January 26, 2009 

As you know, DXA reimbursement in the physician's office (non-facility) setting has been reduced by approximately 50% over the last three years from an average of $140 in 2006 to an average of $71 in 2009.  Additional cuts are scheduled to occur next year resulting in a projected average payment of $53 in 2010. 

The Endocrine Society last surveyed the membership two years ago to gauge what impact the projected DXA cuts would have on patients and physicians.  In order to convey an accurate, up-to-date picture to Congress about the impact of these cuts, compounded by the current economic crisis and other challenges to the physician practice, we are asking that you please take a moment to take this brief survey if you provide DXA scans.  If you have already discontinued providing DXA scans in your office, please complete the survey to the best of your ability and indicate at the end of the survey if you are willing to tell your story to a staff member.

This information will be used by The Endocrine Society and its sister societies on Capitol Hill as we continue to advance legislation to reverse the DXA cuts resulting from revisions to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule and the Deficit Reduction Act.  Your participation and input in this survey is important and will contribute to the success of these efforts.  We would appreciate having you complete the survey by COB Monday, February 2^nd.

Thank you for your assistance with this important advocacy initiative.  If you have questions about the Society's efforts to address the DXA payment cuts, please contact Stephanie Kutler, Director of Government and Professional Affairs at skutler@endo-society.org .

To access the survey, please click on the link below:

http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB228R3Q32KR8