Pennsylvania provider receives not-so-rude reception

I read your article regarding the HME provider who visited her congressman (See "Provider receives rude reception" HME News March 2006). I just wanted to share with you my experience with my local congressman, Rep. Timothy Murphy, R-Pa. When I called Murphy's office and asked for an appointment to discuss the Deficit Reduction Act and competitive bidding, they asked that I e-mail specific information to them prior to the meeting. I did. At the meeting, Murphy and his two aides were willing to listen to my concerns and even took the time to review the information I had sent. Murphy's aide said that he would forward the information to another legislative aide in Washington for his review. Murphy was very open and honest with me regarding his vote; however, he assured me that he had some concerns regarding beneficiaries managing equipment on their own. The next day, I received a telephone call from his aide in Pittsburgh, thanking me for coming in to visit with Murphy. The aide let me know that, indeed, the information was sent to Washington. The following day, I received a telephone call from Murphy's legislative aide in Washington, and he also thanked me for meeting with the congressman. Again, he reiterated that Murphy had concerns for our beneficiaries, and he said that they would be working with Jane Orie, a Republican state senator from Pennsylvania, and AAHomecare on this issue. I thought it was important to share this with you, because I was very excited about my meeting with Murphy. He understands that our industry means to aid in the reduction in healthcare costs, and he is committed to ensure that beneficiaries are provided with the equipment and service that they deserve--without compromising their care. - Tammy Zelenko, president/CEO, AdvaCare Home Services, Bridgeville, Pa.