“In rural areas where health care delivery remains one of our greatest challenges, it is important that we help patients access the quality health care services they need and deserve,” Ross said. “I am proud to introduce this important legislation on behalf of patients with respiratory and lung disease to ensure they have greater access to medical treatments for their conditions.”

Ross’ legislation, “The Medicare Respiratory Therapy Initiative Act of 2007,” would revise the Medicare law to permit qualified respiratory therapists to provide specialized healthcare services to asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) patients. Those services include smoking cessation, asthma management, medication education and inhaler training.

“This legislation would help break down barriers that some patients currently experience in receiving these important treatments,” Ross said.

Ross said his bill will also give advanced respiratory therapists and physicians the flexibility to provide needed care to Medicare beneficiaries in an out patient setting, whether in a health provider’s office or in a patient’s home.  

Ross holds a seat on the coveted Health Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee where this legislation will be referred. 

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