 Neurostimulator and Related Services Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) for the 2026 fiscal year. This appeal highlights concerns over the current classification systems and seeks to address reimbursement disparities for innovative therapies aimed at treating heart failure. The BAROSTIM NEO device developed by CV more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Denver Health has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing both appreciation and concerns regarding the proposed rule for Fiscal Year 2026 Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems. As Colorado's primary safety-net institution, Denver Health plays a crucial role in providing care to a significant portion of the Denver population and has raised several points about the implications of cha more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Dialysis Vascular Access Coalition (DVAC) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) highlighting critical issues in the proposed rule for the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) Fee Schedule for calendar year 2026. As a coalition representing numerous entities involved in providing vascular access services for patients with advanced kidney disease, DVAC is poised to address the challenges that its members face in delivering car more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Ekagra Health, a healthcare company, has submitted a public comment letter outlining the urgent need for AI-enabled electronic health record systems tailored for chronic wound care providers to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The statistics reveal that over 10.5 million Americans are currently suffering from chronic wounds, and with the 65+ population projected to grow by 38% by 2040, the situation is worsening. In its communication to the agency, Ekagra Health highlighted the silent epidemic of chron more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- EMD Serono, the Healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its draft guidance on the development of cancer drugs for use in novel combinations. The guidance, identified as FDA-2025-D-1071, aims to address how to determine the individual contributions of drugs within combination therapies targeting cancer treatment. In its letter, EMD Serono expressed appreciation for the FDA's eff more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Emory Healthcare, part of Emory University and a comprehensive health care system based in Georgia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the CY2026 Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) Proposed Rule. In their letter, the organization voiced strong support for measures aimed at improving health care quality, particularly focusing on health data interoperability and patient care enhancements. Emory Healt more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Empire Liver Foundation is calling on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to retain its recommendation for a universal hepatitis B birth dose vaccination program in the United States. The organization emphasizes the critical role this vaccination plays in protecting infants from hepatitis B, a preventable disease with potentially severe health consequences. In its public comment letter, the foundation points to the effectiveness and safety of administering the hepatitis B vaccine shortly after bi more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Francis Medical, a developer of minimally invasive urological cancer treatments, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing concerns related to the proposed 2026 Outpatient Prospective Payment System/ Ambulatory Surgical Center (OPPS/ASC) rule. The company highlighted crucial issues regarding the payment assignment for the innovative 0582T procedure and the implications of the agency's changes concerning the 340B drug more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Claudia Gaughf, a dermatologist from Gaughf Dermatology submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding proposed changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. The letter stated that aspects of the proposed rule would disrupt the clinical standard of care for a non-surgical therapy and restrict patient access. The letter stated that the proposed unified code for "surface radiation therapy" incorrectly conflates three distinct more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration urging for updates to the nutrient specifications for infant formula under 21 CFR 107.100. In particular, GOED advocates for the mandatory inclusion of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), two essential fatty acids critical for infant development. In its letter addressing Docket No. FDA-2025-N-1134, GOED emphasizes the importance  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing concerns over proposed changes to the Medicare and Medicaid Programs for the 2026 payment cycle. As a global organization committed to improving healthcare through technology and information sharing, HIMSS emphasizes the need for aligned quality reporting measures across CMS programs to ease administrative bu more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Highlands Oncology, a physician-owned cancer care center based in Northwest Arkansas, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the proposed payment changes in the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) for the upcoming year. The organization emphasized the need for a revision to the proposed handling of scalp cooling services, designated by the CPT code 9XX02. Highlands Oncology operates multiple locations across Northwest Arkansas and is dedic more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The HIMSS Electronic Health Record (EHR) Association has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed rule for the CY 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) Payment System. The organization expresses concerns related to the timeline for hospitals to comply with new reporting requirements amid significant changes in data use. The EHR Association emphasizes its c more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Houston Methodist has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing proposed changes to the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and the Ambulatory Surgical Center payment systems for calendar year 2026. The organization emphasizes its commitment to patient safety and equitable access to healthcare while expressing serious concerns over specific provisions in the proposed rule. Unified in its mission to pro more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Illinois Psychological Association (IPA) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed changes to the Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). In its letter, the IPA highlights key issues affecting mental health services and urges the agency to prioritize equitable access to behavioral health treatment. In its detailed commentary, the IPA applauds CMS for efforts to address the ongoing mental and behavioral health crisis, ex more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing deep concerns regarding the proposed 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) that could adversely affect bariatric surgeons operating in hospital and ambulatory surgical center (ASC) environments. The letter highlights critical changes in reimbursement structures that may significantly undermine the viability of these surgical specialties. Among the most troubling c more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Independent Sector, a national organization representing nonprofits, foundations, and corporate giving programs, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing deep concern regarding the proposed revisions to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. The organization warns that the changes could significantly affect the nonprofit sector's ability to deliver essential services to vulnerable populations. The PSLF Program, established by Congress in 2007, aims to incentivize  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Indiana University School of Medicine Associate Program Director for Research Niharika Samala submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the agency's proposed rule to continue reimbursement for a liver scan service at a specific rate for Calendar Year 2026. The letter stated that the continued assignment of CPT codes 0648T and 0649T to New Technology APC 1511 is crucial for maintaining equitable access to the more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing strong support for several proposed measures while simultaneously voicing significant concerns about the potential impact of new payment policies. The letter addresses the proposed changes for the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Payment System. IDSA  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Inspire Medical Systems, Minneapolis, Minnesota, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding proposed changes to the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System. The company, which manufactures the Inspire hypoglossal nerve stimulation system for treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea, expressed strong support for a key adjustment to the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code relating to their medical device. In its letter, Inspire Medical Systems specifically addresse more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Integrative Nurse Coach Academy CEO Karen Avino submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urging the agency to authorize Medicare payment for health coaching services provided by qualified nurses. According to the letter, Registered Nurses are uniquely qualified to serve as health coaches. The writer stated that Nurse Coaching is an established specialty practice recognized by the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Intuitive Surgical Inc., a manufacturer of robotic-assisted surgical systems, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (HOPPS) Rule for fiscal year 2025. The letter emphasizes the need for adjustments in the Medicare payment structure to better accommodate advancements in minimally invasive surgical technologies. In its communication, Intuitive highlighted the si more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Iowa Hospital Association (IHA) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), urging the agency to reexamine its proposed payment policies that could severely impact the financial health of hospitals across Iowa. Representing 123 hospitals in the state, including 33 prospective payment system hospitals, the IHA bases its comments on the economic contributions and community service that Iowa hospitals provide amidst escalating costs and reimbursement challenges. The IHA  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Island Eye Surgicenter co-owner Peter Brennen submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concern that proposed updates to ASC payment rates for 2026 would threaten the financial viability of ASCs and impact patient access. The writer stated that while the proposed rule includes a cost-of-living update, it does not reflect the reality of operating an ASC. According to the letter, costs for staffing, supplies, and facility more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Joint Public Health Informatics Task Force, representing 14 national public health associations, has submitted a comprehensive public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed 2026 Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule. JPHIT advocates for improved public health data exchange mechanisms, highlighting the necessity for enhanced interoperability and dedicated funding. In its letter, JPHIT commends CMS for initiatives aimed at fostering interoperability. The more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Kabrita North America has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing gratitude for the agency's comprehensive review of infant formula nutrient requirements under Operation Stork Speed. As a leader in the infant nutrition space, Kabrita asserts its unique position as the first goat milk-based infant formula fully reviewed by the FDA, noting its commitment to safety and nutrition. In the letter, the organization commends the FDA's fo more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Garrett D. Pohlman, M.D., a urologist practicing in Kearney, Nebraska, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing deep concerns regarding the proposed work relative value units (RVUs) for the new CPT code aimed at treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Pohlman argues that the allocation of only 3.6 RVUs for the code 52xx2, which relates to a newly approved balloon dilation procedure, is inadequate for the level  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- LifeNet Health has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding proposed rules for skin substitutes for the 2026 calendar year. In its letter, LNH urged the agency to modernize payment frameworks for its cellular and tissue-based products, crucial for patients suffering from chronic wounds. The organization highlighted a pressing issue concerning the current disparity in reimbursement rates among different geographical locations. LNH argued against implementing geographic a more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Louisiana Research Center Medical Director Prasun Kumar Jalal submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the agency's proposed rule to continue reimbursement for a liver scan service at a specific payment rate for Calendar Year 2026. According to the writer, the continued assignment of CPT codes 0648T and 0649T to New Technology APC 1511 is crucial for maintaining equitable access to the LiverMultiScan servic more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Lumeris has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed rule for the 2026 Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System. Lumeris emphasizes the importance of person-centered care and the organization's commitment to value-based care solutions in its role as a key player in the Medicare Advantage sector. In its correspondence, Lumeris highlights the necessity of reforming existing payment structures to improve health care more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Richard T. Sturm, a co-owner of Mackool Eye Institute in Astoria, New York, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding proposed updates to Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment rates for 2026. The writer expressed concern that the proposed payment updates do not reflect the reality of rising costs and threaten the financial viability of ASCs. The letter stated that nearly every category of expense has increased, includ more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Mainstay Medical, a medical device company focused on restorative neurostimulation therapies for chronic low back pain, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding proposed changes to the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment rates for the upcoming year. The company is advocating for the inclusion of its device, ReActiv8, under Section 4135 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023. In its corres more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Massachusetts General Hospital Liver Transplantation Medical Director Emily Bethea submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the agency's proposed rule to continue assigning a liver scan service to the New Technology APC 1511 for the Calendar Year 2026. According to the letter, continued reimbursement for the LiverMultiScan service will allow access to care for the Medicare patient population. The writer sta more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Massachusetts General Hospital transplant hepatologist Wei Zhang submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the agency's proposed rule to continue reimbursement for a liver scan service at a specific rate for Calendar Year 2026. The letter stated that continued reimbursement for the LiverMultiScan service is crucial to allow access to care for the Medicare patient population. The writer stated that the techno more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Massachusetts Medical Society (MMS) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing proposed changes to the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule and related policies. Representing nearly 23,000 physicians, residents, and medical students, MMS voiced its support for several initiatives while also highlighting critical areas of concern regarding the proposed adjustments. In their letter, MMS specifically acknowledged th more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Medical Microinstruments Inc. (MMI) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed Hospital Outpatient Rule for fiscal year 2026. In this letter, MMI seeks to ensure that the reimbursement rates for the innovative Lymphovenous Bypass (LVB) procedure adequately reflect the clinical demands and technological advancements associated with this surgery. MMI is committed to expanding access to robotic surgical tre more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding its proposed rule for Medicare and Medicaid programs that outlines various changes to hospital outpatient payment systems and ambulatory surgical centers. MedPAC expressed its appreciation for the agency's ongoing efforts to refine Medicare's payment structures while raising specific concerns about several proposals outlined for calendar year 2026. In the letter, MedPAC  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing grave concerns about the proposed regulations affecting hospital outpatient and ambulatory surgical center payment systems for the calendar year 2026. The MHA, representing member hospitals across Michigan, argues that these proposals could severely limit Medicare patients' access to essential care and lead to increased burdens on more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Missouri Hospital Association, Jefferson City, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) outlining critical concerns regarding proposed updates for the Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System and related programs set for 2026. Representing 136 member hospitals, MHA is urging the agency to reconsider its proposed payment alterations, emphasizing the financial pressures currently faced by hospitals nationwide. The letter highlights alarming trends in hospital fi more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The National Alliance to Impact Social Determinants of Health (NASDOH) has submitted a public comment letter addressed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concern over proposed changes to the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems for calendar year 2026. In the letter, NASDOH urges the agency to retain critical quality measures related to social drivers of health, emphasizing their importance in impro more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The National Council for Mental Wellbeing has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding proposed changes to the calendar year 2026 Payment Policies under the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System. This letter addresses critical issues concerning payment rates and administrative burdens affecting community mental health organizations. The National Council, representing over 3,200  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Netsmart Technologies Inc. submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding the proposed changes for the Calendar Year 2026 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). The letter emphasizes the company's perspective on improving telehealth services, behavioral health integration, and the adoption of innovative technology in patient care. In their letter, Netsmart outlines key recommendations aimed at enhancing Medicare and Medicaid Programs, particularly in relation to payment poli more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The New Jersey Hospital Association (NJHA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) voicing concerns about proposed updates to the Outpatient Prospective Payment Systems (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment systems for Calendar Year (CY) 2026. The NJHA, representing over 400 healthcare organizations, argues that the proposed payment increase of 2.4% is inadequate given the rising costs and economic pressures hos more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Russell Petrie, an orthopedic surgeon from Newport Orthopedic Institute submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide feedback on global surgical package shares. The writer stated that the current payment structure impacts both providers and patients and does not reflect how care is delivered in orthopedic surgery. The surgeon stated that the division of services between the surgical procedure and postoperative care is ofte more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Newton-Wellesley Hospital Department of Medicine Chair Lawrence S. Friedman submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the proposed continued assignment of CPT codes 0648T and 0649T under New Technology APC 1511 for the Calendar Year 2026. According to the writer, the proposed continued reimbursement for the LiverMultiScan service is necessary to ensure payment rates for innovative AI technologies are correct more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Niskanen Center has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services pushing for crucial reforms in the 2026 physician fee schedule aimed at addressing the current primary care workforce crisis. The nonprofit organization, known for advocating innovative public policies, expressed its support for changes intended to expand access to affordable healthcare options while mitigating the market distortions that have negatively impacted both pa more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Northern Light Health has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing proposed changes in the hospital outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) and ambulatory surgical center (ASC) payment system for the calendar year 2026. The organization, which operates four prospective payment hospitals in Maine, has expressed concerns that several of these proposed rules could adversely affect beneficiary access to essential hospi more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. has issued a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration to address concerns regarding the draft guidance on the development of cancer drugs used in novel combination therapies. The pharmaceutical giant, based in East Hanover, New Jersey, is known for its commitment to delivering innovative healthcare solutions globally. In its letter, Novartis expressed appreciation for the opportunity to comment on the draft guidance, which outlines the contributions of individual drugs in  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission regarding Draft Regulatory Guide DG-1439, titled "Guidance for Technology-Inclusive Risk-Informed Change Evaluation." The organization, representing a diverse membership within the nuclear energy sector, has expressed its appreciation for the commission's clarifications and overall regulatory approach. In its correspondence, NEI indicated full support for the regulatory guide as proposed by the agency whil more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Oldways, an educational nonprofit based in Boston, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) addressing the agency's request for information regarding "Ultra-Processed Foods." The letter reiterates concerns about the implications of a processing-based classification system on public health, specifically regarding whole grains. In its correspondence, Oldways emphasizes that measuring nutrition solely based on processing levels is misleadin more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- OnlyOther Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration regarding the agency's request for information on "Infant Formula Nutrient Requirements." The company praises the agency's Operation Stork Speed initiative, which aims to enhance and diversify infant formula options available in the market. In the letter, OnlyOther highlights the limitations of scientific literature concerning the nutritional composition of infant formula and human breast milk. The organization points out that curre more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The American Physical Society (APS) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security expressing opposition to the proposed changes to Duration of Status policies outlined in DHS Docket No. ICEB-2025-0001. These changes, which would establish fixed admission periods for nonimmigrant academic students and exchange visitors, are seen as detrimental to the U.S. scientific and technology sectors. APS argues that the proposed rule could inflict severe harm on the nation's ability to attract and re more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Organized Village of Kasaan (OVK) Tribal Council, Alaska, expressed strong opposition to the proposed rescission of the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule in a public comment letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The organization has detailed concerns that the rollback would threaten over 9 million acres of ancestral lands within the Tongass National Forest, crucial to both cultural identity and ecological integrity. According to OVK, the Tongass National Forest is more than just a natural resour more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Outpatient Endovascular and Interventional Society has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing key issues in the proposed rule for the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS). The organization, representing more than 700 healthcare professionals, advocates for enhanced outpatient care standards and efficient reimbursement structure. In its commentary, OEIS welcomed the proposed structural changes to the Lower Extremity Revasc more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers (PACHC) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) outlining its support and recommendations for Medicare payment policies that benefit community health centers (CHCs) and their patients. PACHC represents a vast network of CHCs across Pennsylvania, providing vital healthcare services to over 1 million patients annually. In its letter, PACHC emphasized the critical role th more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Phit4Lyfe Integrative Health LLC health and wellness coach Tiquita D. Stewart submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the 2026 notice of proposed rulemaking for Medicare's physician fee schedule. The writer urged the agency to adopt clear coding and adequate payment for health coaching services under Medicare. The letter stated that the writer is a board-certified health and wellness coach who works alongside individua more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Photocure, a specialty pharmaceutical company based in Princeton, New Jersey, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), advocating for the separate reimbursement of its product Cysview (hexaminolevulinate HCl). The company claims that the current reimbursement policies have severely restricted patient access to blue light cystoscopy (BLC), a treatment that significantly enhances bladder cancer detection and management. In its more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Physicians for Social Responsibility has voiced strong opposition to a proposed change by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that would make the Excessive Radiation electronic Clinical Quality Measure (eCQM) voluntary within the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting Program. The organization's board president, a physician with extensive experience in both pathology and reproductive health, emphasized the critical role that radiation management plays in patient safety and public health. The public comment lette more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, Annapolis, Maryland, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed regulations for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) for calendar year 2026. The organization represents plasma donation centers and manufacturers of plasma protein therapies, urging the federal agency to ensure Medicare beneficiaries maintain access to life-saving treatments. In its letter, PPTA supports CMS's proposal t more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Promaxo Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing strong support for proposed changes to the prostate biopsy code set in the CY 2026 Outpatient Prospective Payment System and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System Proposed Rule (CMS 1834-P). The organization, which specializes in low-field, office-based MRI systems, stated that the proposed updates would enhance patient outcomes in prostate cancer diagnosis.  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Gel4Med Inc., a biomaterials engineering company based in Brighton, Massachusetts, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed payment policies for skin substitutes in the Calendar Year 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). The organization emphasized the need for CMS to refine its payment framework to promote equity for innovative products that play a critical role in wound care. In its letter, Gel4Med highlighted its approval by the FDA for i more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Providence, a non-profit health system spanning seven states, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) voicing its concerns regarding the proposed rule for the Fiscal Year 2026 Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS). The proposed rule includes a modest outpatient rate increase, however, the organization highlighted that this increase does not account for the financial challenges hospitals currently face. In the letter,  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Reginald J. Sanders, a partner at The Retina Group of Washington submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the pricing for a home optical coherence tomography (OCT) service. The writer strongly supported the agency establishing a national price for the service but stated that the proposed pricing grossly misvalues the code. The letter stated that home OCT represents a transformative advance in managing neovascular age- more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Riparian, an affiliate of Envision Pharma Group, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services concerning proposed payment policies for Medicare and Medicaid programs in 2026. The letter outlines concerns about provisions impacting pharmaceutical manufacturers and valuators amid anticipated changes in the industry. In the comment letter, Riparian expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to provide feedback on crucial elements of t more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Rural Policy Research Institute Health Panel (Panel) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the agency's proposed rule concerning various payment systems and quality reporting measures impacting healthcare in rural communities. The proposed rule aims to refine the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting (OQR), Rural Emergency Hospital Quality Program (REHQR), and Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality Reporting (ASCQ more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Rush University Medical College Associate Professor of Medicine Nancy Reau submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) providing input on the proposed rule for the Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and advocated for continued assignment of payment for a liver scan technology. The writer stated that CPT codes 0648T and 0649T, which are associated with the LiverMultiScan service, should cont more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urging a postponement of the upcoming September meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The letter, submitted by the Health Officer of the City and County of San Francisco, raises concerns regarding recent leadership losses and the current lack of expert members on the committee. The SFDPH argues that t more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Sandoz Inc., a global leader in generic and biosimilar pharmaceuticals, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payments and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems. The letter outlines Sandoz's recommendations aimed at enhancing access to affordable medications for Medicare beneficiaries. In its letter, Sandoz emphasized its dedication to improving patient access to medi more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- SI-BONE Inc., a medical device manufacturer specializing in treatments for spinopelvic conditions, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) for 2026. The company expressed concern that the proposed removal of certain procedures from the Inpatient Only (IPO) List could negatively impact patient care and hospital reimbursement. In the letter, SI-BONE more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Social Innovation Ventures has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing strong support for a proposal addressing telehealth coverage for cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation (CR/PR) services under the Medicare program. The letter emphasizes the need to permanently include CR and PR in the Medicare telehealth services list, enabling more patients to access these essential treatments remotely. The organization has highlight more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) highlighting concerns regarding the proposed rule for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (HOPPS) for the 2026 calendar year. The international society, which represents nearly 6,000 medical professionals dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD), has expressed the need fo more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) concerning the proposed rule for the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems. Representing over 15,000 members, the organization emphasizes the need for updated payment policies that address critical issues impacting the availability and use of advanced nuclear more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Southern Oregon Climate Action Now Cofacilitator Alan R.P. Journet submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service opposing the proposed repeal of the 2001 Roadless Rule. The letter stated that the organization represents thousands of Southern Oregonians who understand and accept the scientific consensus regarding climate change and are concerned about the climate crisis. The writer challenged the justifications for repealing the rule, particularly those related to wildfire suppres more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Soy Nutrition Institute Global (SNI Global) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging the agency to consider the critical role of soybean oil and soy protein in infant formula. As the leading scientific voice representing soy producers and stakeholders, SNI Global emphasizes the need for maintaining access to these ingredients in any upcoming revisions to infant formula nutrient requirements. The organization highlights the importa more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 -- Springfield Clinic gastroenterologist Dmitry Shuster submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the agency's proposed rule to continue paying for a quantitative liver scan service under the Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS). The writer from Illinois stated that LiverMultiScan, a quantitative, multiparametric MR service, is separate and distinct from anatomical imagi more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The National Center for Advocacy and Recovery has submitted a public comment letter urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to enhance the implementation of the NOPAIN Act in the upcoming calendar year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System proposed rule. The letter highlights the importance of ensuring that all qualifying non-opioid therapies for acute postsurgical pain receive separate reimbursement, a necessary move to address the ongoing opioid crisis affecting countless families across more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Summit Clinical Research Chief Academic Officer Naim Alkhouri submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the proposed rule for the Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and expressing support for continued reimbursement for a liver scan service. The writer, an advocate for advancements in liver disease management, stated that the LiverMultiScan service is a noninvasive test that ca more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- The Tennessee Hospital Association (THA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing significant concerns regarding proposed changes in the Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and other Medicare-related payment rules for calendar year 2026. In their letter, THA advocates on behalf of over 160 healthcare facility members, outlining the potential financial impact these proposed policies may have on hospitals in  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- Tissue Regenix, a company focused on advanced wound care technologies, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the 2026 Proposed Rule for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System. In its letter, the organization expressed support for consistent and equitable reimbursement policies that aim to improve beneficiary access to innovative skin substitutes. The company commended the agency's ongoing efforts to harmonize reimbursement across various care setting more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- United Musculoskeletal Partners National Physician Leadership Board Chair Gary Stewart and Vice Chair Michael Briseno submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concern that a proposed efficiency adjustment and revisions to practice expense relative value units (RVUs) for facility-based procedures will negate a Medicare fee schedule increase and result in a net cut for many specialties. The surgeons stated that while the more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- University of Alabama Division of Endocrinology Professor Rita Basu submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for the agency's proposed rule to continue reimbursement for a liver scan service at a specific rate for Calendar Year 2026. The letter stated that the continued assignment of CPT codes 0648T and 0649T to New Technology APC 1511 is crucial for maintaining equitable access to the LiverMultiScan service. T more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- University of Manitoba Pediatrics & Child Health Professor Meghan Azad submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in response to the agency's Request for Information on "Infant Formula Nutrient Requirements." The letter provided scientific data to help guide the review and recommended adding certain human milk components to infant formula. The writer stated that while mothers' own milk is the optimal nutrition for infants, there is an obligati more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The Tufts Food is Medicine Institute has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, advocating for nutrition-focused strategies to combat chronic diseases. The organization emphasizes the critical need for action to address the alarming statistics surrounding poor diet and its connection to significant health issues in the United States. In the letter, the director of the institute highlights that poor nutrition contributes to over 500,000 deaths annually across the country.  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- UroGen Pharma Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the Medicare Program's proposed rule for Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems for Calendar Year 2026. The company expressed its support for the agency's proposal to maintain New Technology Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) status for HCPCS code C9789, which relates to its drug JELMYTO (mitomycin) used to  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- UsAgainstAlzheimer's, a patient-advocacy organization dedicated to combating Alzheimer's disease, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for essential improvements in the proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2026. The organization expressed strong support for the proposed improvement activity focused on "Improving Detection of Cognitive Impairment in Primary Care." In their correspondence, UsAgainstAlzhei more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- UW Health has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) urging improvements to telehealth services as outlined in the proposed 2026 Physician Fee Schedule rule. The integrated health system, associated with the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, expressed its commitment to enhancing patient care through expanded access to telehealth solutions. In its letter, UW Health emphasized the importance of teleh more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- UW Medicine submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing strong opposition to recent proposals that could threaten its ability to provide critical healthcare services. These proposals include a nationwide survey of hospital drug acquisition costs intended to inform rate setting in 2027 and deeper reductions to non-drug outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) payment rates to recoup past payments under CMS's previous policy for 340B drugs. As one of the largest a more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- UW Medicine has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing serious concerns regarding the proposed changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2026. The organization, which employs over 35,000 staff and provides critical healthcare services to millions in Washington state, emphasizes the vital importance of maintaining telehealth flexibilities that have expanded access to care since the COVID-19 pande more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Howard J. Kushnick, a co-owner of Valley Eye Surgical Center in Bethlehem, PA, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding proposed updates to Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment rates for 2026. The writer expressed concern that the proposed payment updates do not reflect the reality of rising costs and threaten the financial viability of ASCs. The letter stated that nearly every category of expense has increased, inc more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- Vivex Biologics, a developer of innovative allograft products, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed hospital outpatient prospective payment system rule for calendar year 2026. The company emphasized its primary concern: ensuring continued access for Medicare beneficiaries to essential wound care technologies. In its letter, Vivex expressed support for the Skin Substitute Access and Payment Reform Act of 2 more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- W. L. Gore & Associates Inc. submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding its proposal for the Calendar Year 2026 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and related quality reporting initiatives. The company, a global leader in medical devices, expressed apprehension over the planned removal of the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for specific procedures, particularly concerning the assignment of CPT code 37182, which refers to t more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- WCCC Cardiac Device Clinic Supervisor Kelly Gaines, Marietta, Georgia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, urging a reevaluation of the reimbursement for CPT Code 93296 as part of the proposed rule for the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule. The appeal emphasizes the substantial gap between the complexity of remote cardiac monitoring and the current reimbursement models, which are believed to undervalue the workload involved in this  more ST

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 -- WellSpan Health, a regional healthcare leader serving central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the proposed rule for the Calendar Year 2026 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) Payment System. The organization expressed strong concerns over several proposed policies that could significantly impact healthcare delive more ST