VGM Government Relations

10/17/2025

The past few months have seen a surge of legislative activity in the home medical equipment sector, with several key developments shaping policy and advocacy efforts across the industry. From new bills introduced in Congress to formal comment submissions and stakeholder mobilization, these events reflect growing momentum around critical issues affecting providers and patients alike. This article offers a comprehensive recap of recent actions and outlines important next steps for those engaged in the HME community.
Click here to read the full article. https://www.vgm.com/services/government-relations/legislative-momentum-in-the-hme-industry-key-updates--action-items/

10/09/2025

VGM submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce in response to the Section 232 National Security Investigation on medical imports.

Our message is clear: national security matters—but so does patient care and the stability of the DME industry.

We’re advocating for a balanced approach that protects both.
We encourage you to make your voice heard. Read the full article and learn how to submit your comments:
https://www.vgm.com/services/government-relations/vgm-submits-comments-regarding-the-section-232-national-security-investigation-on-medical-imports-/

10/03/2025

In a significant development for the durable medical equipment (DME) industry and Medicare beneficiaries, the U.S. Senate has introduced S.2951, the companion legislation to H.R. 2005, known as the DMEPOS Relief Act of 2025. The Senate bill is being led by Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and has gained bipartisan support with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joining as a co-sponsor.

https://www.vgm.com/services/government-relations/senate-introduces-companion-bill-to-hr-2005-the-dme-relief-act-gains-bipartisan-momentum-/

10/02/2025

Medicare Operations Update: CMS has placed a temporary claims hold (up to 10 business days) to ensure accurate payments during the legislative payment lapse. Providers can still submit claims, but payments be delayed.
Read full announcement from CMS MLN Connects:

This webpage is used to structure an article produced by CMS or Noridian.

09/23/2025

Meet the Candidates!
VGM was honored to kick off our "Meet the Candidates" series with Iowa State Representative Josh Turek, who is running for the open U.S. Senate seat following Senator Joni Ernst’s retirement.

Rep. Turek has been a driving force in the Iowa House, championing CRT Right to Repair legislation—a critical step toward ensuring access and affordability in complex rehab technology.

As a wheelchair user, Rep. Turek brings a deeply personal perspective to the importance of accessible, high-quality DMEPOS (Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies). His advocacy reflects a commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities through better policy and support.

Click here to learn more about Rep. Turek and his vision for Iowa. https://turek4iowa.com/

09/16/2025

Igniting Champions Of Change During August Recess
This August recess, DME suppliers across the country seized the opportunity to engage with lawmakers and advocate for critical DMEPOS legislation. Their efforts are helping to build momentum and expand the network of congressional supporters.

This August recess, DME suppliers across the country seized the opportunity to engage with lawmakers and advocate for critical DMEPOS legislation. Their efforts are helping to build momentum and expand the network of congressional supporters.

09/15/2025

09/12/2025

Yesterday, the VGM team was in Columbia, MD, proudly presenting to Maryland DME suppliers in collaboration with Mncha Home Care
It was a great opportunity to connect, share insights, and support the incredible work being done in the DME community across Maryland. Thanks to everyone who joined us!

08/29/2025

VGM Group has submitted our comments on the CY26 CMS DMEPOS/Home Health Proposed Rule and encourages you to do the same (if you haven’t done so already)! The proposed return of the Competitive Bidding Program and other proposed changes outlined by CMS pose serious risks to the DMEPOS industry and the patients they serve.

Remember:

Address the issues that matter most to your business; youu don’t have to address every provision. Share how specific proposals affect your business, your employees, your patients, and the services you provide. And be factual and avoid PHI.

The deadline for comments is 11:59 p.m. ET, tonight! Read more about the Proposed Rule and how you can make your voice heard in our blog linked below.

https://www.vgm.com/services/government-relations/deadline-to-comment-on-cms-proposed-rule-is-today/

08/22/2025

“If the Competitive Bidding Program goes forward, it will be devastating—not just for providers like me but, most importantly, for the patients we serve,” said Jonathan Temple, owner of OxyMed LLC.

CMS is set to bring back its Competitive Bidding Program, and legislators at every level need to know the harm it could cause. VGM Group, our members, and providers like Jonathan and OxyMed are working to do just that.

Watch Jonathan’s statement below, and join him in the fight to preserve patients’ access to quality care. Learn how here: https://bit.ly/4fPQH1e.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oenUyH164ck

Hello, my name is Jonathan Temple. I’m the owner of Oxy Med LLC, a family-owned durable medical equipment provider right here in Birmingham, Alabama. I’m rea...

08/13/2025

2025 CMS Proposed Rule Challenges and To-Dos

Need help navigating CMS’s latest proposed rule? If you're unsure how to submit a comment or want clarity on the updates to the Competitive Bidding Program, we've got you covered.

The 2025 CMS Proposed Rule for Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) introduces several significant changes that present both operational and financial challenges for DME companies.