As the 2026 Tennessee legislative session approaches, the Tennessee Orthopaedic Society (TOS) is actively monitoring a range of legislative and regulatory issues that may significantly affect orthopaedic practice, patient access to care, and the preservation of physician-led care models. These priorities reflect TOS’s ongoing commitment to advocacy, patient safety, and the integrity of musculoskeletal healthcare delivery in Tennessee.
2026 Legislative and Policy Priorities
Payer Downcoding Practices
The Tennessee Orthopaedic Society is monitoring proposed legislation introduced by Representative Howell that seeks to address inappropriate payer downcoding practices. Particular attention is being given to efforts aimed at improving transparency in claims processing and ensuring fair reimbursement for orthopaedic services.
Rural Health Transformation Program
TOS is closely following policy discussions associated with the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). Areas of focus include potential expansions in scope of practice for physician extenders, as well as the possible elimination or modification of Certificate of Need (CON) regulations. These developments may have broad implications for access to orthopaedic care in rural communities.
Scope of Practice Legislation
Newly introduced scope-of-practice proposals related to podiatry are currently under review. TOS is evaluating these proposals to ensure that patient safety, appropriate care coordination, and evidence-based standards of practice remain central considerations.
Athletic Trainers Practice Act
Proposed amendments to the Athletic Trainers Practice Act are being monitored for their potential impact on supervision requirements and the scope of services provided. TOS is assessing how these changes could affect collaborative care models and orthopaedic practice oversight.
Federal Coverage Policies
At the federal level, TOS is tracking Local Coverage Determinations issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), particularly those related to peripheral nerve blocks. Engagement with national specialty organizations is ongoing as appropriate to support aligned advocacy efforts.
Key Administrative and Regulatory Issues
Workers’ Compensation Policies
TOS continues to address concerns related to silent preferred provider organization (PPO) practices and access limitations within the workers’ compensation system, both of which can negatively affect orthopaedic care delivery and patient outcomes.
Medicare Policy Evaluation
The Society is currently evaluating the Medicare Alliance for Beneficiary Access and its policy positions as part of broader national Medicare advocacy considerations. This review will inform future engagement on Medicare-related issues impacting orthopaedic surgeons and their patients.
Member Engagement and Advocacy
The Tennessee Orthopaedic Society will continue to keep members informed as legislative and regulatory issues evolve throughout the 2026 session via its website, email communications, and social media platforms. Advocacy efforts are strongest when guided by member input, and TOS encourages members to share feedback and practice-level insights with Board members and administrative leadership as developments occur.
Members are also encouraged to support the Tennessee Orthopaedic Society Political Action Committee (PAC). PAC contributions are essential to advancing orthopaedic priorities, supporting effective advocacy at the Capitol, and ensuring that the interests of orthopaedic surgeons and their patients are well represented.
To learn more about the TOS PAC or to contribute, members may contact Earl Anderson at eanderson@tennesseeorthopaedicsociety.com.