Due to the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Policy Forum    was held as a virtual conference.  Although the Forum was abbreviated and did not include any Congressional visits, it is still critically important to advocate for the profession.

The highlight of this year’s Forum was Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth’s personal account of working with an ABC certified practitioner. Panelists included AOPA board member Teri Kuffel, JD along with AOPA staff members.

Current issues discussed in detail during the event included the Medicare O&P Patient-Centered Care Act (H.R. 5262) and the Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act (H.R. 2487). One of the main goals of H.R. 5262 is to create a more definitive distinction between O&P clinical patient care and the provision of DME. The Wounded Warrior Workforce bill creates grants to universities to create or expand educational programs in orthotics and prosthetics. Attendees were encouraged to contact their representatives to ask for their support of these two important legislative priorities for our profession.

ABC was well represented at the event with board members and staff participating.

To view a recording of the Forum or to access a customizable pre-written letter to email your legislators, visit AOPAnet.org.