CMS exempts accessories from bid pricing – for good

WASHINGTON – CMS in a final rule issued today says it will permanently stop applying competitive bidding pricing to accessories for complex rehab manual wheelchairs, NCART has reported.

In late June, CMS agreed to extend an 18-month pause on applying bid pricing to these accessories for an additional 90 days, until Oct. 1., to give the agency more time to review the industry’s request.

“We are sincerely grateful to CMS for making today’s policy decision and protecting access for people with disabilities who depend on these individually configured CRT wheelchairs and seating systems,” said Don Clayback, executive director of NCART, in an email bulletin. “This outcome was the result of several years of collaborative advocacy within the CRT community to ensure these damaging cuts did not go into effect.”

NCART thanked, specifically, Reps. John Larson, D-Conn., and Lee Zeldin, R-N.Y., and Sens. Bob Casey, D-Pa., and Rob Portman, R-Ohio, for their ongoing support. In June, Larson drafted a letter and collected signatures from 18 members of the House of Representatives, as well as Casey, asking CMS to extend the 18-month pause that was due to expire on July 1.

NCART also thanked all the consumer, clinician, provider and manufacturer representatives and national organizations for pushing for a permanent change. Consumer and clinical groups that supported the effort included the ITEM Coalition, United Spinal Association, Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, ALS Foundation, Spina Bifida Association, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Center for Medicare Advocacy, the Clinician Task Force and others. Provider and manufacturer groups included NRRTS, U.S. Rehab, AAHomecare and RESNA.

“We appreciate everyone’s commitment to protecting access and look forward to working together to make continued progress for people who depend on CRT,” Clayback said.