• Jeremy Siegers, a power wheelchair user, faced challenges with daily transfers at home.
• NSM designed a custom ceiling lift and track system for safe, independent movement.
• Features include full-room mobility, smooth bathroom transitions and reduced caregiver strain.
• Result: increased independence and easier daily routines for both Jeremy and his caregivers.

How a Ceiling Lift System Transformed Daily Life for Chicago-Area Entrepreneur Jeremy Siegers

For Jeremy Siegers, creativity is part of what makes him tick.

As the owner of Sharp Mill Graphics, a multi-surface branding management company based in the Chicagoland area, he’s used to finding creative solutions for unique challenges. But when it came to navigating his home as a power wheelchair user, Siegers realized he needed a tailored home access solution.

That’s where National Seating & Mobility’s (NSM) Home Access team came in. Learn more about how home accessibility solutions can practically help complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) users like Siegers. 

The Challenge: Daily Transfers with a Hoyer Lift

Like many wheelchair users, Siegers relied on a manual Hoyer lift to transfer between his mobility scooter, bed and other areas of his home. However, as his limb-girdle muscular dystrophy progressed and Siegers transitioned to a power wheelchair, these transfers became increasingly difficult — not just for him, but also for his caregivers.

“I’m 6 foot, 2 inches tall and 200 pounds,” he said. “Having my mom, who is smaller than me, trying to maneuver me around — it got to be too much work for her or whoever was helping me transfer me.” 

Siegers knew he needed a home accessibility solution that would provide independence while also reducing the strain on his parents and other caregivers. 

Partnering With NSM for a Custom Track System

The ceiling lift and track system project began with a simple question. 

“After I moved to my power chair, I was trying to finagle transfers with the Hoyer lift,” Siegers recalled. “I asked my ATP what other people used for transfers and just knew that there had to be other solutions out there.” 

Siegers’ ATP connected Siegers with NSM’s Home Access team, who came to Siegers’ home and walked through his daily routine with him. Together, he and the NSM Home Access team worked to create a custom solution that fits Siegers’ unique needs. 

The result was a custom ceiling track system, a motorized track and lift installed in Siegers’ home that helps him safely transfer between a wheelchair, bed, shower or toilet with minimal caregiver assistance. 

Siegers describes the system as “similar to an engine hoist in an auto body shop.” Key features include:

• X-Y axis movement: The track system allows Siegers to move forward, backward, left or right, unrestricted by a single track
• Custom bathroom carousel: Siegers can rotate completely to access the shower chair and other areas of the bathroom
• Seamless transitions: A gate system allows Siegers’ smooth movement between rooms

The NSM team carefully planned the installation, first evaluating Siegers’ home to ensure it could structurally support the weight of the track system. Then, the team laid out the track, mounted it to ceiling rafters and fine-tuned transitions room-to-room to ensure it worked correctly and fit Siegers’ needs. 

The Impact: Independence and Reduced Caregiver Strain

While Siegers still requires minor assistance to attach to the lift, the system significantly reduces caregiver burden. Now, all his caregivers need to do is help him hook onto the lift — a small task compared to manually lifting him multiple times a day.

“My parents are getting older, and I have a caretaker as well, but the burden [of manually lifting me] got to be too much,” he said. “This system is part of our daily routine and a huge help. I use it every single day, and I don’t know what I’d do without it.

“It’s definitely an investment,” he continued, “but it’s an investment that’s worth it for all parties involved.”

Discover Custom Home Solutions

If you or a loved one is seeking greater independence at home, NSM offers custom home accessibility solutions designed around your life. From ceiling lifts to home modifications, the NSM Home Access team creates solutions that fit your unique mobility needs.

Click here to learn more About Home Access Solutions!

The post Achieving Greater Independence at Home through Home Access Solutions appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

When it comes to your Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) equipment needs, National Seating & Mobility (NSM)  is your trusted partner. But did you know that NSM also provides home accessibility products and services that help you find independence in and around your home? 

From ramps and stairlifts to elevators, lift chairs, bathroom modifications and more, NSM can help ensure your home meets your mobility needs and allows you greater independence. 

Home Accessibility & NSM

NSM’s home accessibility products and services help you easily access and enjoy every space in — and sometimes, outside of — your home. In addition to working with you to create customized mobility solutions, NSM experts can also help make your home, car and yard more accessible. 

NSM provides a variety of home accessibility products at branches in 16 states, with more locations being added, including: 

• Stair lifts
• Wheelchair ramps
• Vehicle lifts
• In-home lifts
• Lift chairs
• Door openers
• Bathroom modifications
• Platform lifts
• Residential elevators

Learn more about our Home Access branches 

How It Works

As your partner in remaining independent in your home, NSM is committed to helping you through the entire process of finding home accessibility solutions that fit your home and your life. Whether you need a stair lift, a ramp or bathroom modifications, NSM’s certified professionals will walk with you through every step of the ordering, authorization and installation process. 

So, how does it work? 

1. Connect with the NSM Home Access team. With 24 locations across the United States, our Home Access team can connect you with certified home access professionals. Call 855-540-4410 to set up your evaluation so we can learn more about your specific needs.
   
2. Participate in an evaluation. A Home Access team member will come to your home to evaluate what products will work best for you, your mobility goals and your life. You’ll receive a quote for the work within 48 hours of the evaluation. For most clients, insurance does not cover home accessibility products or home modifications, so the majority do pay out-of-pocket.
   
3. Get ready for installation. With NSM, you’ll work with a dedicated Home Access team from evaluation to installation — with no sub-contractors. The team will work with you to set a date and time to install your home accessibility products and help you understand how to use them before leaving. The team will also work with you to schedule routine maintenance to ensure your home remains accessible and easy for you to navigate. 

Your Trusted Provider

NSM may already be your trusted CRT provider, but we also offer home access solutions you can depend on. For more than 30 years, we’ve completed more than 250,000 installs, testament to our commitment to helping ensure your home, car and daily life is accessible.

What sets us apart? 

• We stick with you. Our Home Access team members are experienced and know the industry and our products inside out. With an average tenure of nearly 20 years, our team understands the process and the products — and seeks to serve with excellence and compassion.
  
• One team from start to finish. At NSM, we don’t use subcontractors to complete our home access projects and installations, making the process less confusing and more streamlined for our clients.
  
• We live out our values. We’re committed to our HEARTS core values (honor, excellence, accountability, respect, teamwork and service) at NSM and seek to live them out in every job. We want to your trusted home access partner and seek to live out those values with every interaction. We don’t just say we’re the best; we seek to live it out. 

The NSM Advantage

Whether you’re adapting your space for safety, comfort or long-term mobility, our team is dedicated to providing personalized solutions and reliable care you can count on. Whatever your home accessibility needs, NSM is your trusted partner. 

Here’s why: 

• NSM works closely with industry-leading suppliers so that you have access to the best options and latest technologies. 
• NSM offers solutions that fit your needs and your life. At NSM, we have home accessibility options, including handling short- or long-term needs with your choice of purchasing or renting equipment. 
• NSM makes the process easier, with a dedicated home access team, price-matching and financing options to help you find the solution you need as quickly as possible. 

Learn How NSM Can Help You Stay Independent at Home

From ramps to elevators, explore the solutions that make your home more accessible — and your life easier. With more than 30 years of experience and a commitment to our clients, NSM is your trusted home access provider. Learn More!

The post From Evaluation to Installation: How NSM Simplifies Home Accessibility appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

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), we understand the challenges and we want to help make the process a little less frustrating. In this article, we’ll help you understand prior authorization, the documentation requirements that are part of the new equipment or repair process and share helpful tips to make the process as smooth as possible. 

What Is Prior Authorization?

Prior authorization is basically asking your health insurance carrier or plan to agree to pay for new equipment or a repair to your existing equipment BEFORE anything is ordered. Be aware that some insurance carriers may not require prior authorization in some cases, so it’s important to learn what your health insurance carrier requires. 

The prior authorization process involves several steps and types of documentation, including: 

• A prescription for CRT equipment,
• A seating evaluation to determine the best CRT equipment for your needs,
• An equipment estimate that details the cost of the equipment you need, and 
• A Letter of Medical Necessity is a document that explains why specific medical equipment is essential for your health and well-being. 

Once you submit the required documentation to your health insurance carrier, they will review it and either approve or deny the request based on their specific guidelines for coverage. 

Detailing the Prior Authorization Process for New CRT Equipment

Requirement 1: Prescription for CRT Equipment

What It Is: A prescription from your physician stating that you need to be evaluated for a mobility device. You must have a prescription in order to set up a seating evaluation or request a repair. Most health plans require an in-person appointment with your physician that is focused on your mobility needs.

Who’s Responsible: Your doctor

Requirement 2: Seating Evaluation

What It Is: An assessment performed by a physical or occupational therapist or physiatrist and an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) to evaluate your physical and functional needs to help determine the best mobility solutions for your needs and lifestyle. 

Who’s Responsible: Your therapists (physical or occupational) or physiatrist and ATP

Requirement 3: Equipment Quote

What It Is: After your seating evaluation, your CRT equipment supplier will create a detailed list of the recommended equipment and their associated costs.

Who’s Responsible: Your CRT supplier

Requirement 4: Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN)

What It Is: A formal letter or document that justifies your need for the prescribed mobility equipment, explaining how it addresses your specific condition, diagnosis and functional limitations. This is completed after your seating evaluation.

Who’s Responsible: Your physical or occupational therapist or physiatrist

Once the required information has been collected, it will be submitted to your insurance carrier for funding review and approval. Documents usually cannot be submitted independently, so know what your insurance provider requires and keep track of any missing documentation so you can follow up with the appropriate person. 

What About Repairs?

When it comes to repairs, many insurance carriers or health plans also require prior authorization before ordering parts to fix the problem. Other documentation requirements that health insurance carriers commonly require for repairs include: 

• An updated prescription or Statement of Continued Medical Necessity, 
• A repair assessment conducted by your wheelchair supplier, 
• A repair estimate, and 
• Proof of Original Purchase. 

How You Can Help

Prior authorization is a team effort! In most cases, your CRT supplier will collect and submit the required documentation to your insurance carrier, but your CRT supplier needs your help to ensure the process runs smoothly. Seek to understand your health insurance carrier’s prior authorization requirements and find ways to support the process. Here are a few ideas of how you can help. 

• Keep copies of all documentation for your own records. 
• Understand your insurance carrier’s prior authorization requirements for new equipment and repairs so you can anticipate documentation needs. 
• Know who to reach out to if a requirement is missing. Stay in contact with your funding specialist so you can quickly follow up on any missing items. 
• Be proactive. Request that your doctor, health care provider or therapists send information to your wheelchair provider as quickly as possible. As the insured person, follow up with your health insurance carrier once prior authorization has been submitted and ask that the decision be expedited. 
• Be prepared. Communicate with your wheelchair provider quickly if there are any updates or changes to your coverage. If you change insurance carriers during the process, understand that all of your information will have to be gathered and resubmitted to your new health insurance carrier, slowing down the process of getting new equipment or a repair. 

Have more questions about NSM’s service and repair process?

Find the answers in our helpful FAQ.

Take Action

Legislation aimed at removing or limiting prior authorization requirements for certain repairs is currently under consideration in several states. If passed, these reforms could significantly shorten the timeline for completing necessary repairs—often cutting delays from one to four weeks, depending on the insurance provider and their policies—ensuring CRT users maintain their independence and quality of life.

• Follow advocacy organizations like NCART, iNRRTS, AAHomecare and other advocates to stay up-to-date about ongoing efforts and learn what is happening in your state.
• Contact your state, local and federal lawmakers to share your story. This resource can help. 

The post Taking the Confusion Out of Prior Authorization appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

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 child can be a little overwhelming.

But don’t worry! The world of CRT is filled with tools to help your child thrive in and around your home, including car seats, strollers, wheelchairs, gait trainers, standers, and more. This guide will help you navigate your child’s CRT journey with confidence.

Start Early

If you suspect a delay in your child’s mobility of physical development, don’t wait! Talk to your pediatrician about your concerns and ask about a referral for physical or occupational therapy. Taking these steps early on will give you a better understanding of your child’s needs. 

Believe it or not, children as young as one year old can benefit from standers, and some children may begin exploring power mobility shortly after their first birthday. If your child isn’t meeting traditional milestones, like crawling or walking, it’s important to talk with your physician about your concerns as early as possible.

Find the Right Team

If you’re new to the world of CRT, you may not be familiar with the idea of a seating clinic. Seating and mobility clinics are specialized medical services where trained professionals will evaluate your child to determine the most appropriate mobility equipment to fit his or her needs and goals. 

At an established seating and mobility clinic, you’ll have access to occupational and physical therapists who specialize in body positioning, function and mobility as well as Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs) from a CRT supplier who are trained experts on recommending and fitting CRT equipment. You may also have a chance to try out different types of equipment so you can better determine what works best for your child—and fits into your life, home and vehicle. 

Finding the right medical provider and physical therapist is the best place to start when building your child’s mobility care team. These professionals often already have an established relationship with a CRT supplier and can streamline the process by connecting you with a supplier in your area. However, if you live in a small or rural community, consider reaching out directly to a local CRT supplier for guidance. They can often help connect you with appropriate medical professionals in your area.

Partner with Your CRT Supplier

The world of CRT can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make the best decisions for your child. Your CRT supplier is on your team and wants to provide solutions that make life easier for CRT users and their families. You have a shared goal: to help your child live his or her most independent life—and your CRT supplier has experience in providing CRT users with tailored mobility solutions that fit their lifestyles. If a particular mobility solution doesn’t live up to its potential or needs modifications, your CRT supplier is available to work with you and your child to find a solution that works.

Be Patient.

The process to get quality CRT equipment can take time. Here’s a general overview of what to expect. 

1. Referral: Your child’s doctor or therapist confirms your child would benefit from mobility equipment and recommends an evaluation. 
2. Scheduling the evaluation(s). Work with your therapist, CRT supplier or seating clinic to schedule a seating evaluation. 
3. Research recommended equipment: Do your homework after the evaluation to ensure the recommended mobility solution works for your child and fits your life (home, school, vehicle, travel, etc.) 
4. Documentation: While your CRT supplier will gather the needed documentation, you can help by knowing your health insurance carrier’s requirements and working with your provider to ensure documents are collected from different members of your child’s care team—doctor, therapist, you—in a timely manner. Learn more. 
5. Insurance Submission: Your CRT supplier will submit all required documentation to your health plan to obtain prior authorization. It will take time for a decision, sometimes up to 30 days. Additional time may be added if prior authorization is denied or deferred for more information. If there is a partial approval, your CRT supplier will help you determine your out-of-pocket responsibility. 
6. Ordering and Assembly: Once approved, your CRT supplier will order and assemble the CRT equipment for your child. 
7. Delivery and Fitting: Your CRT supplier will deliver the CRT equipment and make sure it fits your child. 
8. Follow Up: Set up a plan with your therapist for growth adjustments every six months to a year. Most pediatric CRT equipment is designed to last 3-5 years, and new equipment may be needed as your child’s needs and goals change as he or she matures. 

Find Your Community

As a parent navigating CRT for your child, you’re not alone! Stay connected to other parents, caregivers and CRT users by attending events like the Abilities Expo and joining online support groups. 

Navigating CRT decisions for your child can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth it so your child can experience his or her greatest levels of mobility and independence. Every child is different, but with early action, expert support and determination, your family can roll confidently into a future full of possibilities. 

The post Navigating CRT for Your Child appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

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 non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) provisions, health insurance carriers often set specific medical necessity requirements that CRT users must meet. In many cases, a healthcare provider must make the request for transportation and provide documentation that it is medically necessary. 

Educate Yourself: To learn more about what’s included or required in your state’s Medicaid program, please reach out to your state’s Department of Health and Human Services or comparable department. Find your state’s department here. If you’re covered by a private insurance carrier or Medicare, reach out to your insurance carrier for more information on what types of transportation may or may not be covered under your plan and the process for using those benefits to cover transportation to your CRT branch appointments.  

How Would Covering Transportation Help CRT Users? 

When it comes to CRT equipment, there’s no “one size fits all.” Each mobility device is highly customized to meet each individual user’s specific needs. A customized manual or power wheelchair can consist of a variety of individual components—all of which require frequent adjustments and repairs since CRT equipment is used on a daily basis. Because of this level of customization, many repairs need to be made by certified technicians. If CRT users can’t travel to their wheelchair provider for an appointment, the technician will come to them. 

Data tells us that 85% of repairs are completed in the home, and in-home repairs are always an option, especially for CRT users who are unable to travel due to their condition or other factors. But if you choose an in-branch appointment, there are benefits including:  

• In-branch repairs give technicians access to more parts than can be stocked on a van as well as specialized equipment/tools and the space needed to complete complicated repairs. 
• If an additional repair or maintenance need is discovered, the technician may be able to complete them without scheduling a follow-up appointment. 
• Technicians can see more CRT users in a day and serve them more quickly. 

If Medicaid, Medicare and private health insurance carriers covered wheelchair evaluation and repair appointments under their NEMT provisions, more CRT users would have access to their local branches for CRT-related appointments, protecting their health, preserving their independence and helping to keep their wheelchairs in optimal working condition.

Did You Know You Can Make a Difference? 

As a CRT user, your experience can help legislators and health insurance carriers see the need for change. Here’s how you can help: 

Pay It Forward: If you are able to travel to a local branch for a repair appointment, please consider doing so. This often results in a quicker repair timeline for you and allows technicians to prioritize CRT users who cannot travel due to diagnosis, condition or other factors with in-home appointments, ensuring everyone gets the help they need as quickly as possible. 

Share Your Story: Reach out to your state’s health and human services department and elected officials at both the state and federal level and explain how accessible transportation policies affect you. Find your elected officials. 

Make Your Voice Heard: Contact your health insurance carrier or Medicaid advisory groups. Call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) directly at 1-800-633-4227. 

The post Did You Know: Transportation Coverage appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

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 a variety of information to your insurance provider for approval. These often include: 

• A prescription,
• A repair evaluation; 
• An equipment or repair estimate, and 
• A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). 

Educate Yourself: Prior authorization requirements can differ depending on the health insurance carrier. Learn about your insurance carrier’s requirements and who is responsible for each step in the process so you know who to reach out to if documentation is missing or delayed. Also note, if you change health insurance carriers at any time during the repair process, you will have to start the process over with your new health insurance carrier as they likely have different prior authorization requirements.

How Would Changing the Prior Authorization Process Help CRT Users? 

Prior authorization creates bottlenecks in the process, delaying CRT users from getting the repair they need to achieve the level of independence and mobility they desire. Reforms to the prior authorization process and requirements would shorten the repair timeline and help CRT users keep moving, allowing them to enjoy daily activities and avoid additional health problems such as respiratory issues or pressure injuries that can develop from not having regular use of their customized mobility equipment.

A few ways prior authorization can slow down the process of making timely repairs include: 

• The authorization process is lengthy, often requiring several types of documentation to be completed by different members of the CRT user’s care team, including physicians, therapists and Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs). Waiting for approvals from your health insurance carrier often makes up for nearly half of the repair timeline, adding one to four weeks to the process. 
• Authorization is required before ordering equipment or parts needed for a repair. It takes time to order, repair and deliver CRT equipment, and CRT providers cannot start the process until the health insurance carrier has approved. 
• If prior authorization is denied, you must appeal the decision, which often means submitting or resubmitting additional documentation and waiting for the health insurance carrier’s decision. 
• Even if your chair was previously approved and determined medically necessary, your health plan may require you to submit a prescription or Letter of Medical Necessity for most repairs—even replacing a battery. Learn more.

What Are Some Potential Solutions to Improve the Repair Timeline Process Related to Prior Authorization?

Reforms to prior authorization are needed to improve the CRT experience for users and their caregivers. These include: 

• Removing requirements for a prescription and a statement of medical necessity for repairs to equipment that has already been approved as medically necessary.
• Removing prior authorization or establishing a threshold up to $1,500 for minor repairs or frequently replaced parts to reduce unnecessary wait times and keep CRT users moving.  

Did You Know You Can Make a Difference? 

As a CRT user, your experience can help legislators and insurance carriers see the need for change. Legislation that seeks to remove or limit prior authorization is currently being considered in several states. You can help by: 

Research What’s Happening in Your State: Follow advocacy organizations like NCART, iNRRTS, AAHomecare and other advocates to stay up-to-date about ongoing efforts and learn what is happening in your state. If legislation is under consideration in your state, research and seek to understand how it would change the prior authorization process for you and your health insurance carrier. 

Share Your Story: Reach out to your insurance carrier and elected officials at both the state and federal level and explain how changes to prior authorization requirements would improve your daily life. Find your elected officials. 

Make Your Voice Heard: In many ways, private health insurance plans follow the example of Medicare and Medicaid. Call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) directly at 1-800-633-4227 to changes to prior authorization requirements. 

The post Did You Know: Prior Authorization appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

When your wheelchair breaks down, you just want to get it fixed as quickly as possible. A repair evaluation with your wheelchair provider at the local branch is often the fastest way to get the repair started, but getting there can be an issue. 

Concerned about transportation to get you and your wheelchair to your provider’s branch for new equipment evaluations or repairs?  Here are a few transit options and resources to consider when needing a ride:

Paratransit

Paratransit services are designed specifically for people who cannot use regular public transit systems, such as individuals with disabilities or senior adults. Generally, paratransit offers door-to-door service, flexible routes and scheduling with accessible vehicles designed to accommodate mobility devices. Examples include Access-A-Ride in New York City or MetroAccess in Washington, D.C. Research your local transit system to see what paratransit options may be available in your area. You may need to meet specific criteria to qualify, and reservations may be required.

Transportation Voucher Programs

These programs offer vouchers or credits that can be used to pay for rides that cover public transit, rideshare services, taxis, paratransit or other transportation options. Programs may have eligibility requirements (sometimes based on income, disability, geographic location or other factors), and voucher programs may focus on different needs, such as medical transport, employment-related travel or general mobility. Examples include RideLink in San Diego County, California, or Dial-A-Ride, which is offered in various locations.

Wheelchair-Accessible Rideshares or Taxis

In larger cities, accessible taxis might be an option to get back and forth from your local wheelchair provider for an appointment. Some rideshare services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicle options, but be aware that these services may need to be scheduled in advance.

Local Nonprofits or Charities

In some locations, nonprofits, senior centers or disability organizations provide accessible transportation for medical appointments. Churches and other faith-based organizations may also be an option in your area.

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.

Remote Evaluations: First Step in the Repair Process

More and more often, the first step in the repair process is setting up a remote evaluation with a technician to determine what might be wrong. Sometimes, the problem can be determined remotely, and, if not, the remote evaluation allows the technician to better prepare for an in-person evaluation. If you’re client of NSM, contact your local branch to learn more.

ADVOCACY ALERT

If more insurance providers covered transportation for CRT-related appointments, it would help keep more CRT users moving through life with the mobility solutions they need for greater independence and healthier lives. Here’s how you can help:

Educate Yourself: To learn more about what’s included or required by your state’s Medicaid program, please reach out to your state’s Department of Health and Human Services or comparable department. Find your state’s department here. If you’re covered by a private insurance provider or Medicare, reach out to your provider for more information on what types of transportation may or may not be covered under your plan.  

Share Your Story: Reach out to your state’s health and human services department and elected officials at both the state and federal level and explain how their accessible transportation policies affect you. Find your elected officials. 

Make Your Voice Heard: Contact your insurance provider or Medicaid advisory groups to reinforce the importance of accessible transportation for CRT services. Call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) directly at 1-800-633-4227. 

Engage with advocacy groups and advisory boards. Advocacy organizations such as the National Organization for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART), the ITEM Coalition and nonprofits or advocacy groups around specific diagnoses, like the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) or United Spinal Association, can all be helpful in guiding you as you advocate for change.

The post What Are Your Transportation Options for Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT)-Related Appointments? appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

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 Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) user, you need to be able to tell the story of what you want to accomplish — and that includes your personal and professional goals as well as how you like to spend your free time. If there’s something you want to be able to do or a particular mobility need you have, be prepared to talk to your ATP about that desire and why it’s important to you. The more clearly you or your caregiver can communicate that need or goal, the better. 

Be Able to Explain What’s Not Working

If something isn’t working quite right with your mobility equipment—from a faulty joystick or failing battery to a hard-to-maneuver manual chair—be prepared to communicate the problem in detail to your ATP. If you cannot communicate it yourself or don’t feel comfortable sharing about your personal circumstances, ask a caregiver or friend to accompany you and help you communicate your needs and desires. 

Review Your Insurance Coverage and Advocate for Yourself

As the insurance policy holder, you need to know and understand what your insurance provider covers and what it doesn’t as well as any documentation requirements they may have. By understanding what documentation is required to prove medical necessity or move the order forward, you can proactively advocate for yourself with your physician and therapy teams to help us obtain the necessary documents and forms. Once documentation has been submitted to your insurance provider, you can contact your provider to expedite your authorization. And—whether it’s your first evaluation or your 100th—be sure to bring your insurance card and other important information to the appointment. 

Do Your Research

Prior to your appointment or evaluation, take a look at the manufacturer’s website to learn more about what’s currently available and might fit your needs. While you may ultimately end up with a different mobility solution, having a solution in mind can help the ATP better understand what you want or need. Come to the appointment prepared to try out a new seating system or piece of equipment or to be assessed while operating the equipment or driving the chair. 

Ask Questions

Make a list of questions you want answered or information you need to understand during the appointment and go over it with your ATP. Ask to be educated on how your equipment works and what you can do to help maintain it and for documentation that supports these efforts. 

Seek to Understand the Process

Whether you’re ordering new equipment or getting a repair, understanding the nuances of the process can be helpful. Ask your ATP to explain the timeline or provide documentation that helps you better understand next steps. While you don’t need to be an expert on every detail, being familiar with the process can be helpful. 

Have more questions about NSM and mobility solutions? Check out these FAQs. 

The post How to Prepare for Your Mobility Equipment Assessment appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Depending on what climate you live in, late fall to early spring can be the perfect time to squeeze in a camping trip, and the Riley family had plenty of advice to offer. Shane and Ainslee Riley live in Maine with their two teenage sons, Liam and Evan, and the Rileys are avid travelers and enjoy camping. 

Both boys use complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment for mobility, so the Rileys shared plenty of accessible travel and camping tips to help you prepare for your next trip. 

When planning a trip, what are some of the questions you ask or decisions you make beforehand? 

You need to determine what you will travel in that meets your needs. Will your accessible vehicle, if you have one, meet the needs for a long road trip? Will you rent an accessible vehicle or RV? If you plan to stay overnight on your way to your destination, are there accessible hotels or campsites en route? 

Also, be sure to research the accessibility at the campsite you plan to rent at your final destination and its proximity to an accessible restroom. Often non-accessible restrooms at campgrounds are very tricky to get into without a lot of heavy lifting and maneuvering, which also creates a lack of privacy. What is your ability to lift? If you can’t lift very much, you may need to travel with a portable lift to make these transitions easier. 

If you’re driving to your campsite, are there benefits to mapping out your route in advance?

We find it helpful to map our route and determine where to stay in advance. That gives us the opportunity to ensure we get an accessible room or campsite with appropriate restroom facilities for our needs. We also research the area for accessible activities and figure out how to make activities that aren’t easily accessible doable for us. 

For wheelchair users and their families and friends, what advice can you offer about selecting a campsite? 

Select an accessible campsite, but also research to ensure that the area where you will put your tent is flat and you can drive a power wheelchair up to it. Having a lightweight transport chair for getting in and out of the tent—and sometimes into the shower areas—is helpful. Our sons sleep more comfortably on a cot with a sleeping pad rather than on the ground, and that also makes it easier for us to pick them up. Again, depending on your ability to lift, you may want to bring a slide board or lift with you. We also have a tent we can stand up in, which makes transfers, helping with dressing and other tasks a little easier. 

If you use a power wheelchair, you’ll want to think about how you’ll charge the battery. If there’s no power at your site, you will need a portable charger or generator of some sort. If you use your vehicle to charge a power wheelchair battery, you risk killing your car battery. 

When planning activities—the things you’ll do and see on your trip—what are some things wheelchair users and their caregivers should consider? 

Research thoroughly. Online information can be misleading, so call ahead to confirm details. Ask about ramp access, transitions and any barriers. For example, some places may consider a 6-inch step “accessible” when it’s not for many CRT users. Specific questions can make or break your plans—especially in areas with variable terrain, like islands with gravel paths.

A National Parks Access Pass can be very helpful too, granting free entry for disabled individuals and up to three guests at all National Parks. We’ve taken our boys to accessible viewing trails in places like Arches National Park and Washington D.C., which has excellent accessibility.

Traveling with your sons, who both use wheelchairs, takes a lot of planning. Why would you encourage other CRT users and their friends or families to travel? 

Why not? It does require some additional advanced planning and research, but it’s worth it. There may be a learning curve at first—and you’ll discover things you wish you’d packed or questions you should have asked—but you’ll know for the next time. You might face unexpected challenges and have to get creative with your solutions, but as long as you’re together and having fun, it makes for great memories. 

You sometimes travel with one or both of your sons’ service dogs. Any advice for CRT users who might be traveling with a service animal? 

Once you know where you’re going, contact your vet to make sure there aren’t additional precautions you need to take or vaccinations your service dog might need. For example, in Georgia, dogs aren’t required to have a vaccination for Lyme’s disease, but in Maine they are. 

Any last pieces of advice for fellow travelers or campers? 

A disability doesn’t have to stop you from traveling. Just this year, one or both of us have traveled with our sons to Puerto Rico, Hurricane Island and Monhegan Island for school trips, taken a cross-country road trip, camped in Colorado and Utah with the Trekkers, and, most recently, gone to Hawaii for a Make-A-Wish trip. We traveled to Baltimore, Boston, Philadelphia, throughout New England, New Jersey, New York, Florida and more. We love to travel! 

Looking for ramps, lifts or other accessibility products that might enhance your travel plans? Reach out to your local National Seating & Mobility branch to learn more about your options.

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MEET FOUR EMPLOYEES THAT EMBODY HONOR, EXCELLENCE, ACCOUNTABILITY, RESPECT, TEAMWORK AND SERVICE.

ETHAN KRUEGER

REHAB EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST
BURNABY, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Ethan Krueger loves the excitement of adaptive
downhill mountain bike racing. The competition, the
camaraderie of riders, the joy of taking on tough trails
at high speeds—he loves it all.

Krueger, who sustained a spinal cord injury on “a big
jump gone wrong” while mountain biking in 2010,
shifted to adaptive mountain biking after his injury.
He is a certified adaptive mountain biking instructor,
working with the Kootenay Adaptive Sports Association.

Krueger also serves on the board of the organization.
A professional adaptive mountain biker, Krueger has also played an active role in bringing the sport into the
mainstream. Last year, the Dunbar Summer Series, a
series of three races held in British Columbia across a
week, added adaptive downhill mountain biking as a
professional category.

“It was a groundbreaking season for adaptive
downhill mountain biking,” Krueger says. “We had
our first downhill adaptive mountain biking race
series sanctioned by the governing body, UCI (Union
Cycliste Internationale).”

In 2022, the entire British Columbia Racing Cup
Circuit—which Krueger describes as a “breakthrough
race season for entering international level
competition”—will include adaptive downhill
mountain biking as a professional category.
Krueger, who’s excited to participate in races
this summer, also celebrates the attention these
advancements bring to the sport. For him, it’s all
about making adaptive mountain biking more
familiar and accessible to more people.

“To see people who have been confined to pavement
for years get onto the trails and take in the scenery
and smell that earthy, pine smell, there’s nothing like
it,” Krueger says. “There’s always a moment where
they stop and take it all in because they never thought
they’d be there. And that’s why it’s all worth it.”

WAYNE LEAVITT

REHAB TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST
DALLAS, TEXAS

Once Wayne Leavitt found tennis, he never looked back.
“I like the challenge of tennis,” Leavitt says. “When you play singles, it’s you against the other person. You’re your own coach on the court, so I really enjoyed the challenge of competing and traveling around and
meeting other people.”

In November 2021, Leavitt was inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame for his contributions to wheelchair tennis. Leavitt, who holds a record for playing in the U.S. Open National Wheelchair Championship for 25 consecutive years, is only the second wheelchair tennis player to receive the honor. The first was Randy Snow, who taught Leavitt how to play.

“It was quite an honor to be inducted,” Leavitt says. “It was a neat experience. I ended up having 30 people—players, relatives, friends—come to watch me be inducted.”

While helping his dad with a backyard project in 1968, Leavitt fell 30 feet from a radio antenna, resulting in a T4 spinal cord injury and complete paraplegia. Less than a year later, he helped to start the first wheelchair basketball team in the Dallas area.

As the program grew, Leavitt took on a number of roles,
ranging from coach to sports director for the entire program. Later, after learning how to play wheelchair tennis, Leavitt played an instrumental role in developing the sport throughout the state, country and world.

When the Paralympics came to Atlanta in 1996, he was selected to serve as the U.S. tennis team coach. Leavitt counts the experience among his life’s greatest honors.
But greater still is the joy of playing a part in introducing so many athletes to adaptive sports, Leavitt says. “It’s always great to teach other people and take your knowledge and implant it into other people,” Leavitt says. “I had somebody teach me, so I’m paying it forward and teaching other people.”

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