Overview
H.R. 4662, the Lymphedema Diagnosis and Treatment Cost Saving Act of 2010 introduced by Congressman Larry Kissell, would offer coverage for Medicare beneficiaries with lymphedema from any cause. It would provide the medically recommended protocols (compression bandages, garments and supplies used daily in the treatment and management of lymphedema) and reduce the incidence of lymphedema-related infection. Although this legislation relates specifically to a change in Medicare law, it would also have the almost certain effect of ensuring all private insurance policies follow suit.
This is a very significant piece of legislation for anyone who has lymphedema or is at increased risk for acquiring lymphedema. We have no paid lobbyists and this is an entirely grass roots, patient driven cause.
WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please visit the GET INVOLVED page to learn how you can make a difference and ensure that the millions of Americans with lymphedema are no longer denied the treatment coverage they desperately need and deserve.
For the status of HR 4662 in Congress and to view the list of cosponsors visit http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-4662.
Specific goals of the bill are:
- to provide diagnosis and treatment of individuals with and at risk for lymphedema according to current medical treatment standards, including manual lymph drainage, compression bandages, garments, devices, and exercise;
- to provide for lymphedema patient education in the procedures for self-treatment so as to transfer the treatment from the clinical to the home setting;
- to encouragepatient self-treatment plan adherence by providing necessary medical supplies for use at home;
- to reducetotal healthcare costs through avoidance of periodic infections, pain and disabilities resulting from this medical condition.
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If you would like to receive periodic updates about the bills progress and how you can help support the passage of HR 4662 please send a request to be added to our contact list by emailing us at Info@LymphedemaTreatmentAct.org.
