Update: Congress has passed the Budget Reconciliation bill. The president is expected to sign it soon. Here's what it includes and how it impacts podiatric physicians:
- Medicare Payment Relief: A 2.5-percent increase in Medicare physician payments for 2026 offers short-term support—but long-term payment reform is still urgently needed.
- SALT Deduction Preserved: The bill retains the state and local tax (SALT) deduction for pass-through entities, including many podiatric practices.
- Medicaid Watch: APMA is monitoring the impact of Medicaid cuts, and we’re ready to help state societies protect coverage for foot and ankle care provided by podiatrists.
- Student Aid Concerns: The bill limits federal financial aid for future doctors, including podiatry students. APMA will continue advocating to address the student debt crisis.
APMA is committed to promoting and protecting the interests of the podiatric medical profession and the patients our members serve. As the Senate was considering the bill last week, APMA shared a letter with Senate leadership outlining our priorities.
Watch your APMA publications and social media for more about how you can support our ongoing advocacy efforts.