NCART, US Rehab, iNRRTS lead CRT advocates on Capitol Hill
Complex Rehab Technology advocates descended on Washington, D.C., and Capitol Hill the week of September 15 to discuss legislative and regulatory issues for CRT manufacturers, suppliers and consumers. The group held 70 congressional meetings, with most involving members of the Committees of Jurisdiction. COJ senators and representatives oversee Medicare and health care bills. The attendee numbers exceeded those of last year, and we had a good mix of manufacturers, providers and consumers.
The attendees discussed repair reform, power standing, the manual wheelchair titanium and composite upgrade bills, telehealth and competitive bidding. Those in the legislative offices were interested in understanding how these issues affected their constituents and how they could best assist. The CRT industry is small but highly impactful; however, we must continue to educate legislators so that they do not forget the value we bring to consumers who utilize CRT equipment.
We look forward to a bigger and better event in 2026!! Stay tuned.
CMS meeting sets the stage for further power standing discussions
Complex Rehab Technology industry representatives held a meeting with Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services leaders to discuss the opening of the National Coverage Determination for power standing. Power Standing remains one of the top priorities for NCART and our members. The ITEM Coalition secured the meeting and invited NCART, providers, manufacturers, clinicians and consumers who utilize this incredible product to share their story. The CMS attendee has a history of working with power wheelchairs and asked a lot of great questions. The most compelling argument for coverage of power standing came from the consumers, who described how power standing allows them to live their very active lives.
CMS stated they have had a backlog of National Coverage Determination requests (not just for CRT) and are working through a reduction in force due to voluntary retirements from federal workers; however, they are filling some of the positions. The conversation was candid, and the group felt that we now have a path forward. We will be setting up meetings to bring the new CMS staff up to date with our medical evidence of the benefit of power standing. We look forward to engaging with CMS to secure coverage for consumers.
Tour supports the value of CRT Suppliers
NCART and U.S. Rehab attended a tour hosted by Metrocare in Fort Worth, Texas, with Energy and Commerce Committee member Rep. Marc Veasey, D-TX. He not only toured the facility but also assisted in the delivery and adjustment of a Group 3 power chair to a consumer. He was very interested in learning more about the equipment and repair process for his constituents. Afterward, we discussed some of the issues that create access obstacles for consumers who require Complex Rehab Technology equipment.
These types of interactions with members of Congress, both on the state and federal levels, are incredibly impactful and memorable. We are facing several challenges from competitive bidding to unknown Medicaid changes at the state level. NCART encourages all providers to reach out to your congressional delegation and invite them to come by and learn more about your business and the incredible services you offer their constituents. NCART will assist if you are interested in hosting a state or federal congressional tour; please contact me.
Thank you to the Legislative Fly-In organizers
I would like to thank iNRRTS and U.S. Rehab for collaborating with NCART to organize a successful Washington, D.C., Legislative Fly-In this past month. This is an excellent example of how, when we all work together, we can achieve great things. We learned this lesson when the industry came together to address seat elevation.
Advocacy Quote
“I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side, be an advocate for myself and others like me.” — Maya Angelou
Wayne may be reached at wgrau@ncart.us.
Wayne Grau is the executive director of NCART. His career in the CRT industry spans more than 30 years and includes working in Rehab Industry Affairs and began working exclusively with Complex Rehab companies. Grau graduated from Baylor University with an MBA in healthcare. He’s excited to be working exclusively with CRT manufacturers, providers, and the individuals we serve who use CRT equipment.