The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) and the American Thyroid Association (ATA) Respond to the CY2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule Undervaluation of Fine Needle Aspiration Procedures
Fine Needle Aspiration is the primary tool for evaluating thyroid nodules that are suspicious for thyroid cancer. When properly used, it avoids the need for thyroid surgery, which is far more invasive and expensive.
The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology and the American Thyroid Association have become increasingly alarmed about the negative impacts of the reduction of RVU for the “Fine Needle Aspiration” CPT code set 10005, 10006 and 10021 that began with the 2019 Physician Fee Schedule. We ask that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) review its previous decision to reduce payment for these codes now that we have further experience with the new valuation.
The low valuation of the Fine Needle Aspiration RVU for CPT codes 10004, 10005, 10006 and 10021 has resulted in increased overall costs, reduced access, and reduced quality of care. We are seeing damage to the physician workforce capable of competently diagnosing and performing this procedure, which will reduce access and increase costs in the future. CMS must act quickly to repair this problem and avoid further expense and reductions in quality.
Learn more about the concerns of the Fine Needle Aspiration RVU for CPT codes 10004, 10005, 10006 and 10021, reduced access, increased costs, and depletion of the provider talent pool willing to perform FNA procedures here.
About American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE)
The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) represents more than 5,700 clinical endocrinologists who participate in Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance working in private practice, academic practices, and health systems across the nation, working to improve quality of endocrine care for patients and reduce health care cost. Our mission is elevating the practice of clinical endocrinology to improve global health. Our vision is achieving healthier communities through endocrine innovation, education, and care.
About American Thyroid Association (ATA)
The American Thyroid Association (ATA) is dedicated to transforming thyroid care through clinical excellence, education, scientific discovery, and advocacy in a collaborative and diverse community. ATA is an international professional medical society with more than 1,700 members from private practice, academic health centers and other practice and research settings globally.