Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at enhancing access to orthotics and prosthetics for seniors in Medicare. The proposed legislation, known as the “Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act,” seeks to address issues related to fraud, expand access to necessary care, and ultimately save significant resources within the Medicare program.

In a statement, Senator Daines highlighted the importance of the bill, stating, "Many Montana seniors rely on orthopedic braces or prosthetics but unfortunately the potential for abuse within Medicare can stand in the way of quality care. I’m glad to introduce this bipartisan bill to expand access to needed orthotics and prosthetics for our seniors and reduce waste and fraud in order to better serve Montana patients.”

The bill specifically aims to improve the quality of care by addressing current practices that may lead to inefficiencies and substandard care. One key aspect of the legislation is the prohibition of the practice of "drop shipment" of custom orthoses and prostheses directly to patients without the involvement of a medical professional. By requiring the expertise of certified professionals in the delivery of such devices, the bill aims to ensure that beneficiaries receive the right devices tailored to their needs, ultimately resulting in savings for the Medicare program.

Furthermore, the legislation seeks to close existing loopholes that prevent Medicare coverage for replacements of orthotics or prosthetics within the reasonable use lifetime, even in cases of irreparable damage or changes in the patient's condition. By addressing these gaps in coverage, the bill aims to provide seniors with the necessary support to maintain their quality of life.

Additionally, the bill includes a regulatory fix that would exempt certified orthotists and prosthetists from restrictive requirements, thereby streamlining the process and eliminating unnecessary barriers to care for patients.

The “Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act” represents a significant step towards enhancing the quality of care for seniors in Medicare, addressing critical issues of access, fraud, and waste within the program.