Therapy Cap Extension Efforts Need Member's Help

VHCA (1/29/2010)

As we previously reported, the exceptions process for therapy caps expired on December 31, 2009.  The American Health Care Association (AHCA), along with other health care organizations and many of the disability groups are working to urge that Congress act quickly to address this problem.  According to AHCA, there is widespread bipartisan support for what has become an annual extension.  However, some key members of congress and their staff are reluctant to pass the extension for fear that it would become a tacit admission that health care reform has failed.  They also view therapy caps as one of the provisions which will help clear the way for health care reform due to the urgency of passing this provision.

Advocates, including AHCA, are asking Congress to attach the therapy cap extension to the next legislative vehicle “leaving the station”.  AHCA has initiated a grassroots effort to generate support for congressional action.  For more information on the effect of the therapy cap on Skilled Nursing Facilities, please click here.  It is urgent that members contact their Congressman and US Senators to inform them of the need for a therapy cap exceptions process and ask them to support such legislation.   To write a letter to Congress via AHCA/NCAL’s website, please click here.