Richard Payerchin

ALT Redesigning primary care to “Make America Healthy Again” What the CY 2027 Medicare physician fee schedule request for information means for physicians.

ALT Primary care takes center stage in MAHA The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) calls primary care essential to the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) priority, framing it as key to shifting U.S. health care from reactive “sick care” toward prevention. The CY 2027 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule devotes a full request for information to reimagining how Medicare pays for it.

ALT Office visits don't capture what primary care really does: Since 1992, Medicare has paid for most primary care through standard E/M codes that don't distinguish a one-time visit from an ongoing relationship. CMS added add-on code G2211 in 2024 to help, but says primary care may still be undervalued versus procedural specialties.

ALT Fee-for-service has limits for primary care CMS says fee-for-service doesn't fit primary care's coordinated nature. Past Innovation Center models — from Comprehensive Primary Care through ACO REACH — tested capitated payments, working best inside accountable care organizations.

ALT Primary Care Collaborative graphic titled “PCC applauds ‘bold steps forward’ for primary care.” Three favorable provisions are highlighted: a new path toward hybrid payment, stronger accountable care tools, and investment in whole-person care, including shared medical appointments, health coaching, and behavioral health integration.

ALT Primary Care Collaborative quote graphic on a dark blue background. Ann Greiner, President and CEO, states: “We applaud CMS for recognizing the need to recenter and revalue primary care.”

ALT Primary Care Collaborative graphic titled “PCC says Congress must finish the job.” Three concerns are highlighted: expiration of the temporary conversion factor increase, the need for broader legislative action on sustainable payment reform, and PCC’s commitment to commenting on the proposed rule and CMS request for information.