ATLANTA (October 27, 2015)—This year’s annual Homecare Champion Award went to brothers Joey Tart and Billy Tart, co-founders of Family Medical Supply Inc, a home oxygen and home medical equipment company with 17 locations throughout central and eastern North Carolina.
The Homecare Champion Award recognizes AAHomecare members who have made exceptional contributions to the homecare community throughout their careers. A Homecare Champion embodies the spirit of service and caring that are hallmarks of successful leaders in the industry.
Joey, who serves as president at Family Medical, along with Billy, the COO and vice president, have had many Capitol Hill visits, including meetings with staff members who work with Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-NC), a well-known advocate for the HME industry. “You’ve got to go meet your members of Congress,” said Joey Tart at the Stand Up for Homecare reception, held on Tuesday, Oct 27, at the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, during day two of Medtrade. “You can’t give up,” added Billy Tart.
Beth Bowen, executive director of the North Carolina Association for Medical Equipment Services, nominated the Tart brothers for the award. Bowen pointed out that while the brothers operate numerous locations in the Tar Heel state, they still manage to regularly engage their legislators.
“Their advocacy is helped by their community involvement,” she said. “Anyone who is an elected official in their district pays attention, because they are well respected and work hard. Joey and Billy are professionals when it comes to presenting their case, and presenting the industry’s issues, to people who may or may not understand those issues.”
The Stand Up for Homecare reception is the premiere networking event for the HME community, and raises funds that help build mutually supportive relationships with HME consumer/patient groups, as well as enabling outreach and educational efforts aimed at policymakers and the media.
Groups supported by Stand Up for Homecare funds include the National Council on Independent Living, Paralyzed Veterans of America, United Spinal Association, and the American Association of People with Disabilities. These funds have also supported the development of the Save My Medical Supplies program, which has recruited thousands of individuals to help promote HME advocacy priorities.
Visit aahomecare.org and medtrade.com for more information.
—Greg Thompson
