Re: U.S. Politics: re: Please priortize your mission!

Re: U.S. Politics: re: Please priortize your mission!

Bobvanhook

In a message dated 98-03-17 21:35:00 EST, you write:

<< Dear Bob,
 The following is what everyone should hear because it sets forth what is the
problem with the arcane system from HCFA. But frankly, given the size of the
organizations, and the appetite for money by politicians, do we have an ice
cubes' chance in hell of ever succeeding? Will the right decisions be done
for what's right for the O&P profession?. I apologize for my somewhat
caustic tone of my previous message, O and P is getting less about the
humanity of what we do and more for the budget. I am not naive about the
future of our profession, all must change as that is the constant of the
world. Nothing stands still. You have convinced me of your mission and
goals. Good Luck.
 Pat Peick >>

Thanks, Pat. It really helps to hear that you at least think we're trying to
do the right thing. You are absolutely right. HCFA is the consumate
bureaucracy -- a world unto themselves. Congress is hungry for money, because
they are rightly concerned that spending is out of control. Health care,
Medicare in particular, is their favorite target because it IS the 800 lb.
gorilla. If it keeps growing, according to some analysts it could be the
whole Federal budget.

At the AOPA Policy Forum, a speaker noted that in 1994, the Federal government
and the American people decided that they did not want a government run health
care system. They agreed to turn health care over to the market. A lot of
what you are seeing as a turn from humanity to concern for money in O&P is
just a reflection of what is going on in the health care system. Market
forces are driving the system and government is trying to imitate the market.

I still see a lot of humanity in O&P. This is true in both the independent
companies and the larger, consolidated ones (which are really just a bunch of
small companies operating together). I think we all need to celebrate the
successes of the O&P field and strive for even higher levels of quality. But
we have to remember, too, that You have to do well to do good. I'm not sure
who said that first, but it points out well that O&P has to take care of
business if it is going to have the resources to take care of people.

It is the humanity of O&P that is going to carry the day with our policy
objectives in Congress. The policies AOPA is advocating will benefit not only
the O&P profession, but the beneficiary and the Medicare program. I truly
believe we can do it, and I and AOPA are committed to giving it our best shot.
As my Momma used to say, Can't never could, but try can.

Thanks again for your comments.

Bob

Robert T. Van Hook, CAE
Executive Director
American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association
1650 King Street, Suite 500
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703/836-7116
Fax: 703/836-0838
Email: <Email Address Redacted>
Webpage: www.theaopa.org