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Do you know that Medicare's "in the home" rule is outdated and restricts coverage of mobility devices to only those needed for certain in-home activities. An individual who requires a mobility device to help them prepare their meals or brush their teeth may receive a device. However, an individual who may be able to move around their home without a mobility device, but requires a device to go to work, school, the grocery store, or anywhere in the community, is not eligible. This restriction unfairly confines many individuals with disabilities to the four walls of their homes and sharply contradicts community-based initiatives such as the Olmstead Supreme Court decision, Ticket-to-Work Program, New Freedom Initiative, and Americans with Disabilities Act.
The Medicare Independent Living Act of 2007 has been introduced. If passed by both the House and the Senate, it will will eliminate the discriminatory "in the home" restriction for individuals with long-term mobility needs.
ACTION REQUESTED: Please call your Representative toll-free via the Capitol switchboard at 1-877-224-0041 and ask that he/she support the Medicare Independent Living Act of 2007.
If you are a local advocate, please contact Deborah Nebel at 216-696-2716 or dnebel@leapinfo.org to learn more about this issue and what you can do to help.
Talking Points-Why this bill is necessary.
- CMS has issued a ruling which would restrict Medicare coverage to only those mobility devices (power wheelchairs, scooters, etc.) that are reasonable and necessary in the patient's home. So if a person with a disability needs a mobility device primarily to go to work, school, or just to leave their home; they will not receive one unless they can show that they need the device to perform their activities of daily living within their home.
- Mobility Devices are covered under Medicare Part B. "In the Home" was originally included in law to distinguish between a person living in the community rather than a hospital or nursing home. Medicare will not pay for a wheelchair when someone is receiving rehab in a hospital or a SNF, or while living long term in a nursing home.
- This new Bill would change the rule to allow Medicare to cover mobility devices for long-term use in "customary settings for the purposes of normal domestic, vocational and community activities." That means for work, school or to leave your home.
- This Bill is consistent with the President's New Freedom Initiative. These devices enable persons with disabilities to participate in society and in their communities. If you use a mobility device, please share your personal story of how this device helps you to be independent
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