Wheel World News Issue 15 December | Page 14

Complex Rehab Technology includes medically necessary and individually configured manual and power wheelchairs, seating and positioning systems, and other adaptive equipment such as standing devices and gait trainers.

Medicare is planning to cut funding on January 1, 2017 for specialized wheelchair systems needed by people with complex disabilities such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis (MS) and muscular dystrophy.

•This small population of people rely on these specialized wheelchairs and essential components—coined “accessories”— to maximize their function and independence and to minimize their healthcare treatments and cost.

•Accessories include such critical items as pressure relieving cushions, head support systems, positioning devices, sip and puff interfaces, and tilt-and-recline systems.

•There is legislation in Congress, H.R 3229 and S. 2196, with strong bipartisan support that will prevent these funding cuts and thereby protect access for the people who rely on this specialized equipment each day. Congress must take action now to stop these Medicare cuts.

Watch the video and see why this funding is such an important part of our life and care. http://www.access2crt.org/

Please go here and voice your Concern: http://www.cqrcengage.com/access2crt/mobility

Help Stop Medicare Cuts to Complex Rehab Technology Critical to People with Disabilities

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