CardioVascular Coalition Applauds CMS for Finalizing Indirect PE Methodology; Calls for Continued Action to Protect Community-Based Cardiovascular Care

Washington, D.C. — The CardioVascular Coalition (CVC) today applauded the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for finalizing its proposal to update the Indirect Practice Expense methodology under the Physician Fee Schedule. The policy represents a significant step toward stabilizing office-based cardiovascular care, which has faced years of compounding cuts despite rising clinical and operational costs.

“This is an important acknowledgment of the real costs associated with delivering advanced cardiovascular care in office settings,” said Dr. Paul Gagne, a CVC board member. “CMS’s decision will help protect access to preventive and minimally invasive treatment for patients—especially those living with peripheral artery disease (PAD).”

CVC also expressed support for CMS’s decision not to implement the outdated Physician Practice Information Survey (PPIS) for CY 2026, a move the Coalition argued would have further distorted payment accuracy for high-acuity specialties.

However, CVC emphasized that more comprehensive reforms are needed. As outlined in its comment letter to CMS, the Coalition continues to urge policymakers to pursue long-term structural change, including removing high-cost supplies and equipment from the PFS.

“This rule is a step forward—but the system remains fragile. Without permanent reform, access to community-based cardiovascular care will continue to decline, especially in underserved areas,” said Dr. Gagne.

The CardioVascular Coalition represents community-based specialists dedicated to advancing high-quality cardiovascular and peripheral artery disease care. Learn more at www.cardiovascularcoalition.com.