Thursday, July 28, 2022

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 28, 2022)—Mobility stakeholders and patient group leaders are preparing for an expected opening of the National Coverage Determination (NCD) for seat elevation and standing systems for power wheelchairs. The American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) is working with the Independence Through the Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition to prepare to publicize the NCD and help generate a strong public comment response from the home medical equipment (HME) community, mobility device users and other interested groups.
 
Medicare does not currently cover seat elevation and standing systems in power wheelchairs, viewing these systems as “not primarily medical in nature.” The opening of the NCD will allow mobility stakeholders, clinicians, patients and caregivers an opportunity to help change that policy and allow individuals with significant disabilities to benefit from Medicare coverage for these devices.
 
As mobility providers and manufacturers mark the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act this week, they can celebrate the resulting major societal and technological advances that have enhanced the quality of life for people with significant challenges and their caregivers. Soon, stakeholders will have an opportunity to add to that legacy by strengthening access to seat elevation and standing systems.
 
AAHomecare is preparing to help the HME community and the mobility patients they serve make a passionate and effective case for taking advantage of the best available technologies to support individuals with disabilities. The NCD will likely only be open for a 30-day comment period. The association is asking providers and manufacturers help spread the word and deliver a strong message to Medicare policymakers. 
 
Policy Roundtable Set for August 3
You can learn more about the potential of these devices and implications for coverage by attending a virtual online policy roundtable on seat elevation and standing systems hosted by the National Council on Disability – Wednesday, August 3 – 1:00-3:00pm (ET). This stage-setting event will feature perspectives from Congress, persons with mobility disabilities, clinicians, and other stakeholders. See program details and register here.