August of Action Wraps Up with Key Meetings

Published in Government Relations on September 06, 2024

Meeting with Rep. Mike Thompson 

Earlier this week, CAMPS members met with Rep. Mike Thompson at his Napa office to discuss DMEPOS legislation, H.R.5555. Rep. Thompson, a member of the influential House Ways and Means Committee, engaged in a productive meeting with Paul Ondrusek (Regional Account Manager at VGM and President of CAMPS), Todd Dodds (Owens Medical), and Tony Lewis (New West Medical). 

Paul Ondrusek highlighted the personal connection and the discussion on access and reimbursement concerns within the DMEPOS industry. Todd Dodds appreciated Rep. Thompson’s openness and commitment to addressing H.R.5555, emphasizing the shared goal of improving patient care in underserved areas. Tony Lewis praised the VGM Government & Regulatory team for their preparation, noting Rep. Thompson’s understanding and support for their cause. 

_{Rep. Mike Thompson, Paul Ondrusek (VGM), Tony Lewis (New West Medical), Todd Dodds (Owens Medical)} 

Meeting with Rep. Brett Guthrie 

Yesterday, King Drug in Hartford, KY hosted a meeting with Rep. Brett Guthrie who serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee. Attendees included Steve Wiggens, Amy Willis, Ryan Radcliff (all from King Drug), Rep. Brett Guthrie, Ike Isaacson (VGM), Jay Witter (AAHomecare), and Thad Connally (former KY DME owner and advocate). 

Ike Isaacson reported that the meeting was impactful, as Rep. Guthrie, already a known supporter of the industry, gained further insight into the real-world experiences of DME suppliers.  

Special thanks were extended to the advocates and King Drug for hosting the event during business hours. 

_{Steve Wiggens, Amy Willis, Ryan Radcliff (King Drug), Rep. Brett Guthrie, Ike Isaacson (VGM), Jay Witter (AAHomecare), and Thad Connally} 

As the August recess ends, there are still ample opportunities to engage with your legislators before the upcoming election. Throughout October and leading up to the election, legislators will be back in their home states, providing a perfect window to connect with them before the end of the year.  Reach out to emily.harken@vgm.com at VGM if you would like assistance contacting your legislator or setting up an on-site visit. 

TAGS

1. advocacy
2. dmepos
3. legislation
4. vgm government