ePolicy News—March 2026

March 09, 2026

In this issue:  

  • ASCP Urges CMS to Restore Remote Review Authority for Digital Cytology Images

  • USPSTF Meeting Postponed a Third Time 

  • MPHLWC Works to Exempt Healthcare Professionals from New $100,000 H1B Fee 

  • Building Bridges 2026: Strengthening the Laboratory Community through Communication 

  • Exciting Opportunity for Medical Students: AMA Foundation Leadership Development Institute Applications Now Open 

  • ICYMI: Amplifying Others’ Voices to Improve Patient Care: A Q&A with Katerina Kearns, MD  

ASCP Urges CMS to Restore Remote Review Authority for Digital Cytology Images 

The new CMS policy regarding remote review of digital cytology images is scheduled to take effect March 23, 2026. ASCP continues to advocate, arguing that the CMS policy change prohibiting pathologists from remotely reviewing digital cytology images is an overly restrictive interpretation of CLIA statute. Read more.  

USPSTF Meeting Postponed a Third Time 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has postponed its meetings for the third time, further delaying updates to critical preventive care recommendations. This includes the outcome of the review of cervical cancer screening guidelines. These delays have major implications for access to services which rely on USPSTF guidance. Read more.  

MPHLWC Works to Exempt Healthcare Professionals from New $100,000 H-1B Fee 

ASCP, ASCP BOC, and several members of the MPHLWC have joined a bipartisan congressional effort to exempt healthcare professionals from a newly imposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee. The initiative highlights growing concerns that the fee could worsen workforce shortages across the healthcare system. Read more.  

Building Bridges 2026: Strengthening the Laboratory Community through Communication 

ASCP’s Building Bridges series returns in 2026 with a robust lineup of virtual sessions focused on advocacy, leadership, and professional visibility. Designed to equip laboratory professionals with practical communication tools, the program addresses challenges ranging from misinformation to engaging policymakers and health system leaders. Read more.  

Exciting Opportunity for Medical Students: AMA Foundation Leadership Development Institute Applications Now Open 

Medical students have a new opportunity to build leadership skills through the AMA Foundation’s yearlong Leadership Development Institute. The program offers mentorship, national networking, and in person experiences at major AMA meetings. The application deadline is March 27, 2026. Read more.  

ICYMI: Amplifying Others’ Voices to Improve Patient Care: A Q&A with Katerina Kearns, MD 

In June 2025, the American Medical Association confirmed Katerina Kearns, MD, as the Resident and Fellow Section Alternate Delegate to its House of Delegates. In this role, Dr. Kearns represents trainees in national policy discussions, to elevate the voice of the medical laboratory in broader medical conversations. Read more. 

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