Stakeholders ‘set tone’ for complex rehab technology priorities

WASHINGTON – Complex rehab technology (CRT) stakeholders focused on strengthening relationships with lawmakers and staffers during the September CRT Fly-In, positioning themselves to advance key legislative priorities when the timing is right. 

While stakeholders came prepared with a few specific “asks,” the meetings were equally about laying the groundwork for future advocacy and discussing broader industry challenges, including repair reform.  

“Some of the meetings were more about setting the tone for what’s coming later,” said Tyler Mahncke, senior vice president of clinical mobility and accessibility for VGM & Associates, who oversees U.S. Rehab and Live at Home. “So, when we knock on their door with an actual ask, the tone has been set.” 

Stakeholders, including providers, manufacturers and consumers, participated in 70 meetings on Sept. 17, according to Wayne Grau, executive director of NCART. They met with lawmakers or high-level staffers – a sign CRT is “climbing up the food chain” of importance, he says. 

Repair reform and right-to-repair 

A key topic of discussion was the need for repair reform. Stakeholders shared that they are working with consumers on new legislation to improve access to repairs. While right-to-repair laws are gaining traction in several states – allowing consumers to purchase parts directly from manufacturers and fix their own equipment – CRT advocates argue that deeper systemic changes are needed. 

They say access issues are better addressed through increased reimbursement, reduced paperwork and other policy measures. 

“The language will be coming and (we wanted to let them know) we’ll be in touch once that’s introduced,” said Andrea Madsen, executive director of iNRRTS. 

Competitive bidding and accreditation concerns 

Stakeholders also raised concerns about competitive bidding and accreditation proposals. Although CRT is currently exempt from the bid program, many providers also supply products that could be affected in future rounds, such as ostomy supplies. Additionally, a proposed annual re-accreditation requirement could impact all providers. 

“The discussion around these is that they will prevent fraud and abuse, and we all know that’s not necessarily what they do,” Mahncke said. “We talked about what we’re really trying to solve and how we can be part of the solution. The health legislative aids were well versed in that.” 

Legislative asks: Coverage, flexibility and access 

Issues with “asks” that were discussed during meetings: 

• Pressuring CMS to take the next step in securing coverage for power standing devices 
• Supporting legislation to extend telehealth flexibilities 
• Advancing legislation to improve access to titanium and carbon fiber ultralight manual wheelchairs 

But here, too, timing may play a part in the industry’s ability to cross the finish line, stakeholders say. 

“The titanium bill has support; it makes sense,” Grau said. “But sometimes it’s just all about the timing and it’s been a little crazy in D.C.”