Senate Agreement on COVID-19 Legislative and Funding Package; Includes Billions for PPE and Funding to Help Providers Continue Serving Patients
Alexandria, VA – Today, the Senate reached agreement on a legislative package that includes critical funding to address the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) that AMGA members need to care for patients during this public health emergency. AMGA members are on the frontlines of combatting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and any shortage of crucial supplies, such as N95 masks, will compromise their ability to treat patients and prevent further spread of the virus. AMGA’s membership is ready to work with federal, state, and local officials to obtain these needed supplies as soon as possible.
The Senate package also includes $100 billion for healthcare providers to respond to COVID-19. H.R. 748, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) and an accompanying emergency appropriations package provides funding to cover lost revenues that result from this pandemic. AMGA members are working diligently to treat their patients while keeping their providers and community as safe as possible. As part of their COVID-19 response, AMGA members have cancelled their elective surgeries and procedures and are encouraging their patients to stay home. The CARES Act recognizes the significant financial challenges this creates for group practices and integrated health systems.
“The first priority is patient care and safety, and that’s why this funding for PPE is so important,” said AMGA President and CEO Jerry Penso, M.D., M.B.A. “But the Senate also is acknowledging the incredible financial strain COVID-19 is creating for providers, who quickly recognized the need to change their practice patterns so they can fight the virus.”
AMGA appreciates Congress’ efforts during this critical situation and will continue to work with key House and Senate leaders to ensure the federal response to COVID-19 is informed by the experience and recommendations of our members, who are responsible for the care of one in three Americans.
###
About AMGA
AMGA is a trade association leading the transformation of health care in America. Representing multispecialty medical groups and integrated systems of care, we advocate, educate, innovate, and empower our members to deliver the next level of high performance health. AMGA is the national voice promoting awareness of our members’ recognized excellence in the delivery of coordinated, high-quality, high-value care. More than 175,000 physicians practice in our member organizations, delivering care to one in three Americans.