Thank legislators who supported legislation to extend moratorium on Medicare sequester cuts

April 21, 2021

On April 13, the House approved H.R. 1868, amended legislation extending the moratorium on the 2% Medicare sequester cuts through the 2021, adding in approximately $158 million more in Medicare payments to HME suppliers over the rest of the year. The updated bill passed the House by a 384 to 38 margin, echoing its overwhelming approval by the Senate in late March, with 90 in favor and just two against.

This impressive show of support presents an opportunity to thank nearly 90% of Congress, remind these offices that the HME industry has played a role in lessening the spread and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and continue to build recognition for HME on Capitol Hill.

Please consider sending a brief email to healthcare staffers for Members of Congress who voted for H.R. 1868. You need only make these points:

  • Thank them for the legislator’s support for the bill – something along the lines of “I want to pass along my thanks for Sen./Rep. _____ ‘s recent vote in favor of H.R. 1868, extending the pause on the 2% Medicare sequester cuts through 2021.”
  • Note that this legislation will help your company and other HME providers continue to effectively serve patients who are still being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can remind legislators that your company has helped reduce the strain on hospitals in your area by providing home-based care and also highlight any specific contributions in caring for individuals with COVID-19 (especially if you are in the respiratory space). You can also talk about new requirements or costs associated with serving your communities during the pandemic.
  • Close by noting that you look forward to working with them to improve Medicare reimbursement policy for home medical equipment and ensure sustainable rates that will allow you to continue to provide effective care.

See the House vote and Senate vote to find out if your legislators are among the ones who voted for the legislation. Contact Gordon Barnes at gordonb@aahomecare.org for contract info for Congressional healthcare staff or assistance in developing your message.

This is a great chance to make a quick, positive connection with your legislators! We urge you to take advantage of this opportunity!