Letter from the Chair
Anthony Cuzzola Vice President JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute
Moving Beyond 2020 As I think back over the past year, it’s an understatement to say that 2020 was a year like no other for AMRPA, our nation and local communities. As an association (and individual hospitals), we faced unprecedented challenges from the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), plus a flurry of social, environmental and political challenges. And while it’s encouraging to see the recent progress in vaccine development, it is clear that the winter months will be difficult for hospital leaders, clinicians and staff as COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates climb to even higher levels. I’ve had a passion for the mission and work of AMRPA for many years, and I look forward to stepping into the role of chairman. At the same time, I recognize that 2021 will bring with it new challenges for the field at large. For those reasons, one of my first actions will be to restart our free, industry-wide calls focused on COVID-19 issues, protocols and procedures. In early phases of the PHE, the calls were critical to member engagement and education. As the pandemic continues to evolve, we will take the necessary steps to ensure that our members continue to have access to the latest clinical, operational and policy resources. In addition to the uncertainty tied to the PHE, the changing political climate will make 2021 an even more of a pivotal year for AMPRA. The 117th Congress and incoming Biden administration have significant implications for pandemic preparedness response legislation, the fate of the Affordable Care Act, and post-acute care payment reform efforts. AMPRA staff and counsel will engage with members on what lies ahead in the lame duck Congressional session and the first 100 days of the new administration. I urge you to review the resources available on AMRPA Access for the latest insights and analysis of the political landscape and our field. Finally, I’d like to thank our members for their continuous engagement and leadership over the past months. Despite the unanticipated challenges, AMRPA was able to secure key regulatory waivers, successfully advocate against the non-physician practitioner proposal in the IRF PPS proposed rule, and host our first virtual Fall Conference, just to name a few successes. These outcomes are due entirely to the dedication and passion of its members, and should position us well to weather the unknowns of 2021. I look forward to leading such an outstanding group of hospital leaders into the new year.
AMRPA Magazine / December 2020
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