SFG Comments on the CY 2026 Physician Fee Schedule: Advancing Medical-Dental Integration in Medicare
On September 11, 2025, the Santa Fe Group submitted formal comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on the CY 2026 Physician Fee Schedule (CMS-1832-P). Our letter applauds CMS for continued progress on Medical-Dental Integration in Medicare and for maintaining the annual pathway to clarify payment for dental care when it is integral to covered medical services. We also support the proposal that brings oral health into primary care quality programs by incorporating risk assessment, intraoral screening, counseling, documentation, and referrals within routine visits.
Building on the growing evidence that oral health improves outcomes and lowers costs, the Santa Fe Group encourages CMS to move quickly on additional clarifications. In particular, we outline the case for diabetes care, where timely dental treatment is closely linked to better control of complications and reduced hospital use. We will continue to collaborate with CMS and our partners to advance whole person care and equitable access for older adults and people with disabilities.
Read the full comment letter and details of our recommendations.
