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Oncology Rehabilitation: TheLymphedemaTreatmentActPassedbyCongress
December 23, 2022
After years of advocacy, Congress recently passed the Lymphedema Treatment Act (LTA). The LTA, which goes into effect 1/1/24, is a federal bill that aims to improve insurance coverage for the medically necessary, doctor prescribed compression supplies that are the cornerstone of lymphedema treatment. Although this bill will only change Medicare law, it will set a standard for Medicaid and private insurance to follow.
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Over the next year, the Lymphedema Advocacy Group will be working with CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) as they write the rules to implement the coverage. This work will take time, so the changes will not be in effect immediately. The Lymphedema Advocacy Group has developed a ‘Frequently Asked Questions” section of their website to address questions from the public.
Rehabilitation for lymphedema is provided by lymphedema therapists (e.g. occupational or physical therapists). If you’ve experienced swelling associated with cancer treatment, please discuss it with your provider. To learn more about the LTA, click here: LymphedemaTreatment Act.org. To read the full press release, click here.
