Quality Is Required (NAPSA)—It’s hard to create a new government program that nearly everyonedislikes, yet federal regulators have done just that. A new bidding system in Medicare for durable medical equipment has drawn criticism from economists, patient advo- .& ee cates, and members of Congress alike. Critics say the system designed by Medicare cuts payment rates so deeply thatit stifles competition and reduces access to quality care. a J a a i] | PF | wants to use to pay for home care is flawed and patients will suffer. The program affects millions of Americans who depend on oxygen therapy, tube feeding, power wheelchairs, CPAP devices, walkers and mail-order diabetic supplies. These are products that allow Medicare beneficiaries to remain safe and independent at home, which saves Medicare dollars. More than 130 members of Congress support H.R. 1041, a bill to repeal this bidding system. The bill has strong support from Republicans, Democrats and health care provider groups such as the American Association for Homecare. To learn more, visit www. aahomecare.org/athome. Totell your elected officials what you think of this or other issues, visit www.capwiz.com/aahomecare.
