Features
Heard at the Show
Some of the HME industry's hottest issues were the subject of discussion among Medtrade speakers and attendees alike. Following are comments on just a few of the topics that dominated conversation at the show.
On Medicare reform* —“We don't know what will really happen. [AAHomecare] is
still fighting because we can't let just this small segment of our
industry support the Medicare prescription drug benefit … We
have had quite a few new letters come in against competitive
bidding and also against the copay for home health and a lot of
other issues that are hurting the whole frame of home
care.”
— Kay Cox, president and CEO, American Association for
Homecare
*According to Cox, AAHomecare received 20,000 responses from association members, industry providers, manufacturers and beneficiaries who signed the association's open letter to Congress addresing HME concerns in Medicare reform. While the legislation remained in conference at press time, AAHomecare reported it is likely the final bill will include a CPI freeze on DME followed by competitive bidding. Check HomeCare Monday, our weekly e-newsletter, for the latest updates. To subscribe, visit www.homecaremag.com.
On industry involvement —“The American Association for Homecare and the state associations have not been fully recognized by many DME/HME dealers. These associations take the message to the state capitols and to Washington, D.C.
“If your company is not a member of AAHomecare and your state association, please join now. They represent every dealer, not just those who belong. You must give them the strength they need to speak on your behalf.
“Will both Medicaid and Medicare reduce reimbursements
much further? The answer is ‘yes.’ This is why you must
support the associations who fight for you. Keep in mind at all
times that they are your voice.”
— Sheldon “Shelly” Prial, partner, HPS
Healthcare Management and HomeCare columnist
“When the reimbursement dollars hit bottom, so will the service and so will the patient satisfaction, because as far as I'm concerned, payers want one thing more than they want anything else, and that's not price: They want transparent transactions. They don't want any complaints. They don't want any hassles.
