Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, the Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. No bill number. Discussed fraud and means testing for federal benefits. No bill number. Discussed Medicare coverage of telehealth services. No bill number. Discussed Medicare coverage of dental services. No bill number. Discussed SHIPs and Medicare low-income beneficiary outreach and enrollment activities. No bill number. Discussed Medicare primary care workforce access and shortages. No bill number. Discussed Medicaid managed care. No bill number. Discussed Medicaid program proposals. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Advantage network adequacy. H.R.10437, To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the guaranteed issue of Medigap policies to all Medigap-eligible Medicare beneficiaries and Medicare Advantage enrollees, and for other purposes. No bill number. Discussed care at home. H.R. 8108, the Care for Military Kids Act. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule and Caregiver Training Services. H.R. 8331/S. 4280, the Essential Caregivers Act. H.R. 3227/H.R. 8244, the Ensuring Seniors Access to Quality Care Act. HR 7513/S.3410, the Protecting Americas Seniors Access to Care Act. H.R. 468/H.R. 9067, the Building Americas Health Care Workforce Act. S. 5023, the Stand Strong Falls Prevention Act. H.R. 7618, the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act. No bill number. Discussed Nursing Home Staffing Standard.

Client expense: $5,580,000 · Firm income: Not reported

S. 3702/H.R. 7165, the Credit for Caring Act. S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, the Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. S. 3254/H.R 7222, the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act. No bill number. Discussed enhanced ACA tax credits. No bill number. Discussed high-deductible health plans and health savings accounts. No bill number. Discussed falls prevention. No bill number. Discussed respiratory virus season. No bill number. Discussed consumer protections and artificial intelligence in health care. No bill number. Commented on Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2026. No bill number. Discussed social isolation and loneliness. H.R. 9803, the Hospice Care Act. S. 5023, the Stand Strong Falls Prevention Act. S. 4556/H.R. 9179, the SAFE STEPS for Veterans Act. H.R. 7618, the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act No bill number. Discussed Assisted in Assisted Living Act. H.R. 3227/H.R. 8244, the Ensuring Seniors Access to Quality Care Act. H.R. 7513/S.3410, the Protecting Americas Seniors Access to Care Act. H.R. 468/H.R. 9067, the Building Americas Health Care Workforce Act. No bill number. Discussed Nursing Home Staffing Standard.

Client expense: $5,580,000 · Firm income: Not reported

S. 3702/H.R. 7165, the Credit for Caring Act. S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Ac.t S. 3766/H.R. 7274, the Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. S. 3254/H.R 7222, the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act. No bill number. Discussed paid leave for family caregivers. S. 3680/ H.R. 8860, the Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit Extension and Enhancement Act. No bill number. Discussed family caregiving. S. 4776, the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2024. No bill number. Discussed respite care. No bill number. Discussed care at home. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Caregiver Training Services and Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule. H.R. 8467, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024. S.5335, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act of 2024. No bill number. Discussed military and veteran caregivers. S. 141/H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. S. 495/H.R. 1815, the Expanding Veterans Options for Long Term Care Act. H.R. 542, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community-Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act. H.R. 3581, the Caregiver Outreach and Program Enhancement (COPE) Act. No bill number. Discussed Nursing Home Staffing Standard.

Client expense: $5,580,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Discussions around improving access, coverage, and prior authorization for treatments and drugs under Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and private insurance. Seniors Timely Access to Care (S.4532 / H.R. 8702) - CONNECT for Health Act of 2023 (H.R.4189/S.2016) - provisions related to permanent telehealth services in Medicare and interstate telehealth services. Telehealth Modernization Act (H.R. 7623 / S. 3967) - All Provisions. Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act of 2023 (H.R. 485) - provisions to ban the usage of quality adjusted life years in public insurance programs. HELP Copays Act (H.R.830 / S.1375) -- Provisions related to health insurance plans requirement to apply payments made by or on behalf of plan enrollees toward a plan's cost-sharing requirements, i.e. a ban on copay-accumulator adjust programs. BENEFIT Act of 2023 (H.R.1092/S.526) - Provisions related to increases in patient and advocate role in FDA benefit-risk framework for drug approval through leveraging patient experience, PFDD, and related data. Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 (H.R. 7274/S. 3766) - All provisions. Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act (H.R. 1691) - All provisions HEALTHY BRAINS Act (H.R. 9233) - All Provisions relating to creating a research grant program to study environmental toxin exposure, its impact on the development of neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, and developing strategies to prevent, treat, and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Seniors Timely Access to Care (S.4532 / H.R. 8702) - All provisions

Client expense: $30,000 · Firm income: Not reported

ALS Better Care Act (H.R 5663/S.3258) - Discussion around supplemental payment to designated ALS clinics that provide multidisciplinary services to people living with ALS. HELP Copays Act (H.R.830 / S.1375) -- Provisions related to health insurance plans requirement to apply payments made by or on behalf of plan enrollees toward a plan's cost-sharing requirements, i.e. a ban on copay-accumulator adjust programs. Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act of 2023 (H.R.3876) - Provisions related to modernization of Medicare to keep pace with generic and genomic medicine innovation. Improves the ability for practitioners to refer patients to genetic counselors, Provides 85% reimbursement of physicians fee schedule amount for service. Discussion around Telehealth permanence (no bill number) - provisions related to permanent telehealth services in Medicare and interstate telehealth services. Close the Medigap Act (HR 35) -Discussion around Medigap guarantee issue provisions for people living with ALS aged under 65. Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act (S.3109/H.R.8018) - All provisions. Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 (H.R. 7274/S. 3766) - All provisions

Client expense: $30,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Lobbying to Increase Prescription Drug Affordability and Accessibility: Advocacy for Medicare Part D redesign and benefits for people living with Parkinson's, including expanding the low-income subsidy (LIS) program, capping out-of-pocket costs, implementing a smoothing mechanism, and streamlining utilization management processes. The Medicare Part D Six Protected Classes Policy: Requires Part D plans to cover all drugs in six classes: immunosuppressants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, antiretrovirals, and antineoplastics. For people living with Parkinson's, most of whom are Medicare beneficiaries, it is essential to have access to a wide range of treatment options for antidepressants and antipsychotics, which are crucial for managing non-motor symptoms like depression and psychosis. Signed Coalition Letters: - Medicare Access for Prescription Rx (MAPRx): Comment letter in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance. - Patient and Provider Advocates for Telehealth: Comment letter in response to CMS CY 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) supporting expanded access to telehealth. - Alliance for Aging Research: Coalition letter in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance supporting proposed beneficiary protections. H.R.4752/S.2379 - CHANGE Act of 2023: A bill to better utilize existing Medicare wellness visits for early screening, detection, and diagnosis of Alzheimer's and related dementias, including Parkinson's disease dementia. S.1544/H.R.1199 - Facilitating Innovative Nuclear Diagnostics Act of 2023: A bill to establish separate payment requirements for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals, including DaTscans used to confirm Parkinson's diagnoses, under the Medicare outpatient prospective payment system. CMS-1809-P (2025 Medicare OPPS Proposed Rule): Comment supporting CMS's proposal to separately reimburse certain diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnosing Parkinson's disease and atypical parkinsonisms. H.R.8702/S.4532 - Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act: Establishes requirements for the use of prior authorization under Medicare Advantage plans to ensure timely access to care for seniors, including those with Parkinson's. S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act: Requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Social Security to simplify processes and communications for family caregivers to assist individuals in accessing and utilizing benefits. S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act: Amends the Social Security Act to provide outreach and education to Medicare beneficiaries and simplify access to information for family caregivers through 1-800-MEDICARE. Advocacy for Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Access: Lobbying CMS to direct Medicare contractors to clarify claims procedures for DME therapies requiring administration via external infusion pumps, ensuring quick access to new Parkinson's therapies after FDA approval. H.R.8331/S. 4280 - Essential Caregivers Act of 2024: To amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act to require skilled nursing facilities, nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities for the intellectually disabled, and inpatient rehabilitation facilities to permit essential caregivers access during any period in which regular visitation is restricted.

Family Caregiver issues (S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization)

Client expense: $20,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Family Caregiver issues (Office of Caregiver Health, S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, S.4325 - Lifespan Respite Reauthorization Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization, caregiver mental health)

Client expense: $20,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Administration on Aging, Centers For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Executive Office of the President (EOP), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)

Draft, Medicare Compare Website (no bill number) - Rep. Guthrie, Brett - improvements to CMS Medicare compare website H.R. 35 - Close the Medigap Act of 2023 - Rep. Doggett, Lloyd - Medigap policies H.R. 3746 - Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 - Rep. McHenry, Patrick - work requirements for federal programs H.R. 3875 - Expanded Telehealth Access Act - Rep. Sherrill, Mikie - Medicare payment for telehealth services H.R. 4411 - Medicare Advantage Integrity Act - Resident Commissioner Gonzalez-Colon, Jenniffer - disparity in MA benchmark rates H.R. 4818 - Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023 - Rep. Wenstrup, Brad -Medicare Coverage of weight loss treatment H.R. 5526 - Seniors' Access to Critical Medications Act of 2023 - Rep. Harshbarger, Diana - exception for physician self-referral H.R. 5584 - Medicaid Third Party Liability Act - Rep. Burgess, Michael - amends Medicaid Third Party liability requirements H.R. 5746 - Addressing Whole Health in Medicare Advantage Act - Rep. Bilirakis, Gus - Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits H.R. 5854 - Medicare Advantage Consumer Protection and Transparency Act - Rep. Porter, Katie - Medicare Advantage organization reporting H.R. 6364 - Medicare Telehealth Privacy Act of 2023 - Rep. Balderson, Troy - Provider privacy provisions for telehealth under Medicare H.R. 6400 - To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to extend eligibility for certain payment increases for biosimilar biological products under the Medicare program - Rep. Cardenas, Tony - Medicare payment increase for biosimilars H.R. 6445 - Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act of 2023 - Rep. Bilirakis, Gus - Medicare Audiology Coverage H.R. 7147 - Medicare Transaction Fraud Prevention Act - Rep. Schweikert, David - oversight of payments for medical equipment & clinical DLTs under Medicare H.R. 7148 - Medicare Home Health Accessibility Act - Rep. Smucker, Lloyd - occupational therapy eligibility for home health coverage under Medicare H.R. 7254 - Hearing Device Coverage Clarification Act - Rep. Fischbach, Michelle - excludes fully implanted active middle ear hearing devices from the hearing aid coverage exclusion under Medicare H.R. 7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 - Rep. Carey, Mike - outreach, education, and simplify information for family caregivers on Medicare benefits H.R. 7432 - Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act - Rep. Burgess, Michael - enables State Medicaid programs to provide coordinated care through health home to individuals with sickle cell disease H.R. 7512 - Real-Time Benefit Tool Implementation Act - Rep. Arrington, Jodey - implementation of real-time benefit tools under part D of under Medicare H.R. 7573 - Stop Unfair Medicaid Recoveries Act - Rep. Schakowsky, Janice - Medicaid Estate Recovery Program H.R. 7619 - Expand the Behavioral Health Workforce Now Act - Rep. Neguse, Joe - education, training, recruitment, and retention of mental health and substance use disorder providers under Medicaid and CHIP H.R. 7623 - Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024 - Rep. Carter, Earl L. Buddy - makes certain telehealth flexibilities permanent under Medicare and adds requirements for Part D plan contracts with PBMs including reporting and delinking provisions H.R. 7856 - Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-based Strategies Act (PREVENT DIABETES Act)- Rep. DeGette, Diana - Medicare, coverage, preventive care, chronic care H.R. 7863 - To require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue guidance on furnishing behavioral health services via telehealth to individuals with limited English proficiency under Medicare program. - Rep. Steel, Michelle - Medicare, behavioral health, telehealth, accessibility H.R. 7939 - Patient Access to Innovative New Technologies Act of 2024 - Rep. Carey, Mike - Medicare, quality, medical devices, coverage H.R. 7996 - Improving CARE for Youth Act - Rep. Dunn, Neal - allows for same-day billing for mental health services for youth Medicaid beneficiaries who are being seen for a primary care service H.R. 8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act- Rep. Cammack, Kat - review and simplify caregiver paperwork, CHIP, Medicare, Medicaid H.R. 8064 - Help Extend Auditory Relief Act of 2024- Rep. Cartwright, Matt - Medicare coverage of hearing aids H.R. 8075 - Improving Access to Home Dialysis Act of 2024- Rep. Miller, Carol - Medicare coverage of home dialysis H.R. 8115 - To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to allow for the deferral or disallowance of portions of payments for certain managed care violations under Medicaid- Rep. Sarbanes, John - Medicaid managed care payment deferral H.R. 8261 - Preserving Telehealth, Hospital, and Ambulance Access Act- Rep. Schweikert, David - extend flexibilities and payment for Medicare H.R. 8702 - Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act - Rep. Mike Kelly - prior authorization, transparency, MA S. 838 - Improving Access to Mental Health Act - Sen. Stabenow, Debbie - mental health services in Medicare S. 948 - Healthy Moms and Babies Act - Sen. Grassley, Chuck - establishes programs and requirements to support maternal health services under Medicaid and CHIP S. 1002 - No UPCODE Act - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - modifies certain factors that are used to determine Medicare Advantage (MA) payments, particularly relating to health status and related data S. 2880 - Expanded Telehealth Access Act - Sen. Daines, Steve - Medicare payment for telehealth services S. 3573 - Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act- Sen. Warner, Mike - MA, data transparency, supplemental benefits S. 3578 - Protect Medicaid Act - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - prohibits federal payments under Medicaid for noncitizens, requires reporting to HHS of states that provide such health benefits S. 3630 - Medicare Transaction Fraud Prevention Act- Sen. Braun, Mike- pilot program for predictive risk-scoring algorithm, oversight, Medicare S. 3651 - Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2024- Sen. Cassidy, Bill - Medicare, mental health services, telehealth S. 3766 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024- Sen. Tillis, Thomas - Medicare, outreach and education, caregivers S. 3882 - Helping States Integrate Medicare and Medicaid Act- Sen. Casey, Robert - dual eligibles, quality measures, access, enrollment S. 3934 - Increasing Access to Biosimilars Act of 2023- Sen. Cornyn, John - Medicare drug access S. 3950 - Delivering Unified Access to Lifesaving Services Act of 2024 - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - reforming Integrated Medicare/Medicaid Care Programs for Dually Eligible Individuals S. 4094 - PREVENT DIABETES Act - Sen. Scott, Tim - Medicare, coverage, preventive care, chronic care S. 4532 - Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act - Sen. Marshall, Roger - prior authorization, transparency, MA S. 4767 - Insurance Fraud Accountability Act - Sen. Wyden, Ron - reduces fraudulent enrollments in qualified health plans Issues related to mental health and Medicare; Medicare and Medicaid funding; Medicaid expansion; State innovation waivers; Medicaid and CHIP; Medicaid FMAP; Medicare Supplement Coverage; Medicare Transparency in Coverage; Medicaid Access Final Rule; Medicaid Redeterminations; Medicaid rate actuarial soundness; value of Medicaid Managed Care; Medicare Advantage Health Risk Assessment and chart reviews; Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits and Social Determinants of health; coverage of weight loss drugs; and Inflation Reduction Act implementation.

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Family Caregiver issues (Office of Caregiver Health, S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, S.4325 - Lifespan Respite Reauthorization Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization, caregiver mental health)

Client expense: $30,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Administration on Aging, Centers For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Executive Office of the President (EOP), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Transportation, Dept of (DOT), Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)

Family Caregiver issues (S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization)

Client expense: $30,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

S. 4556/H.R. 9179, the SAFE STEPS for Veterans Act. H.R. 542, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community-Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act. S. 495/H.R. 1815, the Expanding Veterans Options for Long Term Care Act. H.R. 3581, the Caregiver Outreach and Program Enhancement (COPE) Act. H.R. 2818, the Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act. H.R. 3956, the Veterans Protection from Fraud Act. S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3702/H.R. 7165, the Credit for Caring Act. S. 3254/H.R. 7222, the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, the Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. No bill number. Discussed veterans and military veteran caregivers. H.R. 8108, the Care for Military Kids Act. No bill number. Discussed VA Caregiver Support Programs.

Client expense: $4,820,000 · Firm income: Not reported

S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, the Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. No bill number. Discussed funding for SHIP low-income outreach and enrollment programs. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Advantage and health savings accounts. H.R.7623/S.3697, the Telehealth Modernization Act. S. 5070/H.R. 8107, the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-In Programs Act. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2025. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System for calendar year 2025. No bill number. Discussed Fiscal Year 2025 Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate Update. No bill number. Discussed Medicare open enrollment. H.R. 8702/S.4532, the Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act of 2024. H.R. 8331/S. 4280, the Essential Caregivers Act. H.J.Res.139, Providing for Congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services relating to "Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting. S.J.Res.91, A joint resolution providing for Congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services relating to "Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting" H.R. 8244, the Ensuring Seniors Access to Quality Care Act. S.1749/H.R. 3227, the Ensuring Seniors Access to Quality Care Act. S.3410/H.R. 7513, the Protecting Americas Seniors Access to Care Act. H.R. 468, the Building Americas Health Care Workforce Act. H.R. 9067, the Building Americas Health Care Workforce Act. S. 5023, the Stand Strong Falls Prevention Act. S.1190, the Direct Support Worker Training Reimbursement Act of 2023. S.1196, the Mollie Baldwin Upskilling of Personal and Home Care Aides Act of 2023. S.1192, the CADSAW Act of 2023. No bill number. Discussed Medicaid home and community-based services and presumptive eligibility and self-directed services. No bill number. Discussed Caregiver Training Services. No bill number. Discussed GUIDE Model. No bill number. Discussed Medicare, Medicaid, and family caregivers. No bill number. Discussed Medicaid access final rule. H.R. 8108, the Care for Military Kids Act. H. R. 8106, to increase transparency and expand coverage options for home and community-based services under a Medicaid waiver. No bill number. Discussed long-term care. H.R. 9803, the Hospice Care Act.

S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. S. 3254/H.R 7222, the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act. H.R. 7165/S. 3702, the Credit for Caring Act. S.3680/ H.R. 8860, the Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit Extension and Enhancement Act. No bill number. Discussed paid leave for family caregivers. S.4776, the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act. S. 5023, the Stand Strong Falls Prevention Act. S. 4556/H.R. 9179, the SAFE STEPS for Veterans Act. H.Con.Res.129 - Supporting the designation of "National Fall Prevention Awareness Week". No bill number. Discussed Strategic Framework for a National Plan on Aging. No bill number. Discussed Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate Update. S.1190, the Direct Support Worker Training Reimbursement Act of 2023. S.1196, the Mollie Baldwin Upskilling of Personal and Home Care Aides Act of 2023. S.1192, the CADSAW Act of 2023. No bill number. Discussed Older Americans Act programs. No bill number. Discussed family caregiving priorities and Older Americans Act reauthorization. S. 4765, the Respect Parents Childcare Choices Act. H.R. 9803, the Hospice Care Act. No bill number. Discussed GUIDE Model. No bill number. Discussed National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. No bill number. Discussed Medicare and Medicaid and family caregivers. H.R. 542, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community-Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act. H.R. 3581, Caregiver Outreach and Program Enhancement (COPE) Act. H.R. 6160, To reauthorize a lifespan respite care program. S. 4325, the Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2025. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System for calendar year 2025. S.3697/H.R.7623, the Telehealth Modernization Act. No bill number. Discussed military and veteran caregivers and VA Caregiver Support Programs.

Lobbying to Increase Prescription Drug Affordability and Accessibility: Advocacy for Medicare Part D redesign and benefits for people living with Parkinson's, including expanding the low-income subsidy (LIS) program, capping out-of-pocket costs, implementing a smoothing mechanism, and streamlining utilization management processes. The Medicare Part D Six Protected Classes Policy: Requires Part D plans to cover all drugs in six classes: immunosuppressants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, antiretrovirals, and antineoplastics. For people living with Parkinson's, most of whom are Medicare beneficiaries, it is essential to have access to a wide range of treatment options for antidepressants and antipsychotics, which are crucial for managing non-motor symptoms like depression and psychosis. Signed Coalition Letters: - Medicare Access for Prescription Rx (MAPRx): Comment letter in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance. - Patient and Provider Advocates for Telehealth: Comment letter in response to CMS CY 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) supporting expanded access to telehealth. - Alliance for Aging Research: Coalition letter in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance supporting proposed beneficiary protections. H.R.4752/S.2379 - CHANGE Act of 2023: A bill to better utilize existing Medicare wellness visits for early screening, detection, and diagnosis of Alzheimer's and related dementias, including Parkinson's disease dementia. S.1544/H.R.1199 - Facilitating Innovative Nuclear Diagnostics Act of 2023: A bill to establish separate payment requirements for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals, including DaTscans used to confirm Parkinson's diagnoses, under the Medicare outpatient prospective payment system. CMS-1809-P (2025 Medicare OPPS Proposed Rule): Comment supporting CMS's proposal to separately reimburse certain diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnosing Parkinson's disease and atypical parkinsonisms. H.R.8702/S.4532 - Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act: Establishes requirements for the use of prior authorization under Medicare Advantage plans to ensure timely access to care for seniors, including those with Parkinson's. S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act: Requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Social Security to simplify processes and communications for family caregivers to assist individuals in accessing and utilizing benefits. S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act: Amends the Social Security Act to provide outreach and education to Medicare beneficiaries and simplify access to information for family caregivers through 1-800-MEDICARE. Advocacy for Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Access: Lobbying CMS to direct Medicare contractors to clarify claims procedures for DME therapies requiring administration via external infusion pumps, ensuring quick access to new Parkinson's therapies after FDA approval.

Discussions around improving access, coverage, and prior authorization for treatments and drugs under Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and private insurance. Seniors Timely Access to Care (S.4532 / H.R. 8702) - CONNECT for Health Act of 2023 (H.R.4189/S.2016) - provisions related to permanent telehealth services in Medicare and interstate telehealth services. Telehealth Modernization Act (H.R. 7623 / S. 3967) - All Provisions. Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act of 2023 (H.R. 485) - provisions to ban the usage of quality adjusted life years in public insurance programs. HELP Copays Act (H.R.830 / S.1375) -- Provisions related to health insurance plans requirement to apply payments made by or on behalf of plan enrollees toward a plan's cost-sharing requirements, i.e. a ban on copay-accumulator adjust programs. BENEFIT Act of 2023 (H.R.1092/S.526) - Provisions related to increases in patient and advocate role in FDA benefit-risk framework for drug approval through leveraging patient experience, PFDD, and related data. Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 (H.R. 7274/S. 3766) - All provisions. Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act (H.R. 1691) - All provisions HEALTHY BRAINS Act (H.R. 9233) - All Provisions relating to creating a research grant program to study environmental toxin exposure, its impact on the development of neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, and developing strategies to prevent, treat, and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Client expense: $30,000 · Firm income: Not reported

ALS Better Care Act (H.R 5663/S.3258) - Discussion around supplemental payment to designated ALS clinics that provide multidisciplinary services to people living with ALS. HELP Copays Act (H.R.830 / S.1375) -- Provisions related to health insurance plans requirement to apply payments made by or on behalf of plan enrollees toward a plan's cost-sharing requirements, i.e. a ban on copay-accumulator adjust programs. Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act of 2023 (H.R.3876) - Provisions related to modernization of Medicare to keep pace with generic and genomic medicine innovation. Improves the ability for practitioners to refer patients to genetic counselors, Provides 85% reimbursement of physicians fee schedule amount for service. Discussion around Telehealth permanence (no bill number) - provisions related to permanent telehealth services in Medicare and interstate telehealth services. Close the Medigap Act (HR 35) -Discussion around Medigap guarantee issue provisions for people living with ALS aged under 65. Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act (S.3109/H.R.8018) - All provisions. Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 (H.R. 7274/S. 3766) - All provisions

Client expense: $30,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Discussion around improving the prior authorization process for treatments and drugs under Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and private insurance. CONNECT for Health Act of 2023(H.R.4189/S.2016) - provisions related to permanent telehealth services in Medicare and interstate telehealth services. Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act of 2023 (H.R. 485) - provisions to ban the usage of quality adjusted life years in public insurance programs. Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act of 2023 (H.R. 542 / S.141) - would raise the cap on the Veterans Administrations payments for home care from 65% to 100% and would expand VA home care programs. HELP Copays Act (H.R.830 / S.1375) -- Provisions related to health insurance plans requirement to apply payments made by or on behalf of plan enrollees toward a plan's cost-sharing requirements, i.e. a ban on copay-accumulator adjust programs. BENEFIT Act of 2023 (H.R.1092/S.526) - Provisions related to increases in patient and advocate role in FDA benefit-risk framework for drug approval through leveraging patient experience, PFDD, and related data. H.R. 7274/S. 3766 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 - All provisions. H.R. 1691, Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act - All provisions

Client expense: $25,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Draft, Broker Accountability Act (no bill number) - ACA Agent/Broker accountability H.R. 35 - Close the Medigap Act of 2023 - Rep. Doggett, Lloyd - Medigap policies H.R. 3746 - Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 - Rep. McHenry, Patrick - work requirements for federal programs H.R. 3875 - Expanded Telehealth Access Act - Rep. Sherrill, Mikie - Medicare payment for telehealth services H.R. 4411 - Medicare Advantage Integrity Act - Resident Commissioner Gonzalez-Colon, Jenniffer - disparity in MA benchmark rates H.R. 4818 - Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023 - Rep. Wenstrup, Brad -Medicare Coverage of weight loss treatment H.R. 5526 - Seniors' Access to Critical Medications Act of 2023 - Rep. Harshbarger, Diana - exception for physician self-referral H.R. 5584 - Medicaid Third Party Liability Act - Rep. Burgess, Michael - amends Medicaid Third Party liability requirements H.R. 5746 - Addressing Whole Health in Medicare Advantage Act - Rep. Bilirakis, Gus - Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits H.R. 5854 - Medicare Advantage Consumer Protection and Transparency Act - Rep. Porter, Katie - Medicare Advantage organization reporting H.R. 6364 - Medicare Telehealth Privacy Act of 2023 - Rep. Balderson, Troy - Provider privacy provisions for telehealth under Medicare H.R. 6400 - To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to extend eligibility for certain payment increases for biosimilar biological products under the Medicare program - Rep. Cardenas, Tony - Medicare payment increase for biosimilars H.R. 6445 - Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act of 2023 - Rep. Bilirakis, Gus - Medicare Audiology Coverage H.R. 7147 - Medicare Transaction Fraud Prevention Act - Rep. Schweikert, David - oversight of payments for medical equipment & clinical DLTs under Medicare H.R. 7148 - Medicare Home Health Accessibility Act - Rep. Smucker, Lloyd - occupational therapy eligibility for home health coverage under Medicare H.R. 7254 - Hearing Device Coverage Clarification Act - Rep. Fischbach, Michelle - excludes fully implanted active middle ear hearing devices from the hearing aid coverage exclusion under Medicare H.R. 7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 - Rep. Carey, Mike - outreach, education, and simplify information for family caregivers on Medicare benefits H.R. 7432 - Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act - Rep. Burgess, Michael - enables State Medicaid programs to provide coordinated care through health home to individuals with sickle cell disease H.R. 7512 - Real-Time Benefit Tool Implementation Act - Rep. Arrington, Jodey - implementation of real-time benefit tools under part D of under Medicare H.R. 7573 - Stop Unfair Medicaid Recoveries Act - Rep. Schakowsky, Janice - Medicaid Estate Recovery Program H.R. 7619 - Expand the Behavioral Health Workforce Now Act - Rep. Neguse, Joe - education, training, recruitment, and retention of mental health and substance use disorder providers under Medicaid and CHIP H.R. 7623 - Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024 - Rep. Carter, Earl L. Buddy - makes certain telehealth flexibilities permanent under Medicare H.R. 7856 - Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-based Strategies Act (PREVENT DIABETES Act)- Rep. DeGette, Diana - Medicare, coverage, preventive care, chronic care H.R. 7863 - To require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue guidance on furnishing behavioral health services via telehealth to individuals with limited English proficiency under Medicare program. - Rep. Steel, Michelle - Medicare, behavioral health, telehealth, accessibility H.R. 7939 - Patient Access to Innovative New Technologies Act of 2024 - Rep. Carey, Mike - Medicare, quality, medical devices, coverage H.R. 8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act- Rep. Cammack, Kat - review and simplify caregiver paperwork, CHIP, Medicare, Medicaid H.R. 8064 - Help Extend Auditory Relief Act of 2024- Rep. Cartwright, Matt - Medicare coverage of hearing aids H.R. 8075 - Improving Access to Home Dialysis Act of 2024- Rep. Miller, Carol - Medicare coverage of home dialysis H.R. 8115 - To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to allow for the deferral or disallowance of portions of payments for certain managed care violations under Medicaid- Rep. Sarbanes, John - Medicaid managed care payment deferral H.R. 8261 - Preserving Telehealth, Hospital, and Ambulance Access Act- Rep. Schweikert, David - extend flexibilities and payment for Medicare H.R. 8702 - Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act - Rep. Mike Kelly - prior authorization, transparency, MA S. 838 - Improving Access to Mental Health Act - Sen. Stabenow, Debbie - mental health services in Medicare S. 2880 - Expanded Telehealth Access Act - Sen. Daines, Steve - Medicare payment for telehealth services S. 3573 - Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act- Sen. Warner, Mike - MA, data transparency, supplemental benefits S. 3578 - Protect Medicaid Act - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - prohibits federal payments under Medicaid for noncitizens, requires reporting to HHS of states that provide such health benefits S. 3630 - Medicare Transaction Fraud Prevention Act- Sen. Braun, Mike- pilot program for predictive risk-scoring algorithm, oversight, Medicare S. 3651 - Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2024- Sen. Cassidy, Bill - Medicare, mental health services, telehealth S. 3766 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024- Sen. Tillis, Thomas - Medicare, outreach and education, caregivers S. 3882 - Helping States Integrate Medicare and Medicaid Act- Sen. Casey, Robert - dual eligibles, quality measures, access, enrollment S. 3934 - Increasing Access to Biosimilars Act of 2023- Sen. Cornyn, John - Medicare drug access S. 3950 - Delivering Unified Access to Lifesaving Services Act of 2024 - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - reforming Integrated Medicare/Medicaid Care Programs for Dually Eligible Individuals S. 4094 - PREVENT DIABETES Act - Sen. Scott, Tim - Medicare, coverage, preventive care, chronic care S. 4532 - Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act - Sen. Marshall, Roger - prior authorization, transparency, MA Issues related to mental health and Medicare; Medicare and Medicaid funding; Medicaid expansion; State innovation waivers; Medicaid and CHIP; Medicaid FMAP; Medicare Supplement Coverage; Medicaid Access Final Rule; Medicaid Redeterminations; value of Medicaid Managed Care; Medicare Advantage Health Risk Assessment; coverage of weight loss drugs; and Inflation Reduction Act implementation.

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

issues pertaining to older Americans, including Medicare and Social Security; prescription drug reform; budget and appropriations; Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act (S.3766/H.R.7274); Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (S.3109); Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S.3254/H.R.7222); The Credit for Caring Act (S. 3702/H.R.7165); Spectrum and National Security Act of 2024 (S.4207), provisions related to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $40,000

Family Caregiver issues (S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization)

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Family Caregiver issues (Office of Caregiver Health, S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109/H.R.8018 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization, caregiver mental health)

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Administration on Aging, Centers For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Executive Office of the President (EOP), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Transportation, Dept of (DOT), Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)

Lobbying to increase prescription drug affordability and accessibility for people living with Parkinson's via Medicare Part D redesign and benefits, including expanding the low-income subsidy (LIS) program, capping out-of-pocket costs, implementing a smoothing mechanism, and streamlining utilization management processes. The Medicare Part D Six Protected Classes Policy: requires Part D plan to cover all drugs in six classes: immunosuppressants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, antiretrovirals, and antineoplastics. For people living with Parkinson's, most of whom are Medicare beneficiaries, it is essential to have access to wide range of treatment options for antidepressants and antipsychotics. Parkinson's causes non-motor symptoms, including depression and psychosis, and individuals often experience different side effects, reactions, and efficacy based on which medications they take. Partnership for Part D Access coalition congressional meetings and signed coalition letter to CMS in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance in support of continued protection for the six protected classes policy. Signed Medicare Access for Prescription Rx (MAPRx) coalition comment letter in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance. Signed Patient and Provider Advocates for Telehealth coalition comment letter in response to CMS CY 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) in support prioritizing the needs of patients by expanding policies that improved access to safe and timely health care via telehealth. Signed Alliance for Aging Research coalition letter in response to Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part One Guidance in support of proposed beneficiary protections and to provide feedback on implementation considerations for the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan program. H.R.4752/S.2379 - the Concentrating High-value Alzheimer's Needs to Get to an End (CHANGE) Act of 2023: a bill to better utilize the existing Welcome to Medicare initial exam and Medicare annual wellness visits to screen, detect, and diagnose Alzheimers and related dementias, including Parkinson's disease dementia, in their earliest stages. Signed Leaders Engaged on Alzheimer's Disease (LEAD) Coalition letter to members of Congress in support of this legislation. S. 3109- Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act- bill to require the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Commissioner of Social Security to review and simplify the processes, procedures, forms, and communications for family caregivers to assist individuals in establishing eligibility for, enrolling in, and maintaining and utilizing coverage and benefits under the Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Social Security programs respectively, and for other purposes. Lobbying the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to direct Durable Medical Equipment Medicare Administrative Contractors to provide additional clarification regarding the use of claim modifiers for DME therapies that require administration via an external infusion pump to expedite patient access once new Parkinson's therapies receive approvals from the Food and Drug Administration. S.1544/H.R.1199 - Facilitating Innovative Nuclear Diagnostics Act of 2023: a bill to establish separate payment requirements for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals, including DaTscans, which can aid in confirming a Parkinson's diagnosis, under the Medicare prospective payment system for hospital outpatient department services. S. 3766/H.R. 7274- Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act -To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for outreach and education to Medicare beneficiaries to simplify access to information for family caregivers through 1-800-MEDICARE, and for other purposes. H.R. 8018/S. 3109- Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act- bill to require the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Commissioner of Social Security to review and simplify the processes, procedures, forms, and communications for family caregivers to assist individuals in establishing eligibility for, enrolling in, and maintaining and utilizing coverage and benefits under the Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Social Security programs respectively, and for other purposes. H.R.8702/S.4532 - Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act: a bill to establish requirements with respect to the use of prior authorization under Medicare Advantage plans.

No bill number. Discussed paid leave. No bill number. Discussed CMS Office of Caregiver Health. No bill number. Discussed Respect Parents' Childcare Choices Act. No bill number. Discussed National Plan on Aging. No bill number. Discussed Older Americans Act. No bill number. Discussed National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. No bill number. Discussed family caregivers and Medicare and Medicaid policy. No bill number. Discussed Medicare FY25 Skilled Nursing Facility Payment Proposed Rule. No bill number. Discussed Medicare FY25 Hospital Inpatient Payment Proposed Rule. S. 4399, the Help Grandfamilies Prevent Child Abuse Act. No bill number. Discussed peer support programs for family caregivers. No bill number. Discussed family caregiving and retirement. No bill number. Discussed family caregiving and overtime. No bill number. Discussed Care Executive Order. No bill number. Discussed family caregivers, direct care workers, care at home, and in other settings. H.R. 8588, the Linking Seniors to Needed Legal Services Act. H.R. 6160, to amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize a lifespan respite care program. S. 4325, the Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act of 2024. S. 3109/H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, the Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. S. 3254/H.R 7222, the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act. S. 3702/H.R. 7165, the Credit for Caring Act. No bill number. Discussed Domestic Worker Bill of Rights. No bill number. Discussed family caregivers and Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver. H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. S. 495/H.R. 1815, the Expanding Veterans Options for Long Term Care Act. H.R. 542, the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act. H.R. 3581, the Caregiver Outreach and Program Enhancement (COPE) Act. No bill number. Discussed family caregiving and Older Americans Act reauthorization. No bill number. Discussed Farm Bill and nutrition programs, including SNAP. H.R. 8467, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024.

No bill number. Discussed medically necessary dental coverage and oral health care in Medicare. No bill number. Discussed Medicare coverage for telehealth services. No bill number. Discussed workforce training, physician reimbursement, and Medicare provider access. No bill number. Discussed Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act of 2024. H.R. 2407, the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act. No bill number. Discussed Medicaid estate recovery. No bill number. Discussed Medicare Advantage data. H.R. 3549/ S. 1703, the PACE Part D Choice Act of 2023. No bill number. Discussed family caregivers and Medicare and Medicaid policy. No bill number. Discussed Medicare FY25 Skilled Nursing Facility Payment Proposed Rule. No bill number. Discussed Medicare FY25 Hospital Inpatient Payment Proposed Rule. No bill number. Discussed hospitals and a buffer of essential medicines. No bill number. Discussed Medicaid unwinding. H.R. 8114, To prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Services from finalizing a rule proposed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to place certain limitations on Medicaid payments for home or community-based services. No bill number. Discussed Care Executive Order. H.R. 8018, the Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3109, Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act. S. 3766/H.R. 7274, Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act. No bill number. Discussed Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver and family caregivers. No bill number. Discussed family caregivers, direct care workers, care at home, and in other settings. S. 4120/H.R. 7994, the Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act. H.R. 8094, to amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act to modify certain asset recovery rules. H.R. 7573, the Stop Unfair Medicaid Recoveries Act. No bill number. Discussed the Coordinating Care for Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act. No bill number. Discussed nursing home staffing standards. No bill number. Discussed Medicare home health and hospice benefits. No bill number. Discussed health care coverage expansion. H.R. 8331/S. 4280, the Essential Caregivers Act. H.R. 7442, Philippine Medicare Portability Study Act. H.R. 3227, the Ensuring Seniors Access to Quality Care Act. H.R. 8244, Ensuring Seniors Access to Quality Care Act. H.R.468, the Building Americas Health Care Workforce Act. HR 7513/S.3410, the Protecting Americas Seniors Access to Care Act. H.J.Res.139, Providing for Congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services relating to "Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting. S.J.Res.91, A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services relating to "Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting" S.4137, the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act of 2024.

Family Caregiver issues (Office of Caregiver Health, S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization, caregiver mental health)

Client expense: $80,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Executive Office of the President (EOP), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), SENATE, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Family Caregiver issues (S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization)

Client expense: $80,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Discussion around improving the prior authorization process for treatments and drugs under Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and private insurance. CONNECT for Health Act of 2023(H.R.4189/S.2016) - provisions related to permanent telehealth services in Medicare and interstate telehealth services. Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act of 2023 (H.R. 485) - provisions to ban the usage of quality adjusted life years in public insurance programs. Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act of 2023 (H.R. 542 / S.141) - would raise the cap on the Veterans Administrations payments for home care from 65% to 100% and would expand VA home care programs. HELP Copays Act (H.R.830 / S.1375) -- Provisions related to health insurance plans requirement to apply payments made by or on behalf of plan enrollees toward a plan's cost-sharing requirements, i.e. a ban on copay-accumulator adjust programs. BENEFIT Act of 2023 (H.R.1092/S.526) - Provisions related to increases in patient and advocate role in FDA benefit-risk framework for drug approval through leveraging patient experience, PFDD, and related data. H.R. 7274/S. 3766 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 - All provisions.

Client expense: $25,000 · Firm income: Not reported

H.R. 35 - Close the Medigap Act of 2023 - Rep. Doggett, Lloyd - Medigap policies H.R. 3746 - Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 - Rep. McHenry, Patrick - work requirements for federal programs H.R. 3875 - Expanded Telehealth Access Act - Rep. Sherrill, Mikie - Medicare payment for telehealth services H.R. 4411 - Medicare Advantage Integrity Act - Resident Commissioner Gonzalez-Colon, Jenniffer - disparity in MA benchmark rates H.R. 5526 - Seniors' Access to Critical Medications Act of 2023 - Rep. Harshbarger, Diana - exception for physician self-referral H.R. 5584 - Medicaid Third Party Liability Act - Rep. Burgess, Michael - amends Medicaid Third Party liability requirements H.R. 5746 - Addressing Whole Health in Medicare Advantage Act - Rep. Bilirakis, Gus - Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits H.R. 5854 - Medicare Advantage Consumer Protection and Transparency Act - Rep. Porter, Katie - Medicare Advantage organization reporting H.R. 6364 - Medicare Telehealth Privacy Act of 2023 - Rep. Balderson, Troy - Provider privacy provisions for telehealth under Medicare H.R. 6400 - To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to extend eligibility for certain payment increases for biosimilar biological products under the Medicare program - Rep. Cardenas, Tony - Medicare payment increase for biosimilars H.R. 6445 - Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act of 2023 - Rep. Bilirakis, Gus - Medicare Audiology Coverage H.R. 7147 - Medicare Transaction Fraud Prevention Act - Rep. Schweikert, David - oversight of payments for medical equipment & clinical DLTs under Medicare H.R. 7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024 - Rep. Carey, Mike - outreach, education, and simplify information for family caregivers on Medicare benefits H.R. 7432 - Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act - Rep. Burgess, Michael - enables State Medicaid programs to provide coordinated care through health home to individuals with sickle cell disease H.R. 7512 - Real-Time Benefit Tool Implementation Act - Rep. Arrington, Jodey - implementation of real-time benefit tools under part D of under Medicare H.R. 7573 - Stop Unfair Medicaid Recoveries Act - Rep. Schakowsky, Janice - Medicaid Estate Recovery Program H.R. 7619 - Expand the Behavioral Health Workforce Now Act - Rep. Neguse, Joe - education, training, recruitment, and retention of mental health and substance use disorder providers under Medicaid and CHIP H.R. 7623 - Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024 - Rep. Carter, Earl L. - makes certain telehealth flexibilities permanent under Medicare S. 838 - Improving Access to Mental Health Act - Sen. Stabenow, Debbie - mental health services in Medicare S. 2880 - Expanded Telehealth Access Act - Sen. Daines, Steve - Medicare payment for telehealth services S. 3573- Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act- Sen. Warner, Mike - MA, data transparency, supplemental benefits S. 3578- Protect Medicaid Act - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - prohibits federal payments under Medicaid for noncitizens, requires reporting to HHS of states that provide such health benefits S. 3630- Medicare Transaction Fraud Prevention Act- Sen. Braun. Mike- pilot program for predictive risk-scoring algorithm, oversight, Medicare S. 3651- Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2024- Sen. Cassidy, Bill - Medicare, mental health services, telehealth S. 3766- Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act of 2024- Sen. Tillis, Thomas - Medicare, outreach and education, caregivers S. 3882- Helping States Integrate Medicare and Medicaid Act- Sen. Casey, Robert - dual eligibles, quality measures, access, enrollment S. 3934- Increasing Access to Biosimilars Act of 2023- Sen. Cornyn, John - Medicare drug access S. 3950 - Delivering Unified Access to Lifesaving Services Act of 2024 - Sen. Cassidy, Bill - reforming Integrated Medicare/Medicaid Care Programs for Dually Eligible Individuals Issues related to mental health and Medicare; Medicare and Medicaid funding; Medicaid expansion; State innovation waivers; Medicaid and CHIP; Medicaid FMAP; issues related to Medicare Advantage payment, including Medicare Payment Advisory Commission analyses and the 2025 Advance Rate Notice for MA and Part D; MedPAC analysis of MA payments, MA CY 2025 rate notice; MA risk adjustment; prior authorization in Medicare and Medicaid; MA coverage in rural areas; and issues related to implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act, including reform of the Medicare Part D program. Regulatory Issues: Ongoing implementation issues for the Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Part D prescription drug programs, including risk adjustment methodology, network adequacy and provider directories, encounter data and other data-related issues, and risk adjustment data validation (RADV) audit issues including RADV regulation for MA; bidding and payment issues (including MA rate assumptions, MA coding intensity, MA Secondary Payer issues, Part D reinsurance, Part D low income subsidies, Part D direct and indirect remuneration (DIR), and audits); issues related to Medicare for All, Medicare buy-in, reduced Medicare eligibility age, and public option; issues relating to 2024 Rate Notice; issues related to the expiration of Medicaid continuous eligibility and transitions in coverage; issues related to coverage in non-Medicaid Expansion States (e.g., Gap Population); issues related to expanded Medicare fee for service benefits (dental, hearing and vision); issues related to specialty infant formula; issues related to the Inflation Reduction Act implementation; contraceptive coverage and reproductive health; Medicare NCD relating to monoclonal antibodies for treatment of Alzheimers disease; issues related to Managed Long Term Services and Supports (MLTSS); issues relating to COVID-19, including testing, vaccines and therapeutics; issues related to the end of the public health emergency, including the Medicaid unwinding; telehealth; issues related to the cost of insulin, including price, copays, rebates, and medical management tools; issues related to health equity; issues related to artificial intelligence; issues related to vaccination; issues related to audio-only telehealth; issues related to addressing the social determinants of health, including housing, transportation, nutrition, educational opportunities, and MA supplemental benefits; issues related to Medicaid presumptive eligibility and continuous eligibility; issues relating to Medicaid best price; in-home health risk assessments; Medicare Medical Loss Ratio issues; issues related to changes to prior authorization regulations or legislation, electronic documentation, and related issues; issues relating to sequestration under the Medicare Advantage and Part D programs; implications of physician fee schedule on MA; application process, audits to evaluate compliance with MA and Part D program rules, benefit design rules, enrollment rules, requirements for notice and denial forms, marketing materials review and approval, marketing activities, including conduct and compensation of brokers and agents and plan sponsor marketing staff; measurement and oversight of plan performance including Special Needs Plans (SNPs); quality measures, grievance and appeals processes, fraud and abuse compliance including training; contracting issues for Dual Eligible SNPs; Federal preemption of State authority under MA and Part D programs, Part D prescription drug event data reporting, Part D formulary rules, Part D pharmacy access standards, Part D coverage gap discount program, including employer group waiver plan (EGWP) issues, and other operational issues; issues raised by Part D coverage of new specialty drugs, the Part D non-interference policy and related issues (e.g., preferred pharmacy and any willing pharmacy requirements, standards for network pharmacy reimbursement, and policies regarding sponsor negotiation of pharmacy price concessions); issues related to the international price index; issues related to child and maternal health; issues related to Medicaid supplemental and disproportionate share hospital (DSH) funding; issues related to Medicaid funding for territories; issues related to medical management; issues relating to MA supplemental benefits; Medication Therapy Management Program requirements and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) Demonstration; MA EGWP issues; CMMI's value based payment models; Part D requirements for offering basic and enhanced alternative plans; MA and Part D systems issues affecting enrollment and disenrollment processing and payment and other operational issues; issues relating to MA and Part D Star Rating system including measures, the methodology for calculating ratings, and the role of the ratings for payment purposes; functionality of the Medicare Personal Plan Finder and Drug Plan Finder; National Medicare Education Program; Medicare demonstration program on performance-based payments for physician groups; physician quality reporting initiative; issues relating to Medicare coverage policy and national coverage decisions; issues relating to MACRA, including implications for MA and Part D plans; Medicare/Medicaid integration for dual eligibles, including implementation of the Capitated Financial Alignment Demonstration and related issues (e.g., quality ratings); issues relating to potential Medicare mental health parity requirements; Medicaid managed care regulations and policies, including the Medicaid managed care actuarial soundness standard, quality oversight, Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC), grievance and appeals processes, fraud and abuse compliance, beneficiary information requirements, treatment of Medicaid health plan member hospital days in the upper payment limit calculation; policies affecting State Medicaid funding, including block grants, the calculation of the federal medical assistance (federal matching) percentage (FMAP), and intergovernmental transfers (IGTs); coordination of benefits with state Medicaid programs; Medicaid prescription drug cost issues affecting Medicaid health plans including issues raised by Medicaid coverage of new specialty drugs; health plan-related Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) issues, including eligibility and outreach issues and CHIP reauthorization; implementation of Medicaid changes made in Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, including Medicaid managed care organization provider tax issues; standards for electronic prescribing; issues related to Medicaid Managed long-term care including home and community-based waiver services (HCBS); expanding the availability of Medicare Advantage and Medicaid health plan telemedicine programs; implications of the new non-discrimination rules for health plans participating in public programs; issues related to Medigap coverage; issues related to business continuity in relation to pandemics or natural events (e.g., hurricane, tornado, etc.); cybersecurity; provider directories; value-based insurance design models; Part D prescriber enrollment requirements; Part D recovery audit contractor programs; issues related to health homes for children with medically complex conditions; socioeconomic status impacts on star ratings related to MA and Part D programs; issues related to private equity ownership transparency; and other issues relating to health care reform implementation.

Family Caregiver issues (S.3766/H.R.7274 - Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Act, S.3109 - Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act, Physician Fee Schedule paid caregiver training in Medicare implementation, Older Americans Act Reauthorization)

Client expense: $80,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE