ASA Applauds Bipartisan Congressional Action on Anthem 10% Payment Penalty Policy

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) commends and applauds the recent request from members of both the House GOP Doctors Caucus and House Democrat Doctors Caucus urging federal agencies to investigate Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield’s newly announced “facility administrative policy.” This bipartisan effort reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding patient access to high-quality hospital-based care and preventing policies that undermine the intent of the No Surprises Act.

ASA strongly agrees with the concerns outlined in the formal communication, which highlight the harmful consequences of Anthem’s approach—placing hospitals and physician groups in untenable positions and threatening continuity of care for patients across the country. These punitive measures risk destabilizing emergency and specialty services, particularly in rural and underserved communities, and could result in delays in care.

This congressional action aligns closely with ASA’s recent meeting with Anthem and its ongoing advocacy to reverse this ill-advised policy. ASA will continue working with policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure fair contracting practices that protect patients and preserve access to safe, timely anesthesia care.