Preserving the long-term sustainability of cardiothoracic surgical practices is essential for ensuring that patients continue to have access to specialized care. The field faces an array of challenges—ranging from declining reimbursements to regulatory hurdles—that have been intensifying over the years. Tackling these issues requires vocal advocacy, long-term commitment, and collaborations with other healthcare stakeholders. STS strives to equip cardiothoracic surgeons with the necessary authority, resources, and support they need to deliver the highest standard of patient care. 
 

Priorities 

  • Urge Reforms for Medicare Payments: Adjusted for inflation in practice costs, Medicare physician payment declined by over 30% from 2001-2025. STS advocacy helped mitigate these cuts, but significant reforms are needed to make Medicare reimbursements predictable and sustainable, including an annual inflation-based adjustment.    
  • Advocate for Effective Medicare Payment Models: Maximize cardiothoracic surgeon participation in value-based payment models and ensure appropriate measurement.
  • Ensure Appropriate Coverage, Reimbursement, and Scope of Practice: Work with Medicare, private payers, and others to ensure that cardiothoracic procedures are covered and reimbursed appropriately.  
  • Make Telehealth Flexibilities Permanent: Collaborate with other stakeholders to retain telehealth flexibilities beyond 2025.
     

Endorsed Legislation

 

Resources