Molly Peltzman, STS Advocacy
2 min read
All Members Advocacy
Key Points
  • Congress approved a reconciliation package with a 2.5% Medicare physician payment increase for 2026.
  • The bill includes major cuts to Medicaid eligibility, resulting in millions of people losing their coverage.
  • STS opposes these reductions, citing risks to essential care access for low-income Americans with serious heart and lung conditions.
  • The Society challenges harmful student loan provisions that threaten access to medical education and risk worsening the shortage of cardiothoracic surgeons.
  • STS remains committed to advocating for policies that benefit our members and their patients.

Congress has passed a finalized reconciliation package that includes a 2.5% increase in physician payment for 2026. This is a substantial win for our community, especially after experiencing a 2.8% reduction in Medicare physician payments in 2025. STS will continue to advocate for long-term reform in Medicare physician payment policies.    

However, the bill also includes sweeping cuts to Medicaid eligibility, which could result in millions of people losing their coverage. STS opposes Medicaid cuts and has expressed concern about the potential for restricted access to essential care for many low-income Americans, including those with serious lung and heart conditions. Medicaid serves as a critical safety net, providing coverage for nearly one in five Americans and supporting patients who require specialized treatment.  

STS also opposes certain harmful provisions related to student loans that are included in the final bill. These provisions will reduce access to medical education and may worsen the anticipated shortage of cardiothoracic surgeons. STS has advocated against these damaging provisions, including sending a letter to the Senate HELP leadership prior to the vote.    

Despite the failure of Congress to address all of the Society’s concerns, STS remains committed to advocating for policies that benefit our members and their patients. For questions or to get involved in advocacy efforts, please contact the STS Government Relations team at advocacy@sts.org.