Posts by Elizabeth Creed
Like Cars, Wheelchairs Need Regular Maintenance
Data reveals the value of covering twice-a-year preventive maintenance for CRT equipment For Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) users, a wheelchair breakdown isn’t just an inconvenience. It means that daily life is on hold indefinitely. While most mobility equipment is designed to last five years, many of its key components fail well before that—and the consequences…
Read MoreTaking the Confusion Out of Prior Authorization
Helping you understand when Prior Authorization and other documentation are required for new equipment or repairs Ready for a new wheelchair or need a repair to your mobility equipment? Navigating prior authorization requirements with your health insurance carrier can be one of the most confusing parts of the process. At National Seating & Mobility (NSM),…
Read MoreNavigating CRT for Your Child
New to the world of mobility equipment? Don’t worry! This article will help you navigate your child’s mobility journey with confidence. For a child with mobility issues, Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) equipment can open doors to greater mobility and independence for the entire family. But the process of finding the right mobility solution for your…
Read MoreDid You Know: Preventive Maintenance
Did You Know: Most insurance providers don’t cover preventive maintenance for complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment? While preventive care, such as bi-annual dental exams, preventive screenings and physical exams, is routinely covered by health insurance providers, preventive maintenance for CRT equipment is generally not covered. As a result, many CRT users feel they must wait…
Read MoreA Promise Kept: Jerry Donovan’s Mission to Help Others Thrive
Twenty-five years ago, NSM client Jerry Donovan made a promise—and he’s spent every day since keeping it. Back then, Donovan worked for Boston Gas, fixing gas leaks throughout the city. In 1999, while driving his truck, his blood sugar suddenly dropped, causing a serious accident. The crash left Donovan—a Type 1 diabetic—with a T-6 spinal…
Read MoreDid You Know: Transportation Coverage
Did You Know: Most health insurance carriers don’t cover travel to complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) evaluations and appointments? Most private health insurance carriers and state Medicare or Medicaid programs do not cover transportation to wheelchair evaluation or repair appointments. Coverage that does exist varies widely by state and provider. If CRT appointments are covered under…
Read MoreDid You Know: Prior Authorization
Did You Know: Many health insurance carriers require prior authorization to repair CRT equipment that’s already been approved? Prior authorization is basically asking your health insurance carrier for permission before ordering the parts to complete a repair on CRT equipment that has previously been approved as medically necessary. The process involves submitting several documents and…
Read MoreFive Tips to Help Speed Up the Repair Process
As a CRT user, much of the repair process is outside of your control, but there are things you can do to help the process move as quickly as possible.
Read MoreWhat Are Your Transportation Options for Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT)-Related Appointments?
Pay It Forward: If you can travel to your wheelchair provider’s local branch for an appointment, do so. This can not only facilitate the repair process for your chair, but will help technicians who travel to in-home appointments prioritize CRT users who cannot travel, ensuring everyone gets the help they need as quickly as possible.
Read MoreHow to Prepare for Your Mobility Equipment Assessment
Tips on Communicating Your Needs and Advocating for Yourself at Your CRT Appointment Gearing up for your first evaluation for mobility equipment or want to make the most of your next appointment with your Assistive Technology Professional (ATP)? Consider these tips to help you prepare Be Ready to Communicate Your Mobility Goals As the Complex…
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