Late last year, Congress passed the 21st Century Cures Act which included language to delay the implementation of Medicare fee schedule adjustments for Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) products and supporting services, such as wheelchair accessories and seating systems. However, the legislation provided just a six-month delay in the Medicare fee schedule adjustment, and it expires on July 1, 2017.
Fortunately, Congress recently introduced legislation (H.R. 1361 and S. 486), which would permanently exempt CRT wheelchairs and components from Medicare's Competitive Bidding program for people living with disabilities and chronic conditions. This important legislation will protect Medicare beneficiary access to power and manual Complex Rehab Technology, as well as essential components. But it's imperative that we work quickly to ensure that Congress passes this vital legislation prior to the July 1 deadline.
CRT products include individually configured manual and power wheelchairs, seating and positioning systems, and other adaptive devices designed to meet a person's unique medical and functional needs. Access to this specialized equipment is imperative to safeguard quality of life, as well as minimize healthcare costs and maximize independence.
On behalf of the 5.4 million Americans living with paralysis, we need you to act now!
In less than five-minutes, you can connect directly with legislators via email and social media to urge them to support this important legislation.
Remember, your voice is important and we can raise the volume on this critical issue.
Together, we achieve more -- act now!
