Accessories and back and seat cushions used with group 3 Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) power wheelchairs will continue to remain exempt from competitive bidding pricing programs for Medicare beneficiaries, according to an announcement from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

The 21st Century Cures Act, which currently allows higher payments for these items, was set to expire after June 30, 2017. This recent policy change extends the provisions in the Cures Act indefinitely, per the American Association for Homecare, in a media release regarding the CMS announcement.

“Today’s announcement marks a big win for home medical equipment providers who furnish CRT products,” says Tom Ryan, president & CEO of the American Association for Homecare, in the release. “CMS’ action ensures that individuals with significant disabilities will continue to have access to specialized technology that they depend on, which will also be welcome news for caregivers and medical professionals who support these individuals.”

³This result would not have been possible without the combined efforts of the HME community and patient advocacy groups working together to both mobilize their constituencies and to directly reach out to Congress and CMS on this issue,” Ryan adds.

CRT is used by those with high levels of disabilities such as ALS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury. Such people require individually configured complex Rehab wheelchairs and related accessories to meet their needs and maximize their function and independence, per the release.

[Source: American Association for Homecare]