United Spinal Secures Leading Public Policy and Durable Medical Equipment Specialist: Alex Bennewith is New Director of Government Relations

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Nov 17, 2011, 09:15 ET

NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- United Spinal Association announced today the appointment of Ms. Alex Bennewith as its new Director of Government Relations. Ms. Bennewith will be leading United Spinal's legislative and regulatory efforts on Medicare and Medicaid matters and addressing FDA, CDC and other health-related agency concerns.

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Working from the United Spinal Washington, D.C. office, Ms. Bennewith will be joining the staff on November 28, 2011. Formerly she was Senior Manager of Government Affairs for the American Association for Homecare (AAH).

"We are very pleased that Alex will bring her expertise to bear on our advocacy of critically important topics, particularly in the area of the coverage of necessary durable medical equipment (DME) and the promotion of home- and community-based services and supports for those with spinal cord injuries, disorders and other disabilities," said Joe Isaacs, United Spinal's Vice President of Public Policy.

In addition to her trade group experience at AAH, Ms. Bennewith has served the policy interests of patients/consumers at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where she managed federal advocacy concerns and oversaw the Foundation's state-based advocacy agenda, and at the Spina Bifida Association of America, where, in addition to advocacy, she engaged in fund development activities. Prior to these positions, Ms. Bennewith worked in the Washington, D.C. government affairs office of Bristol-Myers Squibb.

"I've enjoyed working with Alex on DME issues related to coverage and competitive bidding and believe her experience with both consumer and corporate interests will be a major asset to achieving our goals," stated Paul J. Tobin, United Spinal's President and CEO.

Ms. Bennewith is a graduate of the School of Public Affairs at American University in Washington, D.C., where she earned her Master's degree in Public Administration. Her undergraduate degree was earned at Brandeis University in Waltham, MA.

About United Spinal Association

United Spinal is a national 501(c) (3) nonprofit membership organization formed in 1946 by paralyzed veterans and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Americans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D), including multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, ALS and post-polio. It played a significant role in writing the Americans with Disabilities Act, and made important contributions to the Fair Housing Amendments Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. Membership is free and is open to all individuals with SCI/D. United Spinal was instrumental in getting New York City to create sidewalk curb ramps and accessible public transportation that has been used as a model for many United States cities.

SOURCE United Spinal Association