ASA Sends Formal Request to HHS for Economic Relief From COVID-19

On Sunday, April 12, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) sent a formal communication to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar requesting economic relief and support for physician anesthesiologists during COVID-19.

In the letter, ASA notes that the mandated cessation of elective procedures has put the viability of anesthesia practices in significant jeopardy, and that ASA several mechanisms to provide economic support to practices. Among these mechanisms, ASA suggests payment for loss of work during the pandemic via a grant process, recognition of the increased work, risk and complexity of care provided for COVID-19 patients through enhanced payment rates, and an alternative payment mechanisms in lieu of these as a daily payment to recognize both front-line patient care activities and the unbillable work that is integral to hospital and health system abilities to meet COVID-19 patient needs.

ASA will continue to work with Congress and the Administration on programs including the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund within the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide economic support to anesthesiologists during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the letter.