New Medicare Wheelchair Plan Could Hurt Pride – And Industry Update Prior to Medtrade 2006

Times Leader | 09/15/2006 | New Medicare wheelchair plan could hurt Pride

Pennsylvania’s two U.S. senators and two local congressmen want to delay new, stricter Medicare policies they say might deny the elderly and disabled access to power wheelchairs. The new policies could also hurt wheelchair manufacturer Pride Mobility Products Corp., one of Luzerne County’s largest employers and the source of more than $57,000 in campaign cash for the four federal legislators.

Pride is not the only company hurting.

In related news with the upcoming Medtrade – Mal Mixon – Invacare CEO, in one of the pre show promotional emails says

The Rehab industry faces unique challenges in this new world of reimbursement changes. With ongoing cuts in reimbursement, 64 new wheelchair codes still without pricing, and competitive bidding on the horizon, Rehab providers are faced with a difficult question: How can I continue to provide clinical efficacy, yet at the same time maintain my bottom line?

Invacare will be introducing new power wheelchair electronics according to the statement.

Sunrise Medical will also be introducing their new Groove Power line.

Permobil – innovative Scandinavian company is promising to introduce its “Evolution” and goes on to discuss the impact of reimbursement changes.

Bottom line is despite / or as a result of the reimbursement changes – the industry is putting out strong messages of new products and innovations. Let’s hope both that both shareholders and consumers are going to benefit equitably.