- Last December, lawmakers passed a short-term funding bill to keep the government running through March 14, 2025, though last-minute chaos limited the scope of the year-end package.
- Legislation was introduced to provide funding for expanding mobile lung cancer screening in rural and underserved communities.
- The 119th Congress is underway, with confirmation hearings for appointments set to impact federal healthcare policies.
- As we enter 2025, STS remains dedicated to advocating for policies that support surgeons, enhance patient care, and strengthen the healthcare system.
In December, lawmakers passed a short-term funding bill to keep the government running through March 14, 2025. However, last-minute chaos drastically reduced the size and scope of the year-end package, which resulted in many critical healthcare priorities being left out. Several key provisions were excluded, like Medicare physician payment relief, policies to strengthen pediatric care, funding for physician wellness programs, and more. As a result, the 2.83% cut to Medicare payments took effect on Jan. 1. Despite this setback, STS remains optimistic that Congress will address these issues in March, as it did last year. STS will also continue to advocate for long-term reforms, including payment stability and annual inflation updates.
One bright spot in the closing days of the last Congress was the introduction of legislation, at the request of STS, to provide funding for expanding mobile lung cancer screening in rural and underserved communities. This innovative effort aims to detect cancers earlier, improve outcomes, and reduce health disparities.
The events of 2024 brought significant policy developments. We invite you to review the key advocacy highlights to see the full extent of STS’s impact last year.
The 119th Congress is already in full swing after Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) was re-elected despite some frustration among Republicans regarding the December funding negotiations. In the Senate, confirmation hearings are starting for key administration positions, including secretary of health and human services and CMS administrator. These appointments will have a significant impact on federal healthcare policies. STS is preparing to engage with the new leadership once they are confirmed to ensure that the pressing needs of cardiothoracic surgery are addressed.
As we enter 2025, STS remains steadfast in its commitment to advocate for policies that support surgeons, improve patient care, and strengthen the healthcare system. With your continued engagement, we are poised to turn challenges into opportunities and make meaningful progress in the months ahead. Thank you for being part of this vital work.