Championing Change: Please Reach Out to Your Member of Congress TODAY!

Published in Government Relations on October 06, 2023

As we have witnessed over the past few weeks, the landscape of our federal government can shift quickly. From concerns of government shutdowns and continuing budget resolutions, to changes in congressional leadership, one thing does remain constant, our need to be persistent advocates for our business and for those we serve! 

As a service provider in the industry, you understand firsthand the critical role that legislation plays in the success of your business and, more importantly, in the lives of the individuals you serve. Advocating for DME-friendly legislation is not just a matter of economic interest; it's about ensuring that those in need receive the best possible care. As the industry comes together to support S. 1294 and H.R. 5555, your voice is needed more than ever. 

DME businesses are more than just companies; they are lifelines for individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and medical conditions. Your role extends beyond providing equipment; you are a bridge to independence, mobility, and improved quality of life for countless people. YOU are the expert, you have the knowledge, and you have the stories of the direct impact your service and support have for individuals, families, and communities.   

If you haven’t reached out to your congressperson asking them to support S. 1294 or HR. 5555, click here or click on the link below! If you have already done so, we ask that you please do it again. If you would like support or additional information, reach out to your VGM Government and Regulatory team today.   

Message Your Member of Congress

Your voice matters, your communication is key, and your persistence is necessary! 

From Our Experts

State Medicaid Work Requirements: The Impact on Medicaid beneficiaries and their DME Suppliers thumbnail State Medicaid Work Requirements: The Impact on Medicaid beneficiaries and their DME Suppliers Pursuant to the work and community engagement requirements included in H.R.1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued an interim final rule mandating a framework for Medicaid departments to follow when evaluating Medicaid beneficiary eligibility. Beginning no later than January 1, 2027, states must require certain adult Medicaid enrollees to demonstrate at least 80 hours per month of qualifying activity, which may include employment, education, or community... North Carolina Medicaid Rate Floor Extended Through 2029 thumbnail North Carolina Medicaid Rate Floor Extended Through 2029 Earlier this year, it was announced that the North Carolina General Assembly has approved the state budget, securing an additional full two-year extension of the Medicaid fee schedule floor. This protection will now remain in effect until June 30, 2029, guaranteeing that reimbursement rates will continue to be set at 100% of the lesser of the supplier's usual and customary rate or the maximum allowable Medicaid fee-for-service rate. Healthcare Coalition Urges Congress to Advance Supplemental Oxygen Reform thumbnail Healthcare Coalition Urges Congress to Advance Supplemental Oxygen Reform Washington, D.C. — A broad coalition of suppliers, manufacturers, clinicians, and patient advocates is calling on Congress to advance the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act (H.R. 2902 / S. 1406) to protect patient access to life-sustaining oxygen therapy. Summer Advocacy Campaign-Make Your Voice Heard thumbnail Summer Advocacy Campaign-Make Your Voice Heard Summer is the perfect time to connect with your legislators while they are back in their home states and districts. Whether you're building a new relationship or strengthening an existing one, meeting with elected officials is one of the most effective ways to advance policies that protect patient access to home medical equipment and services. Wrapping Up a Successful VGM Heartland Conference & State Leader Summit thumbnail Wrapping Up a Successful VGM Heartland Conference & State Leader Summit One of our busiest and without a doubt, one of our favorite weeks of the year is the VGM Heartland Conference. This year kicked off with a special opportunity to bring together DME state association leaders from across the country for a dedicated pre-conference State Leader Summit. The focus was simple but impactful: collaboration, idea sharing, and real conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing our industry today. CMS Announces Phase 1: Bid Preparation for Round 2028 Competitive Bidding Program thumbnail CMS Announces Phase 1: Bid Preparation for Round 2028 Competitive Bidding Program Be sure to review all materials if you are considering a bid submission for Round 2028. CRT Bill H.R. 1703 Advances Through Full Energy & Commerce Committee thumbnail CRT Bill H.R. 1703 Advances Through Full Energy & Commerce Committee Earlier this week, we shared that H.R. 1703 advanced through the House Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee. We are pleased to report that the bill has continued to gain momentum and has now successfully passed out of the full Energy & Commerce Committee unanimously following today's markup. Important Update: Prior Auth Exemption Process – Deadline Extended to May 26, 2026 thumbnail Important Update: Prior Auth Exemption Process – Deadline Extended to May 26, 2026 CMS has just announced that the deadline to opt out of the prior authorization exemption and continue submitting prior authorization requests has been extended to Tuesday, May 26. This extension only applies to suppliers that received a letter from the DME MACs in early March regarding their prior authorization exemption status.