The Government Shutdown is Over – What’s New and What’s Next?

ACEP is helping emergency physicians across the country navigate the rapidly changing health policy landscape. The latest episode of the Capitol Rounds webinar series is available now.

Throughout the longest government shutdown in US history, ACEP tracked and explained the significant ripple effect on practices and patients, including delayed payments and telehealth policy changes. As federal programs and funding resume, ACEP is preparing resources, addressing questions and advocating for as few interruptions to your practice as possible.

The shutdown did not pause ACEP advocacy at all. We are pushing back on Anthem’s misguided out-of-network penalty with leading physician groups and urging the insurance behemoth to reconsider its unlawful policy that could jeopardize patient access to care and leave you forced to accept their lowest dollar payments.

ACEP is building on a long history of work to eliminate noncompete clauses in health care. After our recent statement, we shared your concerns directly with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prioritize your autonomy and efforts to make sure every emergency physician is treated fairly by their employer and has the freedom to work in the communities they seek.

The webinar also addressed some questions about the history and impact of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS’) 2026 physician fee schedule, including ACEP opposition to the changes and more on how they impact ED services.

At the state level, ACEP is helping chapters navigate the new Rural Health Transformation program and find their voice in efforts to ensure emergency physicians are leading care teams in every emergency department.

ACEP is advocating fiercely for you and the patients you serve. We are proud to be your voice in Washington, and we are stronger with your participation.

Here are three ways you can stay informed and speak out today:

• Save the date for LAC26! ACEP's Leadership & Advocacy Conference will return to the Grand Hyatt, Washington, April 26-28, 2026.
• Join the ACEP 911 Grassroots Network for updates and tools to engage your lawmakers, including the 911 Grassroots Network weekly newsletter.
• Learn more about the urgent issues and contact your legislators directly through the Advocacy Action Center.

Related:

• ACEP is Your Voice in Washington, DC
• ACEP Federal Advocacy Overview
• ACEP State Legislative Dashboard