ASCO's Cancer Policy Alert Published

Late last night, after a political back-and-forth, the Senate failed to move H.R. 6331, the legislation that would have averted the 10.6% cut to final passage. Earlier this week, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6331, The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, by an overwhelming vote of 355-59. Since both the House and Senate have adjourned for the July 4th recess, this means that the 10.6% cut to physician payments will go into effect on July 1st . It is possible, but not guaranteed, that the Congress will pass a bill in July to adjust physician payments retroactively.

Thank you to all who contacted their Members of Congress in the lead up to these votes. Please continue to call and visit your Senators, Representatives, and their staff in their district offices while they are home for the week of June 30 - July 4. Thank those who supported H.R. 6331 and urge all Senators and Representatives to pass an SGR patch as soon as they return to Washington, DC, after the July 4 district work period. Your calls, letters, e-mails, and in-person visits make a huge impact and are critical to keeping this issue at the top of the priority list.

ASCO will continue to advocate for immediate legislative action when Congress returns from recess. For more information, contact ASCO's Cancer Policy & Clinical Affairs Department at 703-299-1050 or publicpolicy@asco.org.