Urging the Congress of the United States to establish policies that would provide greater access to blood transfusions for hospice patients with blood cancer.
The bill, if supported at the federal level, would necessitate changes in how Medicare reimburses hospice providers for blood transfusions by allowing for separate payment models. Currently, the per diem structure fails to adequately cover the costs of transfusions, which can reach an average of $2,388 per unit. Given that many patients may require multiple transfusions each week, this financial burden often deters individuals from accessing necessary hospice services. Therefore, the resolution aims to lessen the financial obstacles faced by patients and improve their overall end-of-life care experience.
House Resolution 76 (HR76) urges the Congress of the United States to implement policies that would enhance access to blood transfusions for hospice patients suffering from blood cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. The resolution highlights the critical need for these transfusions as an essential component of palliative care, aimed at improving comfort and quality of life for patients at the end of life, rather than extending their lifespan. It contends that due to misconceptions regarding the nature of blood transfusions and inadequate Medicare reimbursement, many patients do not seek appropriate hospice care, leading to excessive hospital treatments and diminished end-of-life quality.
The sentiment surrounding HR76 seems largely supportive within the context of healthcare advocacy, particularly among medical professionals and stakeholders who recognize the necessity of making blood transfusions accessible for hospice patients. There is a shared belief that enhancing these services will lead to better end-of-life care outcomes. However, challenges remain regarding public awareness and potential legislative inertia at the federal level, indicating a need for ongoing advocacy to ensure this change is prioritized and achieved.
Notably, the resolution aims to address not only the reimbursement fixes but also the wider perceptions of blood transfusions beyond simply being viewed as potential life-prolonging treatments. The contention lies in effectively communicating the importance of blood transfusions as a genuine palliative measure. By framing this discussion within the larger context of hospice care, HR76 seeks to foster an understanding that supports patient autonomy and dignity in end-of-life decision-making, and to advocate for structural policy changes that can lead to better care for those with serious health conditions.