Sewell introduces legislation to prevent cuts to Medicare program

Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced a legislation with Rep. Kevin Hern (OK-01) titled the Home Health Stabilization Act that a press release from Sewell said seeks to prevent proposed cuts to the Medicare Home Health Program. 

“Home health is a lifesaver for millions of seniors and their loved ones, especially in rural states like Oklahoma, where hospitals and nursing facilities may be hours away,” said Rep. Hern.

“Slashing home health payments not only undermines access to this critical benefit, but it also drives up overall Medicare costs by forcing patients into more expensive care settings. This bill ensures seniors can get the care they need at home, while protecting taxpayers from wasteful spending.”

Sewell's press release stated that that cuts have caused a "strain" among nurses, therapists, and home health aides who serve beneficiaries. It claims that more than 1,000 home health agencies have closed since 2020, leading to a shortage in services. 

“Home health is a lifesaver for millions of seniors and their loved ones, especially in rural states like Oklahoma, where hospitals and nursing facilities may be hours away,” said Rep. Hern.

“Slashing home health payments not only undermines access to this critical benefit, but it also drives up overall Medicare costs by forcing patients into more expensive care settings. This bill ensures seniors can get the care they need at home, while protecting taxpayers from wasteful spending.”