Monday, November 3, 2008

ATLANTA--While the election countdown is now just hours away, the National Association of Independent Medical Equipment Suppliers conducted a straw poll at Medtrade last week to see how the presidential wind was blowing.

According to 183 show attendees, it was shifting toward Sen. John McCain. With the poll concluded at 2 p.m. on Thursday, 64 percent of participating voters cast ballots for Republican McCain, with 30 percent favoring Democratic candidate Sen. Barack Obama and 6 percent still undecided.

“But look at this,” said Wayne Stanfield, NAIMES president. “Even though 64 percent voted for McCain to be president, 69 percent said the Democrats will win the White House ... The main thing is, we’ve got to educate Congress on our issues no matter who wins.”

Here is how voters answered NAIMES’ questions on political parties and other issues affecting the industry:

1. Do you think the DME industry will fare better under a Democratic administration?
Yes 44%     No 56%

2. Do you think having a Republican administration and a Democratic Congress is better for the DME industry?
Yes 50%     No 50%

3. Do you feel the Republicans have a tarnished image after the last eight years?
Yes 80%     No 20%

4. Do you feel that the next Congress will repeal competitive bidding?
Yes 47%     No 53%

5. Do you feel that the oxygen cap should be repealed in light of recent cuts?
Yes 60%     No 40%

6. Despite your political position, do you feel that the Democrats will win the White House?
Yes 69%     No 31%

7. Does your representative know you by name and face?
Yes 53%     No 47%