People with SCI/D often develop very strong bonds with their “equipment,” because it is so much more than mere nuts and bolts—it is an essential tool for our hard-won independence. Regrettably, access to the tools we need—particularly power wheelchairs and scooters—cannot be taken for granted and this access is currently under assault by ever-more restrictive policies from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Those of you who subscribe to our Action Alerts have received detailed information on the changes in power mobility device (PMD) benefits that the Secretary of HHS plans to implement (PMD is “Medicare-speak” for a power wheelchair or scooter). The bottom line is that these new regulations will severely restrict access to the more technologicallyadvanced power wheelchairs—the types of power chairs required by individuals with long-term disabilities and chronic conditions like SCI/D.
As of this writing, we don’t yet know whether the efforts of United Spinal and other organizations have been successful in putting a stop to, or at least minimizing the effect of, these very harmful policies. What we do know is that these practices must be derailed in the early stages lest they erode the benefits we hold dear. We, as a community, must take a stand and clearly articulate our needs and our rights. We must convince our government officials that getting the right mobility device is fundamental to living independently, being gainfully employed, and fully participating in community life.
Even if you do not need this type of advanced equipment, I urge you to join our fight for the “right wheelchair.” While we all plan to adopt a healthier lifestyle, none of us has a guarantee against developing secondary conditions like shoulder pain, which might require the use of power chairs to maintain our independence. If you don’t want to join for yourself, join for your fellow United Spinal members, for friends, and for family who need—or will need—this essential equipment.
Please join our legislative network. Then communicate, communicate, and communicate—with your legislators, with your neighbors, with anyone who can make a difference. Our rights are not only won, they must be preserved by continual education, involvement, and personal tenacity.
Paul J. Tobin
Executive Director
