Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Tammy Duckworth have introduced the Choices for Increased Mobility Act, aiming to enhance access to advanced wheelchairs for Medicare beneficiaries. The proposed legislation seeks to allow these individuals to upgrade to lighter, more functional wheelchairs without shouldering the entire upfront cost.

Senator Blackburn emphasized the importance of reducing barriers for Americans with disabilities in obtaining necessary mobility equipment. "By making it easier for Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to wheelchairs made with advanced, lighter materials like carbon fiber and titanium, this bipartisan bill would help improve the quality of life for countless individuals," she stated.

Senator Duckworth highlighted the struggle faced by Medicare recipients in accessing more functional wheelchairs that could ease their mobility. "Our bipartisan legislation would help ensure Medicare recipients are better able to access the wheelchairs they need to live healthier, more independent lives—with minimal cost to the federal government," she said.

The Choices for Increased Mobility Act proposes creating two new billing codes for ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs: one for base models and another for those constructed with advanced materials such as titanium or carbon fiber. This initiative aims to restore a previous option that allowed beneficiaries who met medical necessity requirements to pay only the difference between standard and upgraded materials.

This legislative effort has garnered support from various organizations, including the American Association for Homecare and Permobil Americas. Tom Ryan, President & CEO of the American Association for Homecare, expressed gratitude towards Senators Blackburn and Duckworth: “Their work to improve access to lightweight wheelchairs is the latest example of their commitment to ensuring people with mobility challenges can remain actively engaged in their communities.”

Chuck Witkowski, President of Permobil Americas, echoed similar sentiments: “S. 5154 is a common sense, budget neutral solution that empowers individuals with the choice to access many benefits of titanium or carbon fiber wheelchair frames.”

The bill is backed by numerous associations across different states, emphasizing its widespread support within the medical equipment community.