What's New At DRS - Mobility device restriction legislation introduced

Back to "What's New" Main Page

Legislation introduced in the House to revise Medicare decision on mobility devices (6-13-07)

Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Jim Ramstad (R-MN) have introduced legislation in the House of Representatives that would fix Medicare's "in the home" restriction on mobility devices.

According to an action alert recently released by Justice For All, "Currently, Medicare will only cover a mobility device if an individual needs it for use inside their homes. In other words, if an individual is able to do without a wheelchair or scooter inside, but needs such a device to go to work, school, the grocery store, their place of worship, the pharmacy or their physician's office, Medicare will NOT pay for it. The "in the home" rule severely restricts the independence of people with disabilities by limiting their ability to participate in their communities."

Please contact the ITEM Coalition at 202-349-4260 with any questions and visit the ITEM Coalition website at www.itemcoalition.org for more information on the proposed legislation and instructions on how to contact your representatives to let them know about your stance on this bill.