Each month "NCART News" delivers the latest Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) Medicare and Medicaid updates, advocacy opportunities, and event information all in one place. |
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NCART staff, Board of Directors, and members wish to honor the life and legacy of Paul Tobin, who passed away on January 18. Paul served as the Chief Executive Officer of the United Spinal Association from 2006-2013. His passion and expertise fueled advocacy efforts that brought meaningful change and we were privileged to work alongside him on a variety of issues impacting individuals with disabilities. We extend our condolences to his family and loved ones. |
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Public Health Emergency Extended Through April |
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The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) has been extended another 90 days. Health and Human Services Secretary Becerra announced the extension on January 11, 2023. The PHE will remain in effect until April 10, 2023. CMS issued guidance on August 18, 2022, entitled “Creating a Roadmap for the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.” CMS is encouraging agencies and healthcare providers to prepare for the end of these flexibilities as soon as possible and to begin moving forward to reestablishing previous health and safety standards and billing practices. |
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Preparing for CMS Decision Memo on Power Seat Elevation |
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The industry eagerly awaits feedback following the public comment period that CMS opened on August 15, 2022 on Medicare coverage for power seat elevation. The ITEM Coalition, NRRTS, NCART, Clinician Task Force, Consumer Groups, RESNA, AA Homecare, and others rallied stakeholders to submit over 3,500 comments to CMS about the value power seat elevation has in the lives of individuals who utilize CRT.
CMS has been reviewing the comments along with information submitted within the application for coverage and is expected to issue a proposed decision memo in February 2023. This will be followed by another 30-day public comment period. A final coverage determination for power seat elevation systems is expected in May. Following that announcement NCART will continue to actively partner with the ITEM Coalition and others to secure coverage, coding, and pricing. NCART is getting ready to issue a call to action for our members. The more quality comments we can submit the better chance we have to get this across the finish line.
Stakeholders have continued to seek clarity from CMS about when the 30-day comment period for power standing systems can be expected. To date, CMS has not offered any additional detail regarding an anticipated timeframe.
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CMS Seeks Comments on Advantage Plans and Prior Authorization |
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NCART will be submitting comments to CMS regarding a proposed rule that intends to make improvements to the prior authorization (PA) process for medical products and services. There are several changes suggested in the proposed rule including requiring more specific denial reasons, prompt responses for urgent requests, and annual public reporting. Any changes implemented would impact Medicaid, CHIP, and Medicare Advantage plans beginning in 2026. Responses are due by March 13 and more information regarding the proposed rule can be found by clicking the button below. |
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NCART is Working for our Members on the State Level |
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Coverage and funding at the state level play a key role in the availability and provision of CRT products and supporting services. NCART offers providers, manufacturers, associations, and policy makers strategic advice and direct advocacy on state issues to protect and improve access to CRT.
When a significant access issue is identified within a state, NCART's Payer Relations Committee and our state workgroups convene to review the problem, identify needed solutions, and implement the necessary advocacy plans. Below is a summary of some of our ongoing work:
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Alaska – An NCART provider workgroup has made requests that include changes to reimbursement and administrative simplification. NCART has provided supporting information to the Department and the most recent meeting was held on 11/30; Department feedback is anticipated in late December.
Connecticut– NCART is working in collaboration with HOMES, US Rehab, and AA Homecare to address Right to Repair legislation that impacts Complex Rehab providers and manufacturers; initial group discussions have been held to determine the implications of the bill and outreach to legislators is being conducted.
Illinois – NCART continues to meet with provider members and our lobbyist to address payment and policy concerns impacting CRT; reimbursement relief is being pursued and information is being compiled for a spring meeting with the Department; discussions with NCART’s state lobbyist are ongoing to finalize a parallel legislative strategy.
Massachusetts – NCART, AA Homecare, and HOMES are working with state lobbyists to introduce legislation that will improve access to service and repair services in the state. The stakeholder workgroup is also speaking to legislators about proposed Wheelchair Warranty legislation that has been introduced in the House and Senate. Discussions are ongoing and legislative outreach continues.
Michigan – CRT state recognition legislation will be reintroduced (previously SB 1209 and SB 1210) in 2023; NCART is communicating with the Michigan Healthcare and Hospice Association and lobbyist on needed next steps.
Montana – NCART is working in collaboration with the Big Sky Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers, VGM, and AA Homecare to address Right to Repair legislation that impacts Complex Rehab providers and manufacturers; A committee hearing was held earlier this month and testimony expressing concerns with the current language was given by local CRT providers; The bill has been tabled in committee and we will continue to monitor any progress.
Washington – NCART and other industry stakeholders including AA Homecare and VGM are supporting the Pacific Association of Medical Equipment Services (PAMES) in advocating for support and passage of legislation (S.5218) that would exempt Complex Rehab Technology from state sales tax; the bill is expected to be introduced by 1/6/23 and additional grassroots action will be coordinated. Special thanks to Don Whitney of Inland Medical & Rehab for his efforts in getting this legislation introduced.
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NCART now has a physical presence in Washington DC. Wayne Grau, Executive Director, has opened an office based in the Navy Yard - just minutes from Capitol Hill, other advocacy organizations, and federal agencies. The new location will allow NCART to strengthen relationships and further establish our presence on the Hill. We will continue to consistently educate and guide legislative offices toward developing positive legislation that supports individuals utilizing Complex Rehab products. |
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NCART Welcomes Two New Manufacturers |
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We are proud to announce the addition of two more manufacturer members, Nymbl Systems and Tolt Technologies, LLC.
Nymbl Systems is a 100% Cloud-Based O&P Electronic Medical Records and Practice Management System that has been supporting providers with streamlined solutions since 2018. Their software offers simple but powerful options to meet the needs of healthcare businesses.
Tolt Technologies manufactures drive control options that enable individuals to drive a powered wheelchair using eye gaze technology. They’ve been partnering with CRT providers since 2020 to enhance the independence of individuals who utilize power mobility.
We couldn’t be prouder to be working alongside each and every one of our member companies to protect access to CRT and want to continue to expand our advocacy reach.
The financial support of dedicated CRT providers and manufacturers is the foundation that enables NCART to carry out our important advocacy work.
If your company provides or manufactures CRT and you aren’t yet an NCART member, please consider joining other dedicated CRT companies to help fight the negative trends in coverage and payment. Learn more by clicking the button below.
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International Seating Symposium 2023 |
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The International Seating Symposium (ISS) is the world's leading educational conference and exhibition on the topic of Wheelchair Seating, Mobility, and Associated Assistive Technologies. Attendees include clinicians, consumers, advocates, researchers, providers, manufacturers, and policymakers from over 30 nations.
The ISS is being held as an in-person event April 13-15, 2023 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. NCART will be there in booth #229. Click below to visit the ISS website and get registered today!
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2023 CRT Industry Webinars |
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"It was both mentally and physically the most challenging thing that I've ever done, and that includes giving birth to three children,” said adaptive athlete Erika Bogan, of climbing Africa's Mt. Kilimanjaro. She and a team of 6 others reached the mountain's peak 19,341 feet above sea level in 2022 to raise awareness about access to mental wellness resources for individuals with disabilities. The team climbed to the top of the mountain in only 5 days. To read more about their trek and the motivation that fueled it, click below! |
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NCART | info@ncart.us |585-784-0208 | www.ncart.us |
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