Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) introduced new legislation to improve Medicare beneficiaries' access to titanium and carbon fiber wheelchairs.

The Choices for Mobility Act (S 247) follows titanium and carbon fiber legislation that was introduced in the previous Congress (S 5154) by creating two new HCPCS codes for complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) manual wheelchairs and allowing for upgrades within a code. Additionally, the legislation would allow people to choose wheelchairs that are best suited for their medical, functional and lifestyle needs and preferences without increasing costs to the Medicare program.

In late 2024, Sens. Blackburn and Duckworth introduced S 5154, the Choices for Increased Mobility Act, which would have allowed Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to lighter, more functional wheelchairs and only pay the difference—currently, they need to pay the full cost of the ultralight chairs and then seek partial reimbursement.

S 247 would clarify payment rules for manual CRT wheelchairs, building upon the Senators’ previous work.

In a member newsletter, the American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) said reaching out to Senators to request they co-sponsor and support S 247 could positively influence the chance of passing the legislation. AAHomecare has compiled guidelines for messaging and reaching out to Capitol Hill here.