Thanks to PHA advocates and other patient organizations, a bill to improve oxygen access has been introduced in Congress.

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) introduced the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform bill Feb. 28, with Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) as cosponsors.

The bill proposes to remove supplemental oxygen from Medicare’s competitive bidding process, making oxygen and related equipment more affordable and accessible, says Katie Kroner, the Pulmonary Hypertension Association’s vice president of advocacy and patient engagement.

“Many people with pulmonary hypertension rely on supplemental oxygen,” Kroner says. “However, many of them struggle to access the equipment they need to live fulfilling, productive lives because of barriers to accessing the equipment that is best for them. As a result, many become homebound and isolated.”

The legislation also would improve access to specialist care by requiring insurance to pay for respiratory therapy services. The bill also would spell out patient rights related to oxygen.

PHA has advocated for years to improve access to supplemental oxygen. For the past year, PHA has worked with a coalition that includes the American Lung Association, American Thoracic Society and other patient organizations to bring forward oxygen-access legislation.

“The bill’s introduction in the Senate is just the first step,” Kroner says. “Advocate voices are essential to drive the new bill through the legislative process.”

Use PHA’s template to send a message to your senator and representatives. Share your story to highlight the importance of oxygen-access reform. Contact your senators now.