It’s Time for Medicare to Pay for Compression Garments – Support the Lymphedema Treatment Act

Although the Lymphedema Treatment Act was first introduced into Congress back in 2010, it has not yet been passed. This act would provide Medicare coverage for compression garments. Currently, Medicare does not cover compression garments which are an essential part of treatment and management of lymphedema. Compression garments help reduce lymphedema and swelling in the affected area, and help prevent lymphedema flare ups in patients with chronic lymphedema. Without compression garments, patients have significant difficulty keeping their affected area from re-swelling and are at risk for recurring infections and a lower quality of life. Lymphedema is a chronic condition; compression garments (like any garments) wear out over time and the current lack of insurance coverage of compression garments can be a great financial burden to many patients.

Let’s all do our part to make sure The Lymphedema Treatment Act passes.

Please consider contacting your congress members and tell them your stories. Encourage them to support the Lymphedema Treatment Act. Visit their site for more information and how to contact your congressional representatives.  

If you have specific questions regarding lymphedema and compression garments, please feel free to contact us. We recommend and can measure and order compression garments for our patients. If anyone has financial constraints, the National Lymphedema Network has a compression garment program for patients who need financial assistance. Applications can be filled out with one of our therapists, and if they qualify will receive a free compression garment.