Skip to main content

VGM & ASSOCIATESHealthcare MSO

Search GO

Search GO

LEARN ABOUT VGM

Shutdown Ends, Telehealth Prevails as Pres. Trump Signs Funding Bill

Published in Government Relations on February 04, 2026

The four-day partial federal government shutdown officially ended on Feb. 3, 2026, after President Donald Trump signed a $1.2 trillion funding package that reopens most federal agencies and restores key programs.

A victory for patients and providers, the legislation extends Medicare telehealth flexibilities through Dec. 31, 2027, ensuring continued access to virtual care, expanded provider eligibility, audio-only options, and ongoing telehealth services.

VGM in DC

This legislation not only resolves the shutdown but also provides stability for patients and healthcare providers by safeguarding essential telehealth services for the coming years. By extending these flexibilities, the bill ensures continued access to convenient, reliable care, especially for rural communities, seniors, and those who depend on virtual visits to manage their health.

This was a VGM Government priority, and we are incredibly grateful to all of our members that advocated for their patients to have access to this much-needed healthcare service!

From Our Experts

Proposed LCD Changes to Impact Seat Elevation on Group 2 Non-Complex Power Wheelchair Bases thumbnail

Proposed LCD Changes to Impact Seat Elevation on Group 2 Non-Complex Power Wheelchair Bases The DME Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) issued a proposed Local Coverage Determination (LCD) change for seat elevation use on group 2 non-complex power wheelchair bases (K0830, K0831 and K0108 on group 2 non-complex HD bases).

John Quinlan Named 2026 Van G. Miller Homecare Champion thumbnail

John Quinlan Named 2026 Van G. Miller Homecare Champion AAHomecare announced earlier this week that John Quinlan of Quinlan's Pharmacy in New York has been selected as the recipient of this year's Van G. Miller Award. John has been a valued VGM member for many years, and his leadership within the DMEPOS community has made a meaningful impact on patients, providers, and the industry as a whole. His commitment to quality care, patient access, and industry advocacy consistently sets him apart.

Legislative Update On DMEPOS Bills – Letter To CMS Admin Dr. Oz To Delay Competitive Bidding Program thumbnail

Legislative Update On DMEPOS Bills – Letter To CMS Admin Dr. Oz To Delay Competitive Bidding Program Many of you have already contacted your legislators in support of key DME legislation, including the DMEPOS Relief Act, the Choices for Increased Mobility Act, and the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act. We now have another important issue to bring to your attention.

CMS Revises Nebulizer Policy and ABN Form thumbnail

CMS Revises Nebulizer Policy and ABN Form CMS has issued an update regarding revisions to the CMS Nebulizer Policy Article and guidance on the Advanced Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) Form. For dates of service on or after Feb. 1, 2026, suppliers must include the KX, GA, or GZ modifier to claims for the following nebulizer items:

CMS Releases Updated Telehealth FAQ After Funding Bill Extends Flexibilities Through 2027 thumbnail

CMS Releases Updated Telehealth FAQ After Funding Bill Extends Flexibilities Through 2027 Earlier this week, Congress extended Medicare telehealth flexibilities through Dec, 31, 2027, as part of the newly signed federal funding bill. In response, CMS has released updated Telehealth Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to provide clarity on what the extension means for both patients and providers.

CMS Releases New HCPCS thumbnail

CMS Releases New HCPCS The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released an update adding eight new oxygen HCPCS codes to the Required Face-to-Face and Written Order Prior to Delivery List and adding five new orthoses and two HCPCS codes to the Required Prior Authorization List. The changes go into effect April 13, 2026.

Meet the Candidates: Rep. Ashley Hinson Visits VGM During U.S. Senate Campaign thumbnail

Meet the Candidates: Rep. Ashley Hinson Visits VGM During U.S. Senate Campaign Waterloo, Iowa — On Wednesday, VGM Group welcomed employees, local DME suppliers, and community guests for the latest installment of its Meet the Candidates series. The featured guest was Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), who currently represents Iowa's 2nd Congressional District and is now running for the U.S. Senate following Sen. Joni Ernst's decision not to seek reelection in 2026.

Grassroots Accountability Program Wants YOU! Become a DMEPOS Advocate thumbnail

Grassroots Accountability Program Wants YOU! Become a DMEPOS Advocate Are you interested in politics or curious about how government really works behind the scenes The Grassroots Accountability Program (GAP) is a great opportunity to expand your civic knowledge, build meaningful relationships with your state and federal legislators, and make a direct impact on the future of the DMEPOS industry.

Give your business an advantage over the competition.

Become a Member