Melanie Ewald: ‘My vision is to develop a roadmap'

By Liz Beaulieu, Editor
Updated 9:43 AM CDT, Fri May 16, 2025
WATERLOO, Iowa – Melanie Ewald is looking forward to digging into payer relations and reimbursement work on an industry level in her new role at VGM & Associates.
“Being able to use my expertise to educate stakeholders but also engage and interact with HME providers directly – this kind of role was always one that was attractive to me,” said Ewald, who was recently named vice president of payer relations and reimbursement for the company. “It’s both the macro and the micro.”
Ewald, who is also an attorney specializing in health care, has previously worked in several health care settings, including hospital-based clinics and Hillrom/Baxter, and has been involved in several associations, including OAMES and AAHomecare.
HME News: How did you first get involved in the industry?
Melanie Ewald: My introduction to the industry came during my time at Hillrom/Baxter. I quickly recognized the critical role providers play in enabling patients to remain in their homes, receiving the care they need. This exposure was eye-opening, revealing the significant challenges faced by the industry—yet also deeply inspiring. It shaped my dedication to advocating for patients and supporting providers in overcoming these obstacles.
HME: What do you see as the biggest challenge and opportunity in the industry related to payer relations?
Ewald: The biggest challenge has been and still is stagnant and declining reimbursement rates, which are then exacerbated by increasing operating costs and compressed margins.
HME: And opportunity?
Ewald: It’s really going to be critical that we, as an industry, find a way to tell our story demonstrating the value of HME. How do we keep patients in their homes by having access to these products and services and actually reduce the overall cost of health care?
HME: Are outcomes a good way to show that value?
Ewald: Being able to demonstrate quantifiable outcomes in a meaningful way to payers, such that they understand the need for adequate reimbursement for their members, is key.
HME: What do you hope to accomplish in this role, both short and long term?
Ewald: In the short term, I aim to provide targeted support and education to VGM members on payer-related topics. Long term, my vision is to develop a comprehensive strategy and roadmap to guide our members through the evolving health care landscape. I want to empower them to not only adapt but also thrive.
Comments