Federal Issues
Congress Must Act to Protect Access:
People with significant disabilities depend on specialized wheelchairs, seating systems, and other adaptive equipment to maximize their independence and address their medical needs. These items are collectively referred to as Complex Rehab Technology (CRT). In recent years, access to these individually-configured products and their supporting services has been threatened by various reimbursement cuts and policy changes. Advocates continue to diligently work alongside Congress to introduce legislation that would provide permanent protection for CRT moving forward. Details on these Bills and how you can help are provided below.
Legislation for Complex Rehab Wheelchairs
Bills H.R. 2293 (introduced by Representatives John Larson and Lee Zeldin) and S. 1223 (introduced by Senators Bob Casey and Rob Portman) will halt inappropriate Medicare payment cuts for critical components of Complex Rehab Manual Wheelchairs and permanently exclude them from the Competitive Bidding Program. Contact your Members of Congress and ask them to sign on as a copsonsor to this important legislation!
Additional Resources:
1. Background Paper
2. H.R. 2293 / S. 1223 Cosponsors
3. H.R. 2293 Bill Language
4. S. 1223 Bill Language
5. 2017-2018 Cosponsors
A Separate Benefit for CRT is Needed
Bill H.R. 2408 (introduced by Representatives Jim Sensenbrenner and Brian Higgins) will establish a separate benefit category for CRT within Medicare to allow better access and safeguards through proper segregation and needed improvements in coverage, coding, and supplier standards. Contact your Members of Congress to ask that they sign on as cosponsors of this important legislation!
Additional Resources:
1. Background Paper
2. H.R. 2408 Cosponsors
3. H.R. 2408 Bill Language
4. 2017-2018 Cosponsors
The CRT Separate Benefit Category initiative is being led by the following Steering Committee Organizations:
- National Coalition for Assistive & Rehab Technology (NCART)
- American Association for Homecare (AAH)
- National Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (NRRTS)
- Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)
- Clinician Task Force (CTF)
- United Spinal Association (USA)
- Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid Coalition (ITEM)