Due to changes in the Medicare coverage/allowable/deniable rules, regulations, and restrictions, Medicare now only allows coverage/payment for:
--electronic wheelchair rechargeable batteries once every 5 years
--wheelchair rubber wheels once every 2 years
--other related wheelchair parts/repairs with similar time restrictions
The above rules/regulations/restrictions for wheelchairs/batteries/parts/repairs are absolutely unreasonable as the operator usage of each wheelchair is highly variable, resulting in unpredictable wear and depletion of the rechargeable batteries/battery lifespan, rubber wheels, and other parts.
For instance, in a recent case of a special needs person, his electric wheelchair's 2 batteries no longer recharged after 1.5 years usage, plus they were out of warranty, and Medicare would not cover/pay for a new set of batteries due to the present 5 year time line restriction. Imagine how shocked he and his caregiver were after being informed that due to Medicare's restrictions he would need to pay over $600.00 for 2 new wheelchair batteries, especially so since over previous years Medicare did cover/pay on his wheelchair batteries. He is unable to work and his spouse is his full-time caregiver.
Please sign this petition to request the U.S. President, Senate, Congress, HHS, and Medicare to change the insane wheelchair rules/regulations/restrictions and allow coverage/payment as needed for wheelchair batteries/parts/repairs which are necessary for wheelchair users to maintain their mobility. Thank You!
