# Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act

This bill addresses how Medicare pays for artificial limbs, braces, wheelchairs, and other medical devices that help people with disabilities or injuries move and function. Right now, Medicare has strict rules about which companies can supply these devices and how much they'll pay for them. This bill aims to give patients more choice in where they get these devices and make sure they can actually access the ones they need.

The main change is that the bill would allow Medicare beneficiaries to work with any qualified supplier they choose, rather than being limited to a small network of approved providers in their area. Currently, Medicare uses a competitive bidding system that can leave some regions with very few options—sometimes just one or two suppliers. If you need a prosthetic leg or a custom wheelchair, you might be stuck going to whoever won the contract in your area, even if they're far away or don't offer the specific device you need. This bill would open things up so you could go to a supplier you trust or that's more convenient for you.

The bill also focuses on making sure patients get devices that actually work for their individual needs rather than just the cheapest option available. It emphasizes that doctors and patients should have a say in which devices are prescribed, and that Medicare should pay for devices that are medically appropriate rather than automatically choosing the lowest-cost alternative. For people who rely on these devices for mobility and independence, having better access and more personalized options could make a real difference in their quality of life.

Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act

Warner, Mark R.

Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care ActThis bill prohibits payment under Medicare for a prosthesis, custom-fabricated orthosis, or off-the-shelf orthotics that is&nbsp;delivered via a&nbsp;drop shipment (i.e., shipped to an individual who does not have training in how to properly fit or care for the device). It also specifically allows for payment of replacements of custom-fitted devices.