Statement attributed to Texas Medical Association President Jayesh “Jay” Shah, MD, regarding the failure of the U.S. Senate budget reconciliation proposal to adequately address physician Medicare payments.
“The Texas Medical Association is deeply concerned about the perilous path of federal health policy, particularly the U.S. Senate’s latest budget reconciliation proposal. Once again, the viability of physician practices was overlooked, potentially jeopardizing access to care for millions of patients.
“For over two decades, Medicare has denied physicians a fundamental tool for economic stability: an annual inflation adjustment. Hospitals, nursing homes, and large insurance plans receive regular updates to account for rising costs, yet physicians face persistent pay cuts, freezes, and unpredictable shortfalls. Inflation, workforce shortages, and escalating practice costs have forced many private practices—especially in rural and underserved communities—to close their doors.
“The U.S. House budget proposal offered a modest step forward with a partial Medicare payment update. However, the Senate’s plan reverses this progress, exacerbating an already critical situation. At a time when Medicare patients struggle to access timely care, this is a dangerous misstep that threatens the foundation of our health care system.
“Furthermore, the Senate bill’s proposed Medicaid funding reductions demand scrutiny. States like Texas already face immense fiscal challenges in meeting the needs of Medicaid patients. Deep federal cuts and restrictions on provider-tax flexibility could trigger unintended consequences, straining hospitals, clinics, and—most critically—patients who rely on these services.
“We urge lawmakers to pursue balanced, data-driven reforms that prioritize the stability of physician practices and ensure access to care for our most vulnerable populations. Medicare and Medicaid policies must support, not undermine, the health care practitioners and and patients who depend on them.”
Last Updated On
June 25, 2025
Originally Published On
June 25, 2025