ITEM Coalition presses policymakers to address repair issues 

WASHINGTON – Forty-one members of the ITEM Coalition are calling on policymakers to address a set of policy recommendations to improve access to timely and consistent manual and power wheelchair repairs and maintenance. 

“There is strong support to take steps to solve this problem from all those affected by this problem, including consumers, clinicians, and suppliers,” stated Peter W. Thomas, ITEM Coalition co-coordinator. “In fact, the only resistance to our proposals were from those who felt we needed to go farther in our recommendations to solve this critical problem for people with disabilities.” 

The ITEM Coalition has outlined a series of proposed solutions to help address this pressing issue: 

• Cover and pay for preventative maintenance for CRT manual and power wheelchairs.  
• Require suppliers to repair the devices they provide in a timely manner. 
• Require suppliers to provide appropriate “temporary replacement” chairs that are in good working order while repairs are being made.  
• Reduce delays caused by prior authorization and additional insurance documentation requirements.  
• Alleviate financial burdens on consumers and systemic challenges in supplier reimbursement.  
  • Reimburse suppliers for the time they travel to access a device in a patient’s home, evaluate and diagnose needed repairs, and provide specialized labor to ensure quality service.  
  • Establish clear communication channels for repair options and timelines. These changes would help ensure timely, safe, and efficient repairs for individuals with mobility disabilities. 
• Establish the right of beneficiaries to self-repair their own mobility device. 

Members of the ITEM Coalition include United Spinal Association, Spina Bifida Association, the ALS Association and AAHomecare.