Lymphedema Treatment Act passes out of congressional committee

On July 13, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce voted on HR 3630, the Lymphedema Treatment Act. Passage out of Committee is a key step in having the bill voted on by the entire House of Representatives and potentially signed into law.

While the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have recognized the importance of compression garments in lymphedema treatment, they have indicated that they need Congress to act in order to add compression supplies as a Medicare benefit. The Lymphedema Treatment Act would provide Medicare coverage for prescribed lymphedema compression treatment items.

Despite their crucial importance, compression garments and other commonly prescribed items that are fundamental to treating lymphedema are not covered by Medicare. Because lymphedema is a chronic condition, occupational therapy practitioners work to minimize the amount of edema in the affected area, and to maximize client participation in ADLs and roles with a home management program to facilitate participation in valued daily activities. Lack of access to appropriate compression treatment garments makes this participation much more difficult.

Additionally, those who are unable to afford the supplies often have recurring infections, chronic inflammation, and further lymph vessel damage, and they experience a lower quality of life and a lack of independence. Proper treatment of lymphedema drastically reduces the need for costly hospitalizations while greatly improving the overall health and quality of life of those with this condition.

AOTA has been a long supporter of the Lymphedema Treatment Act and we are excited to see this legislation receive Congressional attention. Stay updated on this and other legislation by visiting www.aota.org/advocacy.