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Volume XXX, Number 7
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THCA Members Hit Capitol Hill for Congressional BriefingFourteen THCA members and staff came to Washington on June 15-16 as part of AHCA’s Congressional Briefing. THCA representatives visited members of the Texas Congressional Delegation and their staffs to build relationships and talk about issues of importance to long term care. Those Congressional leaders who met personally with THCA members included Rep. Lamar Smith (R-San Antonio); Rep. Kevin Brady (R-The Woodlands); Rep. Pete Olson (R-Sugar Land); Rep. Ted Poe (R-Humble); and Rep. Roger Williams (R-Weatherford). Among the issues discussed was the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act of 2015 (S. 843/H.R. 1571). The bill addresses the failure to inform seniors whether they are classified under observation or as an inpatient. This is a hardship for seniors who thought their skilled nursing stay would be covered by Medicare, possibly leading to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket-costs. Another issue on the agenda was veterans’ access to extended care. Members hope to ensure that all nursing centers have the opportunity to enter into VA provider agreements and are exempt from onerous federal contracting regulations. In addition, THCA members stressed the need to avoid further Medicare cuts and offered to work with Congressional leaders to provide improvements in the quality of care for our nation’s frail and elderly. Attendees were briefed before their meetings by AHCA staff. They also heard an update on the political climate in Washington from guest speaker Chris Wallace, host of Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace. |
President’s Report___________________________ Legislative Update
___________________________ Commitment to CareFor questions or comments on any of the above Commitment to Care information please don’t hesitate to contact:Gloria Bean-Williams, RN
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