By Anna Horner and Serena Agusto-Cox | News & Views
AACVPR’s 2026 Day on the Hill started off strong, underpinned by a hearty breakfast, an infectious air of camaraderie, and inspiring testimony to set the tone for a day of advocacy for cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. CR/PR providers were welcomed to the Capitol on March 4 by staff from the offices of Reps. Jim McGovern (D-MA) and John Joyce, MD (R-PA). The staffers discussed the benefits of the Sustaining Outpatient Services Act (H.R. 7666/S. 3908); the Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act (H.R. 783/S. 248); and the recently passed Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 7148), which includes a provision to extend Medicare telehealth and in-home CR/PR rehab flexibilities.
Rep. McGovern’s staffer told AACVPR members that personal stories really make the difference, grounding legislation in reality and helping garner support. She shared that she is driven by the medical experiences of her father, who completed eight weeks of CR to improve heart function before receiving a kidney transplant, with her as a living donor. While her father’s CR program was thankfully just 20 minutes from his home, improving access to CR, PR, and other preventive services is an important priority for her and Rep. McGovern. She expressed pleasure at seeing so many from AACVPR advocating for the Sustaining Outpatient Services Act (H.R. 7666/S. 3908).
The staffer from Rep. Joyce’s office, meanwhile, focused on the three years of work that culminated in the passage of the telehealth legislation, noting that the measure is great for patients as well as for providers because it improves patient health and helps keep them out of the hospital. With the provisions only extended through 2027, he encouraged CR/PR professionals to not rest on their laurels, but continue the work needed to achieve a permanent extension.
AACVPR members left the breakfast energized and ready to tackle their legislative meetings, with a focus on personal stories and patient experiences. The recent legislative victory has bolstered their spirits and given them the momentum they need to ensure CR and PR access and the best possible patient outcomes.