Lifeward — manufacturer of the ReWalk — has partnered with Ottobock Care in a six-month pilot program designed to “enable greater patient access to the ReWalk 7 personal exoskeleton.”
In an Aug. 5 announcement, Lifeward said it will work with Ottobock Care’s nationwide network of orthopaedic care clinics “to increase awareness of ReWalk 7 among rehabilitation hospitals and spinal cord injury centers, develop regional clinical and reimbursement expertise, and build sustainable local support for patient evaluation, training and follow-up.”
Ottobock Care has approximately 50 U.S.-based clinics staffed by certified prosthetist-orthotists, clinical liaisons, patient care coordinators and technical specialists. Ottobock Care also lists locations in Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa and Australia.
“Working with Ottobock Care represents an important step in our strategy to make ReWalk available to more people through highly experienced patient care organizations,” said Mark Grant, president and CEO of Lifeward. “Ottobock Care brings the clinical expertise, regional presence and patient support capabilities needed to accelerate access across the U.S. This pilot is designed to establish a scalable model that could lead to broader national distribution.”
“For more than 100 years, the Ottobock family of companies has been committed to helping people achieve greater mobility and independence through innovative technology and exceptional patient care,” said Kevin Heidenreich, head of patient services for Ottobock Care. “ReWalk 7 is a compelling addition to the advanced mobility solutions we provide our patients. This pilot gives us the opportunity to deliver cutting-edge technologies alongside exceptional clinical care to promote neuromobility access to more people across the country.”
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced Medicare coverage for personal exoskeletons in April 2024.
