05/05/2023

Co-Sponsors Wanted: Ask Your Senators to Sign on to New 75/25 Legislation

Source: AAHomecare Insider 5/03/23

As we shared last week, Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) have introduced S.1294, legislation to further extend the Medicare 75/25 blended rate for non-rural, non-CBA suppliers through the end of 2024.

S. 1294 extends relief granted in the 2022 Omnibus budget legislation keeping 75/25 rates for an additional year and provides more stability for suppliers in these areas.  The bill would also impact rates from other payers who are influenced by Medicare rates, including TRICARE and Medicaid programs in more than 20 states.

HME advocates can help us build support by contacting their Senators to ask that they sign on as a co-sponsor for S. 1294.  An email or call to the staffer who handles healthcare issues for your Senator is the most effective way to make a strong impression!

Messaging tips:

• Briefly mention where your company is located, what you provide, and how those products/services support the patient cohort you serve.
• Challenges your company is facing with rising costs for products, labor, shipping/delivery, and other operational requirements vs. current reimbursement rates.
• Concerns about your continued ability to serve patients in your community under current reimbursement rates that don’t reflect market reality.
• Ask your Senator to co-sponsor S. 1294:
• Introduced by Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)
• Extends the 75/25 blended rate for non-bid, non-rural relief included in the 2022 Omnibus legislation by one year (until the end of 2024)

See our Issue Brief for additional background on the need for this legislation.

Please contact Gordon Barnes at gordonb@aahomecare.org for contact info for Senate healthcare staff.

You can also ask your colleagues to send a message to their Senators using our Voter Voice advocacy system.  A pre-drafted message is included; users are encouraged to add their own perspectives and experiences.