The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will host a federal public hearing on November 8 to discuss potential reimbursement for thermal fuses used in fire prevention, as reported by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).
The hearing will serve as a platform for fire safety advocates to present their support for the inclusion of bi-directional fuses in CMS’s funding considerations.
Thermal fuses are noted for their role in preventing fires, with proponents highlighting the potential for a 15% reduction in fire-related deaths if these devices receive federal funding.
CMS has yet to make a decision regarding the inclusion of thermal fuses in its reimbursement policy, leaving the matter open for public input.
The upcoming hearing will allow stakeholders, including experts and advocates, to present technical insights and real-world data supporting the safety and preventive benefits of these devices.
During the hearing, a panel of experts will provide detailed presentations on thermal fuse technology and its practical applications in fire safety.
Richard Radford of BPR will open with a 15-minute discussion on the technical aspects of thermal fuses.
His presentation will cover the operational benefits of these devices and their relevance in fire prevention strategies.
Following Radford’s address, Raymond A. Reynolds, Director of Fire & EMS for the City of Nevada and a member of the IAFC Fire & Life Safety Section (FLSS) Board, will speak for five minutes.
Reynolds will offer his insights on national fire safety initiatives and the role of CMS reimbursement in supporting these efforts.
His contribution aims to provide CMS with a comprehensive view of how thermal fuses can enhance public safety across communities.
Amy Acton, a burn survivor and CEO of the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, is scheduled to address the hearing with a focus on burn prevention and the positive outcomes thermal fuses can provide for burn survivors.
Acton will share her personal experiences and highlight the broader health benefits these safety devices offer to individuals who are vulnerable to fire-related injuries.
Her testimony aims to underscore the potential impact of CMS funding for thermal fuses on the quality of life and safety for at-risk populations.
Dr. Clifford Sheckter, a burn trauma surgeon from Stanford University and Director of the Regional Burn Center at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, will also participate.
Sheckter will discuss the potential cost savings and quality-of-life improvements associated with the use of thermal fuses, particularly for patients relying on home oxygen.
His insights will focus on how federal funding for these devices could contribute to better health outcomes and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
The CMS hearing provides a rare opportunity for the public to participate in shaping the future of fire safety funding.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend the virtual hearing, listen to the expert testimonies, and contribute their own perspectives on the topic.
The hearing will be accessible via Zoom, with instructions provided for both online and dial-in options.
The inclusion of thermal fuses in CMS’s reimbursement policy could have a lasting impact on fire prevention efforts nationwide.
Public participation is encouraged to provide a broad range of views and support informed decision-making.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will hold a public hearing on November 8 to discuss reimbursement for thermal fuses.
Thermal fuses are noted for their potential to reduce fire-related deaths by up to 15% if funded.
Expert presentations will include technical aspects, health benefits, and cost implications, with speakers such as Richard Radford, Raymond A.
Reynolds, Amy Acton, and Dr. Clifford Sheckter contributing insights.
The hearing will be open to public participation, allowing individuals to engage in discussions about the future of fire safety policies.
