AAHomecare: H.R. 6641 Support is a ‘Top Priority’
The House reconvening next week creates a window of opportunity to get co-sponsors for the 90/10 reimbursement bill.
With the House of Representatives reconvening next week and in session for five out of the next six weeks, the American Association for Homecare reported that the HME industry has a critical opportunity to help garner more co-sponsors for H.R 6641 before lawmakers take a two-week break in mid-April.
“This will be a critical period for building co-sponsor support for H.R. 6641 and raising the legislation’s profile with House leadership and members on key committees of jurisdiction,” a statement from the association read. “f you are represented by a legislator on the House Energy & Commerce or Ways & Means committees, your outreach is especially needed.”
Launched into the House by Reps. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) and Paul Tonko (D-N.Y) as The DMEPOS Relief Act of 2022, H.R. 6641, would apply 90/10 blended Medicare reimbursement for items in the 13 product categories CMS did not award contracts for in Round 2021 of competitive bidding. The increased rates would apply to claims from Jan. 1, 2022 to Dec. 31, 2023.
To help HME advocates, the association has posted resources and messaging, as well as an updated Issue Brief to its Campaign Central page. Additionally, AAHomecare’s Action Center lets providers send a pre-drafted message to lawmakers.
“A brief, personally drafted e-mail to your Representative’s staffer who deals with health care issues is the most effective initial step you can take in this process,” AAHomecare noted in its statement. “This legislation gives us an opportunity to bring Medicare reimbursements rates closer in line with the market realities facing the HME industry. If you haven’t yet reached out to your Representative, please commit to take action when the House returns from recess next week.”