House 'Dear Colleague Letter' Sent to CMS with 95 Signatures

Published in Government Relations on October 14, 2021

Yesterday the House ‘Dear Colleague letter’ was sent to HHS/CMS with 95 members of Congress signatures included. Click here to view the finalized letter and the list of supporters. Numerous congressional supporters on the letter sit on key committees like House Energy and Commerce and House Ways and Means.

This letter requests Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to finalize the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) proposed rule that was issued on October 27, 2020.

The rule would establish methodologies for adjusting the fee schedule payment amounts for DMEPOS items furnished in non-competitive bidding areas (non-CBAs) on or after April 1, 2021 or the date immediately following the duration of the public health emergency, whichever is later. This includes the provisions to extend the Medicare 50/50 blended rate for DMEPOS in rural/non-contiguous areas. Additionally, the letter requests CMS to consider additional policies to ensure access to DMEPOS items for Medicare beneficiaries.

Support from congressional members came due to the direct outreach from YOU, state associations, GAP advocates as well as August of Action meetings, AAHomecare and NCART virtual fly-ins. Thanks to all who took the time to meet with their members of Congress and ask for their support. Please continue to build relationships with your congressional offices. Follow-up is key! And a thank you goes a long way. Don’t forget to follow up with your members of Congress with a ‘Thank You’ message today.

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