House Passes Bill to Increase Medical Equipment Access

DENVER—The Colorado House of Democrats recently passed legislation that aims to streamline access to durable medical equipment (DME) and create guidelines for the legalization of medical psilocybin, the Colorado House of Democrats reported on their website.

HB25-1016, which passed by a House vote of 45-17, would allow occupational therapists to prescribe DME like ventilators and wheelchairs without requiring a prescription from a licensed physician leading, as well as increase access to medical care and treatment.

“Occupational therapists know what care their patients need, but current Colorado law doesn’t allow them to prescribe critical medical equipment to their patients,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango and sponsor of HB25-1016. “When it comes to equipment like wheelchairs, oxygen tanks and monitors, lack of access impacts the health of Coloradans—especially for rural Coloradans with more limited access to health care providers. This bill would remove barriers to care by allowing occupational therapists to prescribe durable medical equipment to address their patients’ needs, streamlining access to care so Coloradans can receive the care needed to keep them safe and healthy.”