Representative Shelley Berkley (D-NV) recently introduced H.R. 4206, the Medicare Fracture Prevention and Osteoporosis Testing Act in support of dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) services, and the Society is working toward introduction of a companion bill in the Senate. This legislation will overturn the harmful cuts to Medicare reimbursement for DXA and VFA tests that are already being implemented. These cuts, which in total will reduce payment for DXA services from $140 in 2006 to $50 in 2010, have made it difficult for providers such as endocrinologists to continue offering DXA and VFA scans to their patients outside of the hospital setting. Many providers have discontinued DXA and VFA testing in their offices and imaging centers as a result. The specifics of the DXA cuts and the legislation are described in more detail in the November 21, 2007, issue of Endocrine Insider.

We need the support of the full Senate to ensure passage of the bill when it is introduced. Please contact your senators and ask for their support in fixing the payment cuts to DXA that threaten patient access to this vital test. A sample letter has been created for you; you may customize it if you wish by clicking on the link below.

http://capwiz.com/endocrine/issues/alert/?alertid=10854016&type=CO