The Medicare program currently denies coverage for seat elevation and standing systems in power wheelchairs. This means that Medicare beneficiaries with mobility impairments are forced to go without medically necessary wheelchair technology if they are not able to afford the costs out of pocket. The Medicare program is currently reviewing a request to provide coverage for these critical systems, known as a "National Coverage Determination" or "NCD Request."

If successful, Medicare will recognize for the first time that these systems are "primarily medical in nature," and, therefore, covered durable medical equipment benefits - not convenience or luxury items for wheelchair users. These systems help wheelchair users carry out important daily activities more independently, such as cooking, eating, and toileting. They also provide numerous health benefits, such as decreased risk of falls or injuries when moving in and out of wheelchairs, improved heart and lung functions, increased bone strength, and improved joint mobility, bladder function, and muscle strength. 

Medicare has denied access to these technologies for far too long. Sign your name below to request that Medicare provide coverage for seat elevation and standing systems and allow Medicare beneficiaries with mobility disabilities access to the care they need!  

For more information and to find out how you can help further this cause, please visit www.rise4access.org.