The American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) is urging stakeholders to continue pushing for support of the 75/25 blended rate as the deadline for government funding legislation approaches.
In a Jan. 10 announcement, AAHomecare said conversations are ongoing for the blended rate that would apply to non-competitive-bidding-area, non-rural suppliers through 2024.
“We have received intelligence that this relief is well positioned to be included in government funding legislation that is slated for consideration by Jan. 19 and remain actively engaged in shoring up support for the 75/25 measure,” the association said. “However, negotiations are ongoing, and there is not a clear path yet for passage of the Medicare extenders relief component.
“AAHomecare members should reach out to the Hill in support of the 75/25 relief and remind members of Congress that the cut is now in effect.”
AAHomecare added that the blended rate would “also bolster Medicaid rates in states that use them as a guideline, as well as for TRICARE and MCO/private payers who are influenced by Medicare rates. Extending these rates will also reinforce the message to CMS [Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services] that a longer-term, market-based solution for the full scope of Medicare rate-making for HME is critically needed.”
The association encouraged stakeholders to continue to communicate with legislators and said almost 2,000 letters had been sent via the Voter Voice advocacy system.
Voter Voice provides a quick and convenient way to reach out to legislators. From the Voter Voice Web site, stakeholders can send a pre-written letter to their legislators or amend the letter with personal experiences and details.