The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made a groundbreaking announcement that significantly impacts the mobility of individuals requiring power wheelchairs, specifically concerning the functionality of seat elevation. Effective from April 2024, CMS will recognize seat elevation systems in power wheelchairs as medically necessary, a move that is pivotal for healthcare professionals, especially occupational therapists, who advocate for enhanced mobility aids to support their clients' daily living activities and independence. The CMS's update reflects an acknowledgment of the necessity and value of seat elevation technology, paving the way for better accessibility and coverage for users who require these essential features for their daily mobility and independence.
For a detailed overview of this announcement and its implications, you can read the full article on Mobility Management's website here: https://mobilitymgmt.com/cms-issues-final-coding-benefit-category-payment-determinations-for-seat-elevation/
Seat elevation is more than a convenience; it's a critical component for engaging in various activities at eye level, facilitating social interactions, and performing tasks that would otherwise be out of reach. For occupational therapists, this advancement means they can now more effectively include these systems in their clients' mobility solutions.
Cheelcare's power wheelchair Curio, with its innovative adjustable height feature, stands at the forefront of benefiting from this CMS update. Curio's design allows for elevation adjustments which significantly enhances the quality of life for users by providing greater independence, reducing the risk of injuries related to transfers, and aiding in the prevention of pressure injuries through better seating positioning. Curio features an industry-leading elevation of over 20 inches - allowing for a seat-to-floor adjustment from 12 inches to 32 inches. This adjustable height makes it easier for end-users to adapt to surfaces of various heights, whether that's picking something up off the floor, accessing a cupboard, or transfering to a toilet or chair of a diferent height.
By incorporating feedback from occupational therapists and aligning with coding and payment determinations, Cheelcare is committed to offering mobility solutions that cater to the real-world needs of users. This decision by CMS is a step forward in recognizing the importance of advanced mobility aids and their role in supporting the health and well-being of individuals with mobility challenges.
Curio is available in Canada, and soon in the United States.