AARC Endorses H.R. 1041

IRVING, Texas—The American Association for Respiratory
Care has joined the list of more than two dozen patient and
advocacy groups endorsing H.R. 1041, the bill to repeal competitive
bidding. In a letter to Rep. Jason Altmire, D-Pa., who introduced
the legislation with Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Pa.,
AARC President Karen Stewart said the organization is
“concerned that the program will have a negative impact on
the pulmonary patient’s ambulatory care.” According to
an AARC statement, “the Association fears the current law,
which views oxygen and oxygen equipment as
‘commodities’ subject to the lowest bid price, will
stifle technological innovation, making it harder for patients who
require home oxygen to leave their homes and lead active lives. The
program also has the potential to limit medically appropriate
therapy for Medicare beneficiaries who need it.” Read the
AARC’s
full statement.