WASHINGTON, DC – Addressing CMS’ plan to apply competitive bidding-derived rates to non-competitive bidding areas, due to take effect in January of 2016, remains a top priority for the Association. 

Expanding the reach of Medicare bidding rates to rural areas – cutting prices by an average of 45 percent – will be a devastating development for homecare providers and patients alike.

In light of this action by Medicare, Congressional representatives need to hear from every home medical equipment provider and every Medicare patient about the effects of this latest round of cuts on America’s homecare infrastructure.

 To that end, AAHomecare is urging providers everywhere – and especially those in rural areas – to tell Congress we need action to keep CMS from recklessly imposing bidding rates on providers without the benefit of the exclusive contracts or increased volume of business that bid winners receive to soften the blow of lower rates, especially given the increased costs associated with providing and servicing DME in rural areas.

 We urge you to make contact with your Congressional representatives during the upcoming recess/district work periods for both the House & Senate – June 29 through July 3 and July 31 through Sept. 4. 

You can find information on your members of Congress via the Congressional directory in the AAHomecare Action Center.

Ashley Plauché Joins AAHomecare Team
WASHINGTON, DC – Stepping into a newly created role as manager of Government Affairs is Ashley Plauché, an established executive leader with more than 12 years experience working in the homecare industry. In this position she will manage three association councils while providing support on government relations initiatives affecting AAHomecare members and the HME community.

With the addition of this new role, AAHomecare President Tom Ryan, hopes to improve the flow of information between Washington and the homecare community. A passionate advocate, Plauché has quickly become an outspoken champion for homecare issues affecting seniors and those who serve them. Her advocacy background, coupled with her experience in both homecare and communications, are what led the Association to choose her for the position.