Complex rehab update: What is the delay?

WASHINGTON – Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., and Rep. Jim Langevin, R-R.I., each had calls with CMS officials this month to stress the need for the agency to take the next step in reconsidering the national coverage determination for mobility assistive equipment to include seat elevation and standing systems. 

Last fall, Duckworth and Langevin orchestrated letters in the Senate and House, respectively, asking CMS to seek public comment on the ITEM Coalition’s request to reconsider the NCD for MAE for seat elevation and standing systems that are embedded in power wheelchairs. 

“(They) stressed the need for action and to figure out what the delay is all about and how quickly CMS can move to the next step,” said Don Clayback, executive director of NCRT. 

The ITEM Coalition made the request to reconsider the NCD in September 2020. 

Mark your calendars 

NCART and NRRTS have set Sept. 14 as the date for this year’s Virtual CRT Congressional Fly-in. Clayback says there will be a few in-person meetings with congressional offices this year, but the bulk of the activity will take place remotely.  

“There is one change: There will be no charge to attend or participate,” he said. “We’re trying to eliminate any barrier (to participation).” 

NCART has also set Aug. 15-19 as the dates for this year’s National CRT Awareness Week; and NRRTS has set July 27 as the date for its annual open meeting and, because it’s celebrating 30 years, a “birthday bash.” 

Develop new Focus 

NRRTS has released its first issue of Focus, a new publication dedicated to pediatric power and early intervention, the brainchild of Weesie Walker, executive director of NRRTS, and Michelle Lange, continuing education curriculum coordinator for the organization. 

“It’s a resource for clinicians, suppliers, manufacturers, and parents of children (who want) to know more,” Walker said. 

The 48-page issue includes articles on research, personal stories, and documentation and funding.