We are excited to share two new advocacy opportunities to help improve care for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries with lymphedema!
ADVOCACY ACTION #1 — MEDICARE ADVANTAGE:
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is currently accepting public comments on how the Medicare Advantage program could be improved. You do not have to be a Medicare Advantage policyholder to participate, although comments based on personal experience are especially powerful.
Click HERE for the submission form. The deadline to submit comments is January 26th.
Some suggested topics to include are listed below, but please put any comments into your own words, and feel free to include comments on non-lymphedema-related topics:
- Lack of in-network suppliers for lymphedema compression treatment items.
- Policyholders are frequently unable to obtain accurate information about lymphedema-related coverage.
- Coverage for lymphedema compression treatment items is inconsistent and often does not align with Original fee-for-service Medicare coverage.
ADVOCACY ACTION #2 — MEDICAID:
Each state’s Medicaid program is now required to have a Beneficiary Advisory Council (BAC). More information can be found HERE, and a summary follows:
- All states must form a BAC comprised of current/former Medicaid beneficiaries, family members, and caregivers.
- A subset of BAC members must serve on the state’s Medical Advisory Committee (MAC).
- BACs must meet separately, and in advance of MAC meetings, to facilitate beneficiary input.
- Meetings must be planned at times and locations that maximize participation and accessibility for BAC members.
- BAC governance and processes must be posted on the state’s website.
- BAC membership must be term-limited to ensure a variety of perspectives and opportunities for participation.
- State staff will be designated to support and facilitate participation of BAC members.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in serving on your state’s BAC, simply respond to this email, and we will connect you with your state’s application process.
This is a unique opportunity to improve coverage and access to care for lymphedema treatment supplies and services, as well as improve your state’s Medicaid program as a whole.
LASTLY, WE NEED YOUR HELP:
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to our 2025 Year-End Campaign, to support this and all of the important work we do.
A donation of just $25 from 500 people would bring us to our goal. We can’t do this without you!
Heather Ferguson
Founder & Executive Director
Lymphedema Advocacy Group
LymphedemaAdvocacyGroup.org
