On April 4,2025 the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) issued the final rule for the CY 2026 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D programs. While the proposed expansion of AOM coverage had offered hope to many—especially individuals with disabilities who face barriers to physical activity—CMS ultimately decided against moving forward with the policy.
The Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition, which is coordinated by Powers Law, and its member organizations expresses disappointment with this outcome and continues to advocate for broader access to these potentially life-changing treatments. For people with mobility disabilities, coverage of AOMs is about more than weight loss—it’s about function, independence, return to work, and improved health outcomes.
The full press release includes additional information, statements from ITEM Coalition Co-Coordinators Peter Thomas and Michael Barnett, as well as a personal story shared by a member of one of the Coalition’s supporting organizations. Thirty-three ITEM Coalition members submitted comments in favor of the proposed expansion.
ITEM Coalition’s press release is available here: ITEM Coalition Press Release on AOM Coverage Decision
Powers Managing Partner, Peter Thomas, who works closely with the Healthcare and Government Relations & Public Policy teams at Powers, serves as lead counsel and Co-Coordinator, along with Powers’ Director of Government Relations, Michael Barnett, ITEM Coalition. If you have any questions or would like to arrange an interview, please feel free to reach out. Peter can be reached at Peter.Thomas@PowersLaw.com, and Michael can be reached at Michael.Barnett@PowersLaw.com.