90+ physician organizations urge extension of enhanced premium tax credits
The AMA, along with more than 90 national medical specialty societies and state medical associations, sent a joint letter (PDF) to congressional leadership urging extension of the enhanced advance premium tax credits (APTCs). These credits have helped more than 24 million Americans afford coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplaces in 2025, including many older patients, those in rural areas, and small business owners.
Without congressional action, the consequences would be severe. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that 4.2 million people would lose coverage, and many more would face steep premium hikes—for example, $2,600 more annually for a family of four earning $64,000 and nearly $17,500 more for a 60-year-old couple earning $80,000. Even patients not receiving APTCs would be impacted as the expiration would destabilize the marketplaces and drive overall premiums higher.
The letter highlights the importance of Congress acting in a way that gives patients, insurers and physicians certainty in advance of the 2026 coverage year. Extending the enhanced credits will help preserve affordability, sustain coverage levels and limit uncompensated care costs for physician practices nationwide. The AMA will continue to advocate strongly for this critical policy.
More articles in this issue
- Sept. 19, 2025: Medicare Payment Reform Advocacy Update
- Sept. 19, 2025: National Advocacy Update
- Sept. 19, 2025: State Advocacy Update
