Congress can protect patient access to complex care
By Adrian A. Michael and Hillary Norton
SANTA FE, N.M. — As physicians in New Mexico, we see every day how access to infused medicines determines whether our patients — many of them seniors — living with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases stay healthy or decline.
That access is now in jeopardy.
An upcoming change to Medicare’s payment model could unintentionally undercut the ability of community-based providers to deliver these complex therapies safely, affordably and close to home. Unless Congress acts, countless local clinics may be forced to close — compromising care for patients across the state.
(Originally published by Santa Fe New Mexican, November 16, 2025)