RESNA is an interdisciplinary association of people with a common interest in technology and disability. Its purpose is to improve the potential of people with disabilities to achieve their goals through the use of technology.
ITEM is a consumer-led coalition comprised of national and state-based consumer and provider non-profit organizations interested in maintaining and improving access to and coverage of assistive devices,technologies and related services for Americans with Medicare, Medicaid or other health care coverage. The Coalition’s steering committee is taking the lead in coordinating the initial efforts and includes representatives from American Foundation for the Blind, CCD’s Health Task Force, Medicare Rights Center, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the United Spinal Association.
Comprised of 28 members,primarily seating and wheelchair practitioners, whose work involves providing wheelchair seating and mobility services to individuals with disabilities. This task force was formed by clinicians concerned about the current CMS coverage policies for wheeled mobility devices – Soliciting feedback from power mobility providers on concerns with LCD and will provide feedback to CMS.
AAH advocates on behalf of the
entire homecare community. AAH is dedicated to advancing the value and practice of quality cost effective health care services where patients prefer them- at home.
Technology industry ensuring adequate consumer access to appropriate technology and services.
NRRTS is committed to raising
the standard for their profession,
representing more than 800 registered suppliers that meet the strict professionalism registration requirements and agree to the NRRTS Code of Ethics, and Standards of Practices.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is preparing to move to the Lowest Bid Suppliers for complex wheelchairs







If this exemption bill is not passed, these are some the people who will be negatively impacted:





Chris has Muscular Dystrophy. His wheelchair allows him to position himself in ways that aid in the ease of breathing. Chris’s wheelchair was modified to accommodate his breathing ventilator. Under Competitive Bidding it would be unlikely that Chris would have the configuration and service required to keep him mobile and independent.






Kenny was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 30 when he was already a father of two. ALS is extremely progressive and accommodations to the wheelchair need to be made often so Kenny can remain mobile. Under competitive bidding, Kenny would be bedridden for days awaiting such alterations.




Maggie has Muscular Dystrophy. Although the disease has caused her body to weaken over the years, her wheelchair allows her to be active by doing her own grocery shopping and living at home without a full-time caregiver. Competitive bidding does not allow for such customizations and would not allow her to live the life she currently leads.



Complex Rehab involves the wheelchairs and seating systems
that are used by individuals with:

Cerebal Palsy
Spinal Cord Injury
Stroke
ALS
Spina Bifida
Multiple Sclerosis
Muscular Dystrophy
Traumatic Brain Injury