Altoona Times

Today, a group of U.S. Representatives has reintroduced the Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act. This legislation aims to allow Medicare beneficiaries to access in-home cardiopulmonary rehabilitation services permanently.

Rep. John Joyce, M.D., expressed his support for the bill, stating: “As a doctor, I understand that many patients recover and rehabilitate best from the safety of their own homes. By permanently expanding access to in-home cardiopulmonary care for Medicare beneficiaries, this legislation will improve outcomes and allow patients to receive the highest quality of care from the comfort of their homes.”

Rep. Scott Peters highlighted the benefits for seniors recovering at home and emphasized: “The Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act will help seniors recover from major cardiac events at home and expand access to telehealth for those who might otherwise struggle to reach a doctor.”

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick pointed out that this initiative enhances recovery prospects and life expectancy: "Medicare patients deserve the ability to access vital cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services from the comfort and safety of their own homes." He added that it provides a "common-sense, forward-looking solution for our seniors."

Finally, Rep. Jimmy Panetta underscored the importance of addressing heart disease challenges by saying: “As we continue to address the challenges of heart disease in our communities, ensuring access to critical rehabilitation services is essential.” He mentioned how this bipartisan legislation builds on models developed during the pandemic.

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death in America, with over 600,000 deaths annually. Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation can significantly reduce rehospitalization risks and mortality rates. During COVID-19, temporary measures allowed reimbursement for virtual rehab programs under Medicare; however, these expired in 2023.