Ivy Health Celebrates New CMS Code for Pediatric Speech Therapy
Ivy Health is celebrating a crucial victory in the realm of pediatric healthcare as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved a new code specifically designed for pediatric speech therapy, designated G0903. This milestone, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, comes as part of the new Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2027. This decision is a result of a collective advocacy effort through the Speech Therapy Action Taskforce (STAT), which brought together more than 4,000 voices and over ten provider groups united by the common goal of making speech therapy accessible for every child.
The decision from CMS is particularly significant in light of concerns raised regarding a proposed 13% cut in reimbursement for pediatric speech therapy services, which had raised alarms about the potential impact on children's access to necessary care. Ivy Health's role in leading the STAT initiative underscores their commitment to advocating for children's wellbeing and ensuring that families have the resources they need to support their children's communication development.
The voice of the community played a pivotal role in this advocacy. Clinicians, families, and supporters shared firsthand accounts of the critical importance of speech therapy in helping children communicate effectively, develop essential skills, and forge connections with their surroundings. According to Jason Strauss, CEO of Ivy Health, "When we saw what was at stake for children's access to speech therapy, we knew we couldn't sit on the sidelines. As a parent of children who have needed speech therapy, I have witnessed the transformative impact this care can provide. Thousands united because this matter, and we are profoundly grateful to CMS for listening to our concerns. This is a win worth celebrating for every family, clinician, and organization that rallied behind our cause."
In his remarks, Dr. Dan Murrey, Chief Medical Officer of Ivy Health, emphasized the distinction between pediatric patients and adults, stating, "Children aren't simply small adults, and the care they need shouldn't be treated as though they are. Pediatric speech therapy requires an approach built around each child's unique developmental needs. We appreciate CMS and the American Medical Association for acknowledging this critical difference. We are thankful for everyone involved in raising awareness about the necessity of keeping these services available."
Ivy Health is also affirming its gratitude towards CMS for valuing public input throughout this process. They recognize the contributions of every family, clinician, and partner who amplified this advocacy message, highlighting the power of community collaboration in driving policy changes. The Speech Therapy Action Taskforce remains open to engaging with other healthcare organizations interested in supporting similar advocacy initiatives in the future.
For individuals seeking more information, resources can be found on the STAT website at https://stat-usa.org/. This victory is not just a procedural change; it represents a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for children in need of speech therapy across the nation.
About Ivy Health
Ivy Health is dedicated to bringing together reputable therapy providers with a singular mission: helping individuals make progress, achieve their goals, and live life to its fullest potential. Ivy Pediatric Therapy specializes in physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as ABA services for children, while Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy focuses on outpatient physical and occupational therapy for adults. Learn more about Ivy Health and its services at IvyHealth.com.
The decision from CMS is particularly significant in light of concerns raised regarding a proposed 13% cut in reimbursement for pediatric speech therapy services, which had raised alarms about the potential impact on children's access to necessary care. Ivy Health's role in leading the STAT initiative underscores their commitment to advocating for children's wellbeing and ensuring that families have the resources they need to support their children's communication development.
The voice of the community played a pivotal role in this advocacy. Clinicians, families, and supporters shared firsthand accounts of the critical importance of speech therapy in helping children communicate effectively, develop essential skills, and forge connections with their surroundings. According to Jason Strauss, CEO of Ivy Health, "When we saw what was at stake for children's access to speech therapy, we knew we couldn't sit on the sidelines. As a parent of children who have needed speech therapy, I have witnessed the transformative impact this care can provide. Thousands united because this matter, and we are profoundly grateful to CMS for listening to our concerns. This is a win worth celebrating for every family, clinician, and organization that rallied behind our cause."
In his remarks, Dr. Dan Murrey, Chief Medical Officer of Ivy Health, emphasized the distinction between pediatric patients and adults, stating, "Children aren't simply small adults, and the care they need shouldn't be treated as though they are. Pediatric speech therapy requires an approach built around each child's unique developmental needs. We appreciate CMS and the American Medical Association for acknowledging this critical difference. We are thankful for everyone involved in raising awareness about the necessity of keeping these services available."
Ivy Health is also affirming its gratitude towards CMS for valuing public input throughout this process. They recognize the contributions of every family, clinician, and partner who amplified this advocacy message, highlighting the power of community collaboration in driving policy changes. The Speech Therapy Action Taskforce remains open to engaging with other healthcare organizations interested in supporting similar advocacy initiatives in the future.
For individuals seeking more information, resources can be found on the STAT website at https://stat-usa.org/. This victory is not just a procedural change; it represents a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for children in need of speech therapy across the nation.
About Ivy Health
Ivy Health is dedicated to bringing together reputable therapy providers with a singular mission: helping individuals make progress, achieve their goals, and live life to its fullest potential. Ivy Pediatric Therapy specializes in physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as ABA services for children, while Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy focuses on outpatient physical and occupational therapy for adults. Learn more about Ivy Health and its services at IvyHealth.com.
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