Legislation that would expand Medicare coverage for lymphedema-related compression garments has finally made it out of the U.S. House of Representatives and could be included in a larger end-of-year legislative package. If signed into law as expected, the act could affect more than 3 million Medicare beneficiaries living with the condition.

The Lymphedema Treatment Act was introduced in the House by Rep. Janice Schakowsky, D-Ill., and had more than 350 co-sponsors. The companion Senate bill was introduced by Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and had more than 70 co-sponsors. The next step is potential inclusion of the legislation in any legislative package that Congress formulates during the lame duck session in December.

APTA worked closely with the Lymphedema Advocacy Group around the legislation and promoted public involvement via the group's Lymphedema Treatment Act website. The group is a volunteer organization of patients, caregivers, health care professionals, and industry partners.