VGM & ASSOCIATESHealthcare MSO

Recognizing DME Providers: Advocacy Leads to Proclamation

Published in Member Communities on January 08, 2025

Recognizing DME Providers: Advocacy Leads to Proclamation

VGM member Jami Tharp, CEO and Owner of Choice Medical in Ames, IA, successfully worked with the Story County Board of Supervisors to recognize November 6 as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Providers Day. Tharp’s goal was to bring recognition to DME providers in healthcare, who she feels are often overlooked in the healthcare industry. 

“I wanted to bring recognition to my staff and all other DME providers who are often overlooked in the broader healthcare landscape,” said Tharp. “This cause is very dear to my heart, having been in the DME business for many years. I just wanted to ensure that all DME professionals know they are a crucial part of healthcare and are appreciated.”

Tharp has been a dedicated advocate for DME providers, organizing annual events with Representative Randy Feenstra (R-IA-4). Feenstra has been a consistent supporter of DME legislation, largely due to Tharp’s efforts and the work of her team at Choice Medical. Tharp maintains regular communication with Feenstra’s staff and hosts him at her location each year to discuss and promote DME-related issues.

The initiative led by Tharp and Choice Medical is inspirational, highlighting their commitment to recognizing and supporting DME professionals. VGM & Associates is proud to have all at Choice Medical as part of something bigger!

Click here to read the original article from VGM Government Relations, “Choice Medical in Ames, IA Designates November 6th as Durable Medical Equipment Providers Day.”

TAGS

  1. advocacy
  2. member spotlight
  3. vgm

Get Connected

Stay up-to-date on the latest resources and news provided by VGM & Associates.

Sign Up for Email

From Our Experts

A Letter From the President: May 2025 thumbnail A Letter From the President: May 2025 Lindy Tentinger shares information on VGM Heartland Conference, operational efficiency, diversification of revenue streams, and more. Heartland Zeroes in on Cybersecurity, AI thumbnail Heartland Zeroes in on Cybersecurity, AI With cyberattacks escalating and AI innovation, VGM's Heartland Conference is expanding its focus on digital preparedness. VGM & Associates Releases Playbook on Cost of Doing Business thumbnail VGM & Associates Releases Playbook on Cost of Doing Business “VGM Playbook: Cost Management Trends, Strategies, and Solutions,” is designed to help VGM members optimize healthcare operations and manage costs effectively. Heartland Preview: New Tracks, Plus Return of Keynote & Pre-Conference thumbnail Heartland Preview: New Tracks, Plus Return of Keynote & Pre-Conference It's not just another year for the 2025 VGM Heartland Conference – it's a handoff, a love letter to the small-town Midwest conference and a map for the industry's future. The Impact of HHS Cuts to the ACL on the Limb Loss Community and O&P Industry thumbnail The Impact of HHS Cuts to the ACL on the Limb Loss Community and O&P Industry As we navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare policy, I want to address a critical issue that directly affects both the limb loss community and the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) industry. Achieving Results That Matter: Insights for HME Providers thumbnail Achieving Results That Matter: Insights for HME Providers This article explores strategies for achieving sustainable growth. OPGA, Össur Name Recipients of O&P Grants thumbnail OPGA, Össur Name Recipients of O&P Grants Avery-Claire Littleton and Nicole Bakovich have been selected as the recipients of two O&P grants. Adventure and Connections Await at Heartland 2025 thumbnail Adventure and Connections Await at Heartland 2025 This year's Heartland Conference promises an exciting lineup of activities designed to foster connections, inspire innovation, and create lasting memories.

Be Part of Something Bigger

Become a Member