home

CMS Opens Request to Expand Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation Systems in Power Wheelchairs

Members & Publications

August 19, 2022

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) opened a National Coverage Analysis (NCA) for coverage of power seat elevation systems in power wheelchairs. This review comes after more than three years of concerted efforts by individuals and organizations across the Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition, of which AAPM&R is a member.

The Coalition’s Request for Reconsideration of the National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Mobility Assistive Equipment now has a formal tracking sheet, and CMS will be accepting public comments through Wednesday, September 14. The full link to the CMS Tracking Sheet and public comment portal can be found here.

CMS is only considering the evidence for seat elevation systems at this time, unfortunately, and will be considering standing systems with a separate comment period at some point in the future. The Coalition is grateful for the opportunity to further express our support for coverage of seat elevation systems, though seriously concerned that CMS is further delaying consideration of standing systems. We will continue to press for an expeditious opening of an NCA for standing through our advocacy with Congress and the Administration. 

 

Legislation Introduced to Alleviate Impact of Conversion Factor Cut for 2021

Nov 09, 2020

Last month, two bills were introduced in the House proposing solutions to the estimated 10.6% Physician Fee Schedule conversion factor cut expected to go into effect January 1, 2021.  The bills offer some relief to the cut, but do not reflect a comprehensive or long-term solution.  AAPM&R has therefore chosen to remain neutral regarding these bills. 

Your Academy continues to advocate for a permanent solution to the conversion factor cut while maintaining the important payment increases to office and outpatient evaluation and management services.

 

 

 

 

 

Back to Top