1. United States
2. Ind.
3. Letter

I am writing to ask for your support for legislation to improve access to titanium and carbon fiber wheelchairs for Medicare beneficiaries. Currently, Medicare beneficiaries’ financial burden is increased significantly by having to pay in full for the wheelchair, cost of upgrades, and any related wheelchair accessories while waiting for CMS to reimburse the allowable less co-pay. S. 5154 and H.R. 5371 would make it easier for wheelchair users to purchase an upgraded wheelchair and pay for the cost differential themselves, along with their 20% Medicare co-pay for the base model. Carbon fiber and titanium wheelchairs are a stronger, lighter material than standard aluminum lightweight wheelchairs covered by Medicare. Their lighter weight makes it easier for end users to transport their equipment, such as putting the wheelchair in a vehicle and also prevents excessive strain and shoulder breakdown when self-propelling. This legislation does not incur any additional costs for the Medicare program. It just removes the up-front costs for individuals who choose a wheelchair with these upgrades, and also streamlines the acquisition process for consumers and mobility suppliers. The bills will also make it easier for patients covered under other insurance plans who follow Medicare guidelines to choose upgraded wheelchairs. Please co-sponsor and support S. 5154 or H.R. 5371, as applicable, and work to these bills enacted or incorporated into another legislative package before the end of the 118th Congress.