Legislation Wants to Strengthen Wheelchair Access

WASHINGTON—Legislation was introduced Sept. 8 in the House of Representatives aims to increase patient access to a broader selection of wheelchairs. HR 5371, introduced by Rep. John Joyce (R-PA), allows for code upgrades for titanium and carbon fiber wheelchairs under Medicare.

“Stronger patient access to lightweight carbon fiber and titanium wheelchairs will allow more individuals with mobility challenges to function independently and take part in their communities,” said Tom Ryan, American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) president and CEO. “Working to build support for this measure has been a priority for our Association and other mobility stakeholders.

“We appreciate Congressman Joyce introducing this legislation, and Congresswoman Michelle Steel (R-CA) for joining it as an original co-sponsor,” Ryan said, “in advance of our virtual legislative conference later this month, giving our advocates a chance to build support for the bill.”

The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives then referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce as well as the Committee on Ways and Means.

According to AAHomecare, in addition to enabling a choice of product that’s best suited for a wheelchair user’s medical, functional and lifestyle needs, the new bill also aims to remove financial barriers that have prevented some Medicare beneficiaries from being able to benefit from titanium/carbon fiber mobility products.

AAHomecare urges members of Congress to co-sponsor the bill. More details on the legislation and the related benefits and beneficiary cost savings provided by AAHomecare, can be found here: Support H.R. 5371 — Legislation to Allow Upgrades Within a Code for Carbon Fiber and Titanium Wheelchairs Empowers Patient Choice and Access.