NCART and NRRTS are thanking participants who made the 2023 Virtual Congressional Fly-in and the CRT Product Expo “a great success.”
In a Sept. 20 bulletin, the organizations said the Sept. 13 Fly-In — held via videoconference — resulted in more than 220 Congressional meetings, with delegates representing 40 states.
The following day, Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) representatives from throughout the industry met in the Cannon Caucus Room to provide face-to-face demonstrations for Members of Congress, Senators, and their staffs.
“We provided education and insight to policy influencers and communicated the need for support to enhance and ensure access to CRT for individuals with disabilities,” the bulletin said. “Now is the time to keep this great momentum going, and we are here to help you do that.”
NCART and NRRTS are asking Fly-In participants to reach out to Congressional offices during the next few weeks to follow up on the “asks” discussed on Sept. 13. Those talking points were consideration for Medicare coverage of power standing; H.R. 5371, which would create a mechanism for Medicare beneficiaries to pay out of pocket to upgrade an ultralightweight wheelchair frame to titanium or carbon fiber; and the need to strengthen the CRT provider network, including by reforming CRT repair policies and funding.
“Remember that CRT advocacy is a marathon, not a sprint,” the bulletin said. “Positive outcomes require consistent outreach. The investment you made last week is part of an important relationship you can continue to strengthen over time with your Members of Congress and their staff. Our community will need those types of connections as we continue to pursue meaningful change.”
