Understand the Problem
NCART recently conducted a survey to measure the impact of continued inappropriate reimbursement cuts to components (aka accessories) used with Complex Rehab manual wheelchairs. Of the supplier locations surveyed, an alarming 87% have significantly reduced providing components of Complex Rehab manual wheelchairs or will be forced to do so in the next 90 days. Why? Because CMS continues to apply this reduced pricing to accessories used with Complex Rehab manual wheelchairs even though they no longer apply that pricing to Complex Rehab power wheelchairs. You can read the details here, but the bottom line is that these continued cuts are making it more difficult for individuals in Complex Rehab manual wheelchairs to get what they need, and it's won't be fixed without Congressional action.
Find the Solution
Representatives Lee Zeldin (R-NY) and John Larson (D-CT) helped us take the first step by introducing House Bill H.R. 3730 to stop CMS from continuing to apply these inappropriate cuts that are causing the reduction in access. Outreach has been orchestrated and NCART is keeping the conversation on the desks of Capitol Hill. But we need more advocates who are willing to reach out to Congress to get the bill passed before the end of the year. Asking for support of the bill is as simple as sending a pre-written email to Congress by going to www.ProtectMyMobility.org.
You Can Be The Difference
Margaret Mead once said, "Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has." It takes the determined, unified commitment of an invested group of individuals to enact meaningful changes. We need the disability community to come together with the message, "Pass H.R. 3730 to allow people with disabilities to get needed complex wheelchair systems."
Take Action
Sending an email takes three minutes or less. Just go to the website and input your address. If you're ready to be a part of the group that protects how individuals using Complex Rehab manual wheelchairs are able to get the equipment they need, visit www.ProtectMyMobility.org and send your email today. Share the link with friends, family, and others who will want to take the same steps. If we don't, who will?
About the Author
Mickae Lee has dedicated over 10 years of her career to the complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) industry. For the past six years she has had the honor of working for NCART where she is currently serving as the Director of Advocacy and Communication for the organization. Mickae is passionate about ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to the equipment they need and takes pride in working alongside consumer advocacy organizations, suppliers, equipment manufacturers, clinicians, and consumers to advocate for policy changes.
Most of the stories here on Live Quickie were submitted by readers. Do you have a story to tell? We'd love to hear it. Submit your story here.