1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support legislation that ensures equal access and affordability of durable medical equipment for elderly Americans and people with disabilities. Recent policy discussions, including a proposed 6-month ban on certain medical equipment under the current administration, have created dangerous uncertainty for millions of Americans who depend on life-sustaining devices. Durable medical equipment like CPAP machines for sleep apnea patients, wheelchairs, oxygen concentrators, and home monitoring systems are not luxuries. They are essential tools that allow disabled and elderly individuals to live independently, manage chronic conditions, and maintain their health. Any disruption in access to this equipment can have immediate and severe consequences, including hospitalization, loss of independence, and preventable deaths. The healthcare community, including numerous healthcare workers and disabled individuals, has expressed serious concerns about policies that restrict access to medical equipment. When we create barriers to obtaining necessary medical devices through cost increases, arbitrary bans, or bureaucratic obstacles, we effectively deny disabled and elderly Americans their right to equal participation in society. I am asking you to champion legislation that codifies the following protections: guaranteed access to medically necessary durable equipment without arbitrary restrictions, price controls or subsidies that ensure affordability regardless of income, and expedited approval processes that prevent dangerous gaps in care. These protections should apply to all forms of durable medical equipment prescribed by licensed healthcare providers. This is fundamentally about equal rights and human dignity. Americans with disabilities and our elderly population deserve the same opportunities for health, independence, and quality of life as everyone else. I need to know that you will stand with this vulnerable population and ensure that access to life-sustaining medical equipment is protected under law.