The Parkinson’s Action Network (PAN) supports the passage of S. 2931, the Medicare Access to Complex Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Act of 2008. S. 2931, introduced by Parkinson’s Caucus Co-Chair Debbie Stabenow, will ensure that individuals living with Parkinson’s and other diseases will have access to necessary medical equipment through Medicare. Access to complex rehabilitation and assistive technology products will allow people battling Parkinson’s disease to live in their own homes as long as possible.
To learn more about S. 2931 and to read PAN’s letter of support to Senator Debbie Stabenow, please read below.
May 1, 2008
The Honorable Debbie A. Stabenow
133 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator Stabenow:
On behalf of the Parkinson’s community, the Parkinson’s Action Network (PAN) is pleased to support your legislation, the Medicare Access to Complex Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Act of 2008, S. 2931. As the Co-Chair of the Caucus on Parkinson’s Disease, PAN appreciates your efforts to ensure that people living with the disabilities inherent in Parkinson’s and other diseases will have access to needed medical equipment through Medicare. As you know, assuring access to complex rehabilitation and assistive technology will allow millions of Americans living with disabilities to lead more independent and productive lives.
As you know, Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative movement disorder that causes people living with the disease to require specialized equipment and services as the disease progresses. Without such equipment, people with Parkinson’s disease are faced with significant barriers to independent living much earlier than necessary.
Your legislation will exempt complex rehabilitation and assistive technology products from the Medicare competitive bidding program. PAN supports this exemption, which will allow beneficiaries to have access to the services and equipment they need to live independently. Medicare spending issues must be addressed, but such cost savings should not come at the expense of restricting access to the products and services necessary for disabled Americans.
As always, the Parkinson's community appreciates your efforts to help ease the burden and find a cure for Parkinson's disease. If you or your staff would like to discuss this matter further, please do not hesitate to contact me or Mary McGuire Richards, Deputy CEO, at (202)-638-4101.
Sincerely,
Amy Comstock Rick
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