Leadership Session Details

We are pleased to announce the 2019 National CRT Leadership and Advocacy Conference May 1, 2019 – Leadership Day Sessions

8:30 to 8:50  “Welcome and Opening Comments

8:50 to 9:20  “No limbs. Just a Smile for Miles.”  Gabe Adams has been traveling the country and sharing the extraordinary story of his life and overcoming its challenges. Born without limbs to a single and poor mother in Brazil, he faced a bleak future with limited options. However, divine intervention brought word of him to his future adoptive parents in the United States, where he embarked on a journey of courage, perseverance and a dedication to inspire others. He’ll share his experiences along with his motto: “No limbs. Just a smile for miles.” Speaker: Gabe Adams

9:30 to 10:30  “Medicare Sets the Tone” Medicare continues to be a major influencer regarding health care policy and coverage. This session will review the relationships of HHS, CMS, and Congress and identify the points of influence. Recent Medicare and Medicare Advantage policy changes and those being discussed around supplemental benefits for people with complex needs will be presented. Attendees will also be provided updates on ongoing work with CMS, including efforts to secure Medicare coverage of power seat elevation and standing components. Speakers: Peter Thomas and Henry Claypool

11:00 to 12:00  “Holding Medicaid MCOs Accountable”  Managed Care plays an increasing role in state Medicaid programs, but there are rules that must be followed. This session will present the statutes and regulations governing Managed Care Organizations that contract to cover Medicaid beneficiaries. Real-life examples of violations that inappropriately hurt access to CRT will be reviewed and attendees will learn about the strategies, resources, and advocacy assistance available to resolve them. Speakers: Marge Gustas and Joe Clark

12:10 to 1:20  “Bootcamp Lessons and CRT”  Some would say we have all had our own version of a Bootcamp of sorts with experiences, influences, people, and places that have transformed us. There is much to be learned from Bootcamp because it is one of the most difficult tests of endurance. But at the end it creates an elite team by changing behaviors, thought processes, instilling discipline, and improving the person. This session will walk through the Cadence of Bootcamp and the Transformational Qualities it holds and how to apply them. Speaker: Ty Bello

1:30 to 2:30  “On the CRT Radar”  There’s a lot going on in the world of CRT and this session will cover two topics: CRT Outcome Data and Medicare’s Competitive Bidding Program. Outcome data is an important area for CRT coverage; attendees will hear the latest information regarding the Functional Mobility Assessment (FMA) outcome program. Medicare will be rolling out a new round of Competitive Bidding; attendees will be provided an overview of what lies ahead. Speakers: Claudia Amortegui and Tyler Mahncke

2:40 to 3:30  “Advocacy at Home…Where the Rubber Meets the Road” Successful advocacy can take many forms and advocating at the local level can be one of the most effective. But sometimes getting started can be the hardest part! This session will review the strategies, activities, and resources that can be easily employed with some basic planning and effort. Attendees will hear real experiences and walk away armed with the information to be a true CRT champion right from home. Speakers: Gerry Dickerson and Cathy Carver

4:00 to 5:30 “Congressional Prep with State Delegations”  This session will prepare attendees to get the most out of their visits with Congressional offices. 2019 CRT legislation details, key talking points, and supporting documents will be reviewed. Tips on having an effective meeting and the importance of post-conference follow up will also be presented. Attendees will meet with others from their states so the following day’s meetings can be best coordinated. Speakers: Don Clayback, Congressional Staffer, and Consumer Advocate

6:00 to 7:30  “CRT United Reception”  It’s great to be part of a conference that brings together a cross section of CRT Community members all under one roof. After a day full of education and discussion this is the perfect opportunity to cap the day off with some food, drink, and networking. Come ready to relax and enjoy each other’s company before we all tackle Capitol Hill the next day.