Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (D, NJ-11) has become a cosponsor of bill HR3133, the Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act of 2023. Sherrill became a cosponsor for this bill on July 19, and is now one of twelve representatives nationwide supporting this bill.
Sherrill represents New Jersey’s 11th congressional district, which includes portions of Essex, Morris, and Passaic Counties.
What is HR3133 about?
Bill HR3133 Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act of 2023 is a proposed amendment of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for acupuncturist services under the Medicare program. Currently, acupuncturists are not recognized providers through Medicare.
While we appreciate not all acupuncturists accept insurance in their practice, NJAS believes that the ability to accept Medicare for payment should be an option available to all acupuncturists. Supporting HR3133 ensures that licensed acupuncturists are recognized at a national level as a healthcare practitioners.
Adding momentum to this bill
One of the best ways to get this bill supported is by making our voices heard. This includes practitioners, patients, students, healthcare allies — everyone! This bill is nationwide, so be sure to reach out to your family, friends, and colleagues in other states and let them know their local representatives can support HR3133 as well. Here are two ways we can all reach out to legislators:
If you’re a New Jersey resident, contact your local legislators. Use this tool on the New Jersey Legislature website to find out who supports you locally. If you’re working out of your home town, be sure to reach out to legislators for both your residence and your business location.
Residents of every state can use the tool developed by ASA and NCCAOM. This SMS-based tool to generate both an email and a Twitter message to your local Congressional Representative. You can send the message immediately, or edit the message to personalize it for you.
Text any of the phrases below to 52886 and follow the link you’ll receive in reply:
“Acupuncture” – Acupuncturists seeking support for H.R. 3133
“Student” – Acupuncture students seeking support for H.R. 3133
“Acupuncture Patient” – Non-Medicare patients seeking support for H.R. 3133
“Senior Citizen” – Prospective and current patients of acupuncture who are Medicare beneficiaries
“Acupuncture Ally” – Allies (non-acupuncture providers, family members of patients, patient advocacy groups, community members, etc.) of the acupuncture profession seeking support for H.R. 3133
Example: If you’re an acupuncturist, text Acupuncture to 52886
Share this information with your patients, on your website, and on your social media. It is important that work together to make our voices heard and get recognition for our profession!
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