In less than one month, NCOA's network of advocates has sent 4,300 messages to members of Congress about the importance of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA). Thank you to everyone who has sent a message about this issue!

The high volume of messages has helped MIPPA break through the (mild) chaos that often accompanies the final sessions of Congress before a new administration comes to town.

Right now, all signs point to a continuing resolution that extends funding for the government at current levels. However, we're concerned that we still have no clarity on where MIPPA will fall on the priority list. 

When we talk to lawmakers in Congress, members of both parties tell us they appreciate the need to bring down the costs of health care for individuals and the government.

This could be a valuable point of approach for aging policy advocates! MIPPA increases access to preventive care, a well-known cost-saver.

The last session of 2024 looks to be focused primarily on a continuing resolution that would merely extend government funding at current levels into early next year. MIPPA might be briefly extended for a few months, but we're hoping Congress chooses to do more, giving long-term certainty to Medicare beneficiaries and aging services professionals.

And, surprise! There's a chance that reauthorization of the Older Americans Act could happen this year, after all. A sudden flurry of bipartisan effort in the House has given this outcome new life. The OAA is the political backbone of a lot of aging services, demand for which has skyrocketed in the last few years. We'll be sure to share ways to act when the time comes.

In the meantime, stay focused on securing MIPPA funding and enjoying the holiday season. We'll see you on the other side of the year!

Cheers,
The NCOA Public Policy & Advocacy Team 

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