As we approach the next election, it is of utmost importance that we, as one of the strongest voices for independent medicine, engage in political advocacy. Our mission is to ensure that the independent practice of urology endures while showcasing outstanding quality and value to our patients, vendors, payers, legislators, and regulatory agencies. To achieve this, we must actively preserve our autonomy and demonstrate the highest quality standards through evidence-based practices and effective communication.
Our legislative agenda focuses on several critical areas that directly affect our ability to provide individualized care, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible
treatments, including
- price transparency;
- drug pricing and access;
- prior authorization and step therapy;
- in-office dispensing and telemedicine;
- reform of the Medicare Access and Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2015 and Medicare fee schedules;
- ensuring healthy competition; and
- diagnostic advancements.
Your commitment to these issues is vital to the positive change we seek.
In 2024, LUGPA achieved substantial policy victories, advocating for reforms in health care. We convened the first 2 Community Practice Summits, a first-of-its-kind meeting of health care groups; opposed step therapy; endorsed vital legislation such as the Safe Step Act; and advocated for transparency in health care pricing. We also helped secure Medicare payment relief measures in the US Congress and submitted ambulatory surgical center reimbursement code recommendations.
Our efforts extended to addressing crucial issues such as the reform of section 340B of the Public Health Service Act, opposing prior authorization demonstrations, and advocating against US Federal Trade Commission rules restricting noncompete agreements. We championed legislative initiatives such as Senate Bill 2883 in Tennessee, which improves coverage of prostate cancer screening, and provided input on artificial intelligence integration in health care. These victories reflect our commitment to enhancing patient outcomes, promoting health care equity, and ensuring the sustainability of independent practices.
To advance these critical initiatives, we need your support. Contributing to our advocacy efforts enables us to secure meetings with members of Congress and influence legislation that affects our profession. Your contributions are vital in shaping a health care landscape that values and sustains independent urology practices.
Together, we can protect our autonomy and continue delivering the highest-quality care to our patients. Thank you for your continued dedication and support.
Citation: Goldfischer E. Letter from the president of LUGPA. Rev Urol. 2024;23(3):e21.
Corresponding author: Evan E. Goldfischer, MD, LUGPA, 875 N Michigan Ave #3100, Chicago, IL 60610 (info@lugpa.org)