|
FORWARDED FROM AAHomecare
|
|
Homecare Advocates Make Strong Case
at Washington Fly-in
Follow Up Coming in May
Home medical equipment providers from across the country were in Washington last week for a lobbying "fly-in" to raise concerns about CMS' disastrous bidding program. Providers are particularly incensed by the ridiculously low and unsustainable Round 2 prices released in late January that were created by a distorted bidding process.
The fly-in, organized by VGM & Associates and state association leadership, once again plainly stated the bidding program's severely negative consequences to members of Congress and their staffs. It certainly generated support for forthcoming legislation designed to replace the program with one based on science that has the homecare sector's backing.
One persistent theme that has run through the feedback AAHomecare has received from fly-in participants is that Congressional staffs are well aware of our issues with the bidding program, but some are not convinced of the severity of the problems, or the urgent need for action. Others are uncertain about how much direct impact the bidding program will have on beneficiaries and what harm it will do to other segments of the healthcare delivery system.
While the homecare community has done an excellent job getting the issue on Capitol Hill's radar screen, it's clear that we also need to make stronger efforts to convey just how much damage this program will do to seniors and people with disabilities, as well as the healthcare infrastructure that supports these vulnerable people.
Call Congress Today
If you haven't done so already, please take 10 minutes to call Senate and House offices about the bidding program. You can look up your Representatives and find office phone numbers here. Ask to speak with the person who handles healthcare issues, then let them know what the bidding program will mean for your business, your employees, your patients, and your community. You can also use this issue summary and these talking points to help you formulate your message-but the strongest case you can make will be based on your own experiences and perspective as a homecare provider. Join Your Peers in Washington May 22-23
Learn about the key issues, then connect with and educate your members of Congress in visits to Capitol Hill during the AAHomecare Washington Legislative Conference.
We'll provide all the materials and guidance you will need, and schedule meetings you can attend along with other DME colleagues from your state.
Register today.
|
|
One Capitol Mall, Suite 320
Sacramento, CA 95814 t: (916) 443-2115 f: (916) 444-7462 |
