Advocacy News

The Academy has asked the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to reconsider proposed Medicare payment changes that could harm ophthalmologists, including new practice expense policies, proposed reductions for same-day evaluation and management (E/M) visits billed with Modifier -25 and global procedures, and major changes to Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) reporting.

Academy members made use of a powerful opportunity to advance the Academy’s key priorities, engaging with legislators and their staff while in their home districts, away from Capitol Hill.

The new name reflects an expanded mission to defend physician-led surgical eye care through support for legislative, regulatory, legal, and public advocacy.

The draft 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule has been released, and comments on it are due to CMS by Sept. 14. Join the Academy in making your voice heard. See what's at stake for ophthalmology.

AAO 2026 is a great time to delve into the Academy's advocacy efforts and meet those who are making a difference in federal and state legislation. Whether you stop by the OPHTHPAC® and Safe Surgery Action Fund (formerly the Surgical Scope Fund) booths to learn about our work, join us at our reception, or attend one of our advocacy sessions, we’re looking forward to seeing you this year in New Orleans. All sessions are in Central Time.

Academy members sent a resounding message to Congress last week: You sent about 500 letters to lawmakers urging them to support the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.

 As part of the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA) Week of Action, the Academy and American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS), in partnership with the ELSA Coalition, are contacting members of Congress and encouraging action in support of ELSA.

Congress heads home in August, and the timing could not be more important. Prior authorization reform and Medicare physician payment reform are both in play this fall — and constituent meetings during recess are one of the most effective ways to move legislators off the sidelines. The Academy will coordinate the meeting; you bring the message.

Hundreds of ophthalmologists gather in Washington, D.C., for Mid-Year Forum 2026, April 15-18. Follow our ongoing coverage here.

Advocacy wins don’t happen by accident — they happen because members like you step up. Make your OPHTHPAC contribution today to enter this spirited competition and help your state lead the nation in advocacy strength.