WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sens. Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) called on the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to extend Medicare coverage to include a device that would help some Americans with disabilities get around more easily and live healthier and more independent lives. 

The senators urged the agency to cover standing systems embedded in power wheelchairs, which currently are not covered by Medicare. The letter comes after the senators successfully pushed the agency to provide Medicare coverage for seated elevation systems last year.

“These [standing] systems enable users to achieve a standing position, which can greatly enhance their independence, improve metabolic functions, reduce the risk of secondary complications, such as pressure sores and osteoporosis, and improve their overall physical and mental well-being,” the senators wrote. “The absence of Medicare coverage for these systems leaves many beneficiaries without access to critical technology that can significantly improve their health outcomes and quality of life.”

Currently, Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities are forced to pay out of pocket for standing systems in power wheelchairs—life-changing durable medical equipment that empowers users to independently conduct mobility-related activities of daily living. Sometimes they are outright denied access because they can’t afford such equipment out-of-pocket, the senators said.