Navigating the Fast-Paced News Cycle: Key Updates for Our Industry

Published in Government Relations on March 06, 2025

By: Ike Isaacson

As we move into the new year, the headlines are coming at us fast and furious. The constant stream of information from Washington, D.C. can be overwhelming and often confusing. Topics such as tariffs, budgets, and DOGE dominate the news, making it feel like a game of "follow the bouncing ball." 

Amidst this incessant back and forth, it is easy to become desensitized to the continuous stream of orders and changes. However, our industry must remain focused on our priorities. We need to sift through the daily news to identify the items that will have the most significant impact on us. Staying vigilant and up to date is crucial. 

To that end, here are a few key issues to watch: 

DME Relief Act (75/25 Non-Rural Medicare Blended Rate) 

Currently, this relief will not be included in the March package. In fact, it is uncertain whether there will be a package at all. With the House having passed a resolution for the "One Bill" budget, the focus has shifted to meeting the savings obligations outlined in that document. As industry advocates, we must now turn our attention to working with the 119th Congress. This involves securing champions, some of whom may be new, for our 75/25 Blended Rate request. With Senator John Thune now in a Senate leadership position, we are seeking a new champion in that chamber. Our advocacy partners are helping us identify these champions and begin our efforts anew. 

Simultaneously, there is a concerted effort to pursue administrative changes. Our partners at the American Association for Homecare have established strong relationships within CMS, and we are supporting their efforts to secure the much-needed DME relief. 

Regardless of the path we take, we need the voices and actions of our State Associations and every member of the industry. This is a full-court press, and we need everyone to join the fight.

Tariffs 

The administration's recent memorandum setting tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China has sparked considerable conversation, confusion, and concern within the DMEPOS industry. As details emerge about which products will be affected, VGM has requested an exemption for medical devices. Our industry is known for providing quality service and equipment with significant cost savings compared to facility-based care. By promoting aging in place, we help keep people healthy at a fraction of the cost of other settings. We urge you to contact your Congressperson and request that our products remain exempt from the potential cost increases associated with tariffs. 

Custom Rehab Technology 

VGM is collaborating with our partners at NCART to create a more streamlined and efficient repair and prior authorization process for our CRT providers. While this is currently a state-by-state effort, there is some federal-level discussion regarding the "right to repair." VGM is working with Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to ensure that our provider community's voice is heard in this discussion. 

Senator Duckworth and Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) have introduced S. 247, the Titanium/Carbon Fiber Bill. This bill allows consumers to choose and pay for custom upgrades without adding to Medicare expenses. A corresponding House bill (H.R. 1703) has been introduced by Representatives John Joyce (R-OH) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL). This bill mirrors the Senate bill's language, facilitating smoother passage through committees and on the floor. We will continue to advocate for this consumer-focused bill and ask our members to do the same. 

HHS Rescinds policy on Public Participation in Rule Making  

Newly minted HHS Director Robert Kennedy released a notice that the department will be rescinding the public participation in rule making policy. In short, this means that the department no longer must release potential changes to rules for public comment. The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) allows a department to exercise this waiver in “matters relating to agency management or personnel or to public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts.” It also allows the agency to forgo these requirements for “good cause” when the agency finds that the procedures are “impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.” 

The implications of this decision could have significant impact on the DME Industry. VGM will be monitoring notices and information coming from HHS as rules can be made and released now with little to no public input or knowledge. While the impact of this decision is yet to be seen, it is imperative that the industry continue to demand transparency and disclosure form the administration. 

As always, your VGM Government Team is working diligently on your behalf. We have been traveling the country to meet with you and your congressional staff, as well as traveling to D.C. to meet face-to-face with our congressional champions. Your voice is vital, and we encourage you to share your stories. We are here to support you in hosting on-site visits with your legislators and their staff. Building local relationships is key to our success, and your stories and experiences in serving people in their homes will highlight the important work you do. 

Together, we must continue to fight for those we serve, for our industry, and for each other. Together, we can be Champions of Change.