NCART Video Highlights Access Problems

WASHINGTON–The National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab
Technology has released an educational video entitled
“All’s NOT Well in Wellsville,” showing the types
of access problems that are occurring for people with disabilities
who require complex rehab equipment such as specialized power
wheelchairs, custom positioning systems and other adaptive
equipment.
 
Reimbursement levels for complex rehab products and services have
been significantly reduced over the past three years, an NCART
release pointed out. “In 2006, power wheelchairs and
accessories were reduced by 27 percent. Then in 2009 this
equipment, along with seating systems, repair parts and other
items, were reduced an additional 9.5 percent. As a consequence,
the availability of the necessary technology and the services has
suffered,” NCART said.
 
“There is a small group of people in the U.S. that have
significant disabilities and deal with physical, functional and
cognitive challenges every day. They, and their medical teams, use
assistive technology and rehab equipment to maximize their function
and minimize the extent and costs of their medical care. But there
is a crisis upon them. Funding cuts are taking away access to the
complex rehab products and services they rely on,” Gary
Gilberti, NCART president, said.
 
The “All’s NOT Well In Wellsville” video will be
used to educate policymakers regarding access problems that are
negatively impacting people with disabilities, their family members
and the medical professionals who care for them. The video provides
a real-life view of individuals who rely on this equipment and the
supporting services that are required. It also depicts the
challenges they and their medical professionals are facing.
 
According to Don Clayback, NCART executive director, “This
video gives a snapshot of what is happening across the country.
Action needs to be taken to stop this growing negative trend. The
first action must be focused on educating Congress and getting them
to help. A great opportunity for relief is the 2009 health care
reform legislation, where Congress can include a provision to
restore the 9.5 percent cut to complex rehab products and related
accessories that was put in place on Jan. 1, 2009.”
 
The 15-minute video can be viewed at www.ncart‐wellsville.com.
Copies of the video and related talking points can be obtained by
contacting NCART at [email protected].