Celebrating the Professionals who Make Home-Based Care Possible

AUSTIN, TX / November 3, 2026 / When illness, injury, or a chronic condition strike, families often discover a lifeline: home medical equipment (HME). From wheelchairs, home oxygen therapy, and other medical supplies, HME allows people to manage their medical needs from the comfort of home.

Governor Abbott has officially proclaimed the second week of November as Home Medical Equipment & Services Appreciation Week in Texas, recognizing the essential role of professionals who make it possible for people of all ages and medical conditions to receive care safely at home. This proclamation also coincides with Homecare Month and National Family Caregivers Month, highlighting the critical role of HME in the care continuum.

"The true value of home medical equipment providers and their services is measured by the quality of life it makes possible," said Mark Gowen, Secretary/Treasurer of the Texas Medical Equipment Providers Association (TexMEP). "It is a child with complex medical needs growing up at home with family, a patient recovering at home in familiar surroundings, or an individual living with a disability maintaining their independence. Behind each of those stories are the dedicated professionals whose expertise and compassion make an extraordinary difference. We thank Governor Abbott for honoring those contributions to the people of our great state."

HME professionals do more than deliver products – they provide end users, families, and caregivers the tools, education, and support they need to thrive. The proclamation highlights the role of HME in:

  • Reducing hospitalizations and health care costs

  • Supporting families and caregivers

  • Empowering individuals with complex medical needs to live at home

  • Strengthening communities by keeping loved ones together

The proclamation honors the accredited suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and service providers who work tirelessly to support those recovering from illness and injury as well as those living with disabilities and complex medical needs.

"By enabling care at home, HME benefits the entire state," explains Ashley Plauché of the American Association for Homecare. "Home-based care is cost-effective for payers, taxpayers, and end users; eases the burdens on hospitals and long-term care facilities; and allows individuals to remain active in schools, workplaces, and communities."

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Media Contact:

Ashley Plauché
American Association for Homecare
ashleyp@aahomecare.org

About:

Texas Medical Providers Association – TexMEP is a nonprofit trade association representing home medical equipment (HME/DME) providers, manufacturers, and service partners across Texas. TexMEP works to increase awareness and understanding of the role HME plays in helping Texans recover from illness and injury, manage chronic conditions, and live independently at home. texmep.org

American Association for Homecare is a 501(c)6 national nonprofit association leading advocacy efforts on behalf of home medical equipment (HME) providers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders working to protect access to high quality medical products and home-based care for millions of Americans. aahomecare.org