September 28, 2017

APMA defeats proposed orthotics rule

APMA has defeated a proposed CMS rule that would have changed certification requirements for podiatric physicians furnishing and fabricating prosthetics and custom orthotics. Proposed Rule CMS-6012-P, originally released in January, would have required previously exempted, qualified practitioners to obtain additional certification and licenses to furnish and fabricate prosthetics and orthotics. The proposed rule has been withdrawn after a massive and multifaceted advocacy effort from APMA.  

APMA submitted formal comments to CMS in March and mobilized a significant grassroots advocacy initiative among members, affiliated organizations, and state component societies, which also submitted comments. Nearly 1,000 individual members participated in that effort, adding strength through their numbers. APMA met in person with representatives from the CMS Center for Program Integrity in August to discuss the shortcomings of the proposed rule. APMA acknowledged that certification guidelines were necessary, but that CMS should maintain exemptions for qualified physicians, including podiatrists, whose advanced education and training negated the need for additional licensing and certification.

APMA also collaborated closely with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Occupational Therapy Association, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association, the American Physical Therapy Association, and industry representatives to defeat the proposed rule. APMA extends its appreciation to Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), who helped address APMA members’ concerns directly with CMS. APMA will continue to collaborate with stakeholders and Congress to explore a legislative fix to permanently codify physician exemption and thwart any possible future CMS action.

“APMA extends its sincere thanks to the many members and colleagues who took up the call and advocated for their profession,” said APMA President Ira H. Kraus, DPM. “We are delighted to celebrate this victory with you.”