Published on April 30, 2025
The Latest in ASTCT Advocacy: April 2025
by ASTCT Advocacy Update
CMS Transmittal on the National Coverage Decision for MDS
Following advocacy efforts by ASTCT and our partners, CMS has released updates to correct technical errors in its expanded Medicare coverage for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS). These corrections address unintended restrictions on physician donor selection and transplant settings that had caused claim denials.
If your organization experienced denials related to these issues, we encourage you to resubmit claims for reprocessing. For full details, including updates to the NCD spreadsheets, click below to view the official transmittal.
Read the Full CMS Update
ASTCT’s Statement on Dr. Peter Marks’ Departure from the FDA
ASTCT recently issued a statement recognizing Dr. Peter Marks for his contributions to the cell and gene therapy field during his tenure as Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). His leadership and commitment to advancing science have made a lasting impact on our field and on the lives of countless patients.
Dr. Marks has been a steadfast advocate for innovative, science-driven policy and efficient regulatory pathways, helping ensure timely access to potentially curative therapies for patients with few or no options. His departure will be deeply felt across our community.
Read the Full Statement
Your Voice Makes a Difference: Support ASTCT’s Letter to Congress on NIH Funding
ASTCT recently sent a letter to congressional leaders, asking for their support in maintaining National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.
To date, over 330 letters to state leaders have been sent by advocates like you, reinforcing the need to protect NIH funding.
We encourage you to keep the momentum going. Click below to send a communication to your state leaders telling them that you do not support the proposed budget cuts to NIH. By sending a message to your state leaders, you help advance our shared mission to sustain bone marrow and stem cell transplant and cellular therapy research, ensure patient access and promote the development of transformative, life-saving therapies.
Take Action
Join ASTCT's Hill Day this September
ASTCT invites all interested members to participate in our 2025 Hill Day, taking place September 9–10 in Washington, D.C. This is a valuable opportunity to advocate on behalf of our field and make your voice heard on Capitol Hill.
The experience kicks off on September 9 with a comprehensive preparation session led by ASTCT’s Committee on Government Relations (GR) and our Government Relations Director. This briefing will equip you with the knowledge and messaging you need to effectively engage with policymakers.
On September 10, participants will meet with members from both House and Senate offices from their home districts and states to discuss key policy priorities. We anticipate that the 2025 agenda will focus on:
- NIH Funding
- Accelerating Kids' Access to Care Act
- Alleviating Barriers to Caregivers Act
If you’re interested in participating, please complete the survey and our team will follow up with additional details. Visit the ASTCT website to learn more about Hill Day.
Take the Survey
Upcoming Policy and Regulatory Webinars
ASTCT upcoming webinars will keep you informed about upcoming rulings and ASTCT tools.
Payer Relations Webinar | Coming Late Summer
Join us for the next installment of our "Ask a Peer" series, featuring best practices and real-world insights on navigating payer challenges.
IPPS Webinar | Coming Mid-May
Once the FY 2025 IPPS rule is available, we’ll break down what it means for your practice and what changes will be implemented for reimbursement.
HSCT Billing Guide Webinar | July
Get a first look at the brand new HSCT Billing Guide prepared by ASTCT's Administrators SIG in partnership with NMDP. The guide provides information on how to apply the latest billing guidance for stem cell transplant in your center.
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