ABC Board Director/Past President, Brett Saunders, CPO and ABC Executive Director, Cathy Carter were grateful for the opportunity to attend this year’s Policy Forum.

On April 15-16, they joined 100+ OP&P providers, patients and stakeholders from over 31 states to urge members of Congress to support crucial legislation that would improve the lives of those living with limb loss or limb difference. 

The two-day event focused on encouraging lawmakers to support the Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act —legislation that would fundamentally ensure patients are receiving the best care possible from licensed, credentialed and trained professionals. The act also helps guarantee that patient care is easily accessible, while reducing the fraud and abuse that can carry both patient care and financial costs.

The Forum also saw its largest number of students this year with 38 in attendance thanks to University grants and sponsorships from the following O&P organizations: ABC, the Academy, AOPA, BOC, NAAOP and NCOPE.

“This year’s Policy Forum has the most potential for successful legislative progress I’ve seen in many years,” stated Saunders. “With bills in both the House and Senate and a very favorable cost savings analysis to help push this Act over the finish line, we need everyone in OP&P to contact their elected officials asking for support. It is important that we relay our patient’s experiences and stories and explain how current rules are preventing them from receiving the care they need.”