Download this Article CRT Stakeholders and Friends, Great news! Yesterday Congressmen Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) and Joe Crowley (D-NY) joined in a bipartisan reintroduction of the "Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act". Our new bill number is H.R. 1516. The bill language is the same as last year's legislation with one important addition. H.R. 1516 includes a new provision that will allow all CRT codes to be billable as a "purchase" rather than subject to "capped rental" treatment. This recognizes the individualized nature of CRT items and that they are supplied to meet permanent, not short-term, needs. At the time of re-introduction Congressman Sensenbrenner stated: "As a leader in the fight for the rights of the disabled, I want to ensure all Americans have access to the tools needed to live each day to the fullest. Americans with disabilities should not be denied rehabilitation or medical equipment that can enable them to live and work freely and independently. With increased flexibility and proper oversight, we can help those in need while inhibiting fraud and abuse." Congressman Crowley added his comments: "Complex rehabilitation technology products can make a world of difference for people with severe disabilities and other medical conditions, and our legislation will remove barriers to getting these wheelchairs and other services to those who need them to lead a more independent life. I look forward to advancing this legislation that recognizes the importance of maintaining access to these products, as well as puts in place much-needed quality standards and consumer protections that strengthen the Medicare program for individuals, clinicians, and suppliers." We sincerely appreciate the continued leadership of Congressmen Sensenbrenner and Crowley in their pursuit of passage of the CRT legislation in the House. On the Senate side, Senators Thad Cochran (R-MS) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) will be reintroducing the Senate companion bill shortly. In pursuing co-sponsors to H.R.1516 and the upcoming Senate companion bill, we will build on last year's efforts that produced great bipartisan Congressional support with 168 House and 22 Senate members signing on to the previous bills. We also are very happy to announce the Muscular Dystrophy Association has officially pledged their support for the CRT legislation. They will be mobilizing their membership to reach out to Congress to push for passage. MDA joins the list of over 50 national consumer and medical professional organizations supporting the CRT bills. These are very positive developments in our collective mission to increase CRT recognition and protect access for people with disabilities who depend on these specialized products and supporting services. We are in the process of updating our advocacy documents and tools. Stay tuned for more instructions and thanks for your continued support and outreach! Don Donald E. Clayback Executive Director | NCART Office 716-839-9728 | Cell 716-913-4754 [email protected] | www.ncart.us