The debt ceiling negotiations are accelerating in Washington and a deficit reduction deal could be imminent. Clearly, from news reports, we know that Medicare cuts are under serious consideration, including the imposition of a home health co-payment.
The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, and the Congressional Budget Office have all supported a copayment as a deficit reduction measures. Also on the table, as reported in today’s Boston Globe, a substantial cut to medical education funding for Massachusetts teaching hospitals. Given the clear evidence that imposing copayments can lead to delaying accesses to needed services (adding costs longer term), home health must send a message to their Senators and Representative urging them to oppose a home health co-pays in deficit reduction negotiations.
Given that these decisions may be made as early as next week, we are asking that you contact our federal officials, especially Senators Kerry and Brown today.
You may send a message using the NAHC Legislative Action Network (NAHC LAN). To oppose home health co-pays and payment cuts, click here. The sample messages found on the NAHC LAN should be personalized to provide members of Congress with your background and the potential impact payment cuts and co-pays would have on senior and disabled Medicare beneficiaries and their families in your state and district.
We suggest also weighing in by phone. When calling, ask to speak to the staffer who handles Medicare issues. You may obtain contact information for your Senators and Representative here: Contact Your Elected Officials. For a sample phone message, click here.
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