WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 22, 2018)—The Council for Quality Respiratory Care (CQRC) today released a new report that highlights the urgent need for policymakers to reform Medicare’s outdated payment methodology. The report outlines how the current payment system, called the competitive bidding program (CBP), restricts patients’ access to the oxygen and medical equipment they need, despite the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) best intentions.

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. (March 22, 2018)—3B Medical has closed on a deal for the exclusive global licensing and acquisition of VBOX, a Minnesota-based research and development company. Through a decade of research and development, VBOX has amassed a number of patents for innovation in the portable oxygen product space, a billion-dollar industry.

Via AAHomecare, WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 22, 2018)—Congressional leaders have concluded negotiations on omnibus legislation, and have just released bill text that Congress will vote on this week. While the legislative text does not include provisions from HR 4229, Capitol Hill sources have shared report language accompanying the bill that reaffirms Congressional interest in providing relief for rural suppliers, as noted on page 49 of the report section related to HHS:

LAS VEGAS (March 21, 2018)—The intuitive Medtrade Spring app (sponsored by Philips [Booth # 613 at Medtrade Spring]) is back. Download the Medtrade Spring 2018 app and plan your time at the expo and conference.

Via AAHomecare, WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 21, 2018)—Omnibus spending legislation has still not been released as Wednesday in Washington goes to press. Congressional and media sources currently predict text will be finalized and available this evening, but the timing for release has been a moving target all day.

ST. LOUIS (March 20, 2018)—Responsive Respiratory introduces Store ‘N Stay Cylinder Rack. The Store ‘N Stay rack is an economical alternative to a metal or plastic rack for the storage of cylinders in the patient’s home. The heavy-duty, moisture-resistant cardboard rack features a simple set up with a pop-open and lock in place design for ease of use and durability.

SPARTANBURG, S.C.—(March 20, 2018) QS/1 continues to be at the forefront of pharmacy innovation, having received Level 2 Capability from Community Care of North Carolina (CCNC) for the Pharmacist eCare Plan.

The Pharmacist eCare Plan is a program that standardizes documentation of patient information and facilitates the exchange between healthcare providers and pharmacists. The goal is to advance care coordination, improve patient outcomes, and reduce overall healthcare costs.