as many of you know, i work extensively with durable medical equipment
for the poor and un[under]insured

there is a VERY important issue coming up that could use a push from
everyone:

The Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP) is a
national, member-based organization, comprised of state Assistive
Technology Act Programs funded under the Assistive Technology Act (AT
Act).

ATAP has received a request from the ITEM Coalition FOR IMMEDIATE
ACTION.

http://www.ataporg.org
[The mission of the ITEM Coalition (Independence Through Enhancement of
Medicare and Medicaid) is to raise awareness and build support for
policies that will improve access to assistive devices, technologies and
services for people of all ages with disabilities and chronic
conditions.]

Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Jim Ramstad (R-MN) are preparing to
introduce the "Medicare Independent Living Act" . This bill will
eliminate the Medicare restriction for "in the home" use that pertains
to individuals with long term mobility needs.

As many of you are aware, this is an "outdated" restriction on the
coverage of mobility devices. In essence, if a person who has mobility
problems can move around their home without a mobility device, but
requires the device to go to work, school, or anywhere outside the home,
this person is not eligible for a mobility device through Medicare.

In preparation for the introduction of this bill in a few weeks, the
Congressmen have circulated a letter to their colleagues requesting
cosponsorship of the measure. The ITEM Coalition is requesting that you
contact your Representative toll-free using the Capitol switchboard
(1.877.224.0041) and ask he/she to become an original cosponsor of the
Medicare Independent Living Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation
designed to remove Medicare's unfair restriction on "in the home" usage
for mobility devices.

There have been many attempts at removing this restriction in the last
several years. To date none have been successful. You will recall the
most recent attempt last summer when CMS issued new regulations
regarding the procurement and reimbursement of mobility devices. Despite
numerous comments from individuals and organizations around the country
recommending this elimination, CMS chose to take no action in this
matter and left the restriction intact.

If you have any further questions regarding this matter, please contact
the ITEM Coalition directly at 202.349.4260.

http://www.itemcoalition.org/

Thanks

paul