Advocacy Update Nov. 11, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 11, 2025
AADA opposed efficiency adjustment in 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
Final 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule: Dermatology impact tables available
AADA urges Congress to repeal physician-owned hospital restrictions
Medicare Physician Payment
AADA opposed efficiency adjustment in 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
The AADA joined over 30 other medical specialty groups demanding that congressional leadership oppose the CMS efficiency adjustment (PDF) in the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule. The 2026 rule applies a -2.5% adjustment to the non-time-based work Relative Value Unit (RVU), resulting in decreased Medicare payment values. The letter asked Congress to utilize all tools at its disposal to stop the proposal, but congressional action seems unlikely because this policy divides the house of medicine, with support from primary care physicians.
Medicare Physician Payment
Final 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule: Dermatology impact tables available
The Academy estimates that the overall impact on dermatology payment will be an increase of about 1-2% for office-based settings. However, individual outcomes may vary based on specific practice mix, service volume, and location. AADA staff are continuing to analyze the final rule and its total impact on dermatologists.
While dermatologists will see a modest overall payment increase for 2026, reductions tied to a new “efficiency adjustment” policy and the finalized site-of-service payment differential policy may offset these gains for certain procedures.
Stay informed and understand how these updates may impact your practice beginning on Jan. 1, 2026, by reviewing our analysis of the top dermatology codes.
Federal Advocacy
AADA urges Congress to repeal physician-owned hospital restrictions
The AADA, together with the American Medical Association (AMA) and over 80 other specialty and state medical societies, asked members of Congress to repeal restrictions on physician-owned hospitals (PDF). In the AMA-led letter, the group urged Reps. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX) to support H.R. 4002, the Patient Access to Higher Quality Health Care Act, which would repeal the statutory restrictions on physician-owned hospitals. Current law prohibits the formation or expansion of physician-owned hospitals. This legislation would support the development of alternative payment delivery models and provide the opportunity to improve care and promote competition without creating new spending programs or administrative burdens.
Drug Access
Members report difficulty obtaining Kenalog
The Academy recently heard from members experiencing challenges obtaining Kenalog (triamcinolone acetonide) for injection. Reports indicate difficulty sourcing both vials and compounded syringes, across various concentrations and from multiple manufacturers.
While this product is not currently listed on the FDA Drug Shortages database, we are closely monitoring the situation and gathering information from our members to better understand the scope and potential impact.
If you are encountering similar issues accessing this medication, please contact us at regulatory@aad.org.
AADA News
ASDSA annual meeting SkinPAC event
Join SkinPAC for a breakfast event at the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association (ASDSA) Annual Meeting in Chicago this Thursday, Nov. 13. The breakfast will be held from 7-8 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Room Michigan 3. The event is open to all 2025 SkinPAC members who contribute $250 and above ($25 or more for Residents). Kick off the day by enjoying a hot breakfast and networking with your colleagues!
Contributions to SkinPAC will be accepted on-site in Chicago, but you can contribute early by visiting www.skinpac.org or by texting SkinPACASDS to 41444. RSVP to skinpac@aad.org.
AADA News
Support dermatology champions in Congress through SkinPAC
As of Nov. 6, SkinPAC has raised $956,773 from 843 individuals. Contribute online at www.skinpac.org or by texting SkinPAC to 71777. Help us keep up the momentum as we advocate for Medicare physician payment reform! SkinPAC helps strengthen our relationships on Capitol Hill and reinforces our grassroots and lobbying efforts.
Email skinpac@aad.org with any questions.
The political purpose of the American Academy of Dermatology Association Political Action Committee ("SkinPAC") is to solicit and receive contributions to be used to make political campaign expenditures to those candidates for elective office, and other federal political committees, who demonstrate understanding and interest in the view and goals of the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Contributions to SkinPAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions to SkinPAC must be made from your funds and may not be reimbursed. SkinPAC cannot accept contributions from corporate accounts. Any recommended contribution amount is merely a suggestion. All AADA members have the right to contribute more or less or refuse to contribute without reprisal. Federal law prohibits us from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, physical address, occupation, and name of the employer whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year.
