Date: Monday, May 14, 2012
Category: General

H.R. 4378 "Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2012" was introduced on April 18, 2012 in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman
Joseph Crowley (D-NY).  H.R. 4378 would create a separate benefit category under Medicare for complex rehabilitation technology (CRT), which includes products such as complex rehabilitation power wheelchairs, highly configurable manual wheelchairs, adaptive seating and positioning systems, and other specialized equipment. RESNA board member Gerry Dickerson was instrumental in helping to get Representative Crowley to introduce the bill. 

CRT items are used by people with significant disabilities and require a broader range of services and specialized personnel than what is required for standard durable medical equipment (DME). A separate benefit category allows for unique coding, coverage, and payment rules and policies that address the unique situations of this subset of durable medical equipment. 

Now comes the equally difficult part of getting support and moving forward the legislation. RESNA is a member of the SBC (Separate Benefit Category) Steering Committee, along with NRRTS, NCART, United Spinal Association, AA Homecare and the Clinical Task Force.  The SBC Committee is conducting an informational webinar for advocates, "Getting Behind HR 4378 - the Complex Rehab Separate Benefit Category Legislation" on Thursday, May 24 at 11:30AM ET and again at 4:30PM ET. The presentation will review the legislation, discuss advocacy steps and tools, and allow for questions and discussion.

There is no cost, but pre-registration is required.  To register, please use the following:

May 24, 2012 - 11:30am ET Webinar

Register at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/624379458

May 24, 2012 - 4:30pm ET Webinar

Register at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/601974754

If you have questions are desire additional information please call (719) 738-5220.