VGM Government Relations is a major participant in fulfilling the advocacy goals for VGM and its members, and is vital for the future of independent home medical equipment, rehab and O&P providers. The mission of the Government Relations department is to develop and maintain positive relationship with policy makers, community leaders, DME providers, and industry trade associations, and to work with them to promote the DME industry. To accomplish its mission, the Government Relations department works to identify laws, regulations or issues that will directly impact the DME industry; develops and maintains relationships with elected officials in order to develop trust and enhance communications; and develops and maintains relationships with its members and industry trade associations to communicate important information relating to the industry. In 2002, VGM created the position of Vice President – Government Relations and hired John Gallagher to fill this important position. As a veteran of the medical products industry and with experience lobbying for independent businesses in Washington, Gallagher was the perfect fit. Since his hiring, Gallagher has amassed thousands of frequent flier miles traveling back and forth to Washington D.C. He has met with government officials including the United States President, the Senate Finance Committee Chairman, the House Majority and Minority leaders, officials at the Congressional Budget Office and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and many more. His discussions with the government officials always make the case for preserving the ability of the independent dealer to survive and thrive in this marketplace, and ensuring access to quality care and equipment to those who require DME equipment. Gallagher is also a frequent speaker at industry trade association meetings across the country where he presents on the current status of the legislative environment, regulatory issues, and the importance of grassroots. He is also a board member of the Healthcare Quality Association for Accreditation (HQAA) and the Fraud Eradication Advisory Team (FEAT).
