Medicare Acquisition Rates

Posted on March 28, 2017

Medicare Acquisition Rates

To amend title XVII of the Social Security Act to provide for the non-application of Medicare competitive acquisition rates to complex rehabilitative wheelchairs and accessories.

Synopsis:

S. 486 would prohibit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) from applying competitive bidding-based rates for reimbursement of complex rehabilitation technology (CRT). Currently the CURES Act delays the application of those rates on CRT until July 1, 2017, but this bill aims to permanently ensure this prohibition. The bill’s backers contend funding from reimbursements currently allows suppliers to provide these specialized devices that are necessary for recipients to stay in their homes.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey
S. 486 lead sponsor

Supporters:

Sens. Robert Casey (D-Pa.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio); Reps. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.), John Larson (D-Conn.); AAHomecare, the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology.