Why is Urgent Care’s recognition in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule significant, and what comes next in policy and practice?

March 23, 2026

In this episode of Zotec Answers, Mark Isenberg, EVP of Healthcare Advocacy at Zotec Partners, is joined by Carla Torres, VP of Client Relationships at Zotec Partners, and Robert Hargraves, Director of Urgent Care Operations at Atlantic Health System. They discuss the recognition of urgent care in the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, and why it marks a major milestone in gaining acknowledgment from CMS. The conversation highlights how strategic advocacy can drive meaningful policy and regulatory progress.

Ready to take the next step in your advocacy journey? Check out our Healthcare Advocacy Toolkit to get involved! Learn more about the Urgent Care Association’s Advocacy efforts

About ZPAC: the Zotec Political Advocacy Committee (ZPAC), dedicates itself to making a difference for physicians and healthcare administrators nationwide. ZPAC advocates for equitable access to healthcare services for all individuals. Stay informed and engaged with ZPAC by following our podcast episodes, blog posts, and speaking engagements on our active Twitter/X and LinkedIn profiles. Together, we can shape policies that support healthcare providers and promote equitable access to quality care for all. To learn more about Zotec Partners, visit our website here.