So Everybody Can Move Team Iowa

Published in Orthotics & Prosthetics on July 01, 2025

By Nikki Grace, Director of OPGA

As an amputee, I deeply understand the emotional and physical hurdles that come with seeking access to activity-specific prosthetics. It’s not just about having the right equipment; it’s about reclaiming our freedom to move, play, and live life to the fullest. This journey can be challenging, but it’s one I’m passionate about changing. That’s why OPGA is excited to partner with the Amputee Coalition and the So Everybody Can Move campaign: (SEBCM) TEAM IOWA! 

Movement is Medicine— and a right, not a privilege. Our grassroots campaign in Iowa is dedicated to ensuring that prosthetic and orthotic devices for physical activity are recognized as medically necessary and covered by insurance. 

What is So Everybody Can Move, SEBCM? 

• A National Coalition: Formed in 2022 by AOPA, NAAOP, the Amputee Coalition, and AAOP, this coalition is dedicated to challenging discriminatory insurance practices. 
• Our Goal: We aim to ensure that every state passes legislation guaranteeing insurance coverage for active-use prostheses and orthoses. Our target is to reach 28 states by the 2028 Paralympics, followed by pursuing federal reform. 

Why It Matters 

• Addressing Coverage Gaps: The lack of coverage leads to significant personal and social costs. Thousands of individuals face out-of-pocket expenses ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 or are forced to live sedentary lives, increasing their risk of obesity, depression, and other health issues. 
• Cost-Effective Solutions: Legislation in states like Illinois, Colorado, and Connecticut would increase insurance spending by just $0.01 to $0.37 per member per month while potentially saving billions in health and social care by promoting healthier, active lifestyles. 

Patient & Industry Impact 

Real-Life Stories: 

• Callaway (NM): Regained her life through access to running and climbing prostheses after her state passed legislation in 2023. 
• SaraMae (Oregon): Expressed, “It is vital that insurance deems physical activity prosthetics and orthotics medically necessary. We already have an uphill battle… we are simply asking for the tools to climb.” 

Industry Voices: In a recent *Industry Matters* podcast, Nicole Ver Kuilen, Campaign Lead for So Everybody Can Move and Sheryl Sachs, OPGA 2024 Woman of the Year, joined me to highlight the SEBCM initiative expansion into Iowa and discuss its transformative impact across the O&P sector. 

Message from Nicole Ver Kuilen 

“We’re working to create equitable and life-changing access to prosthetic and orthotic care necessary for physical activity.” Nicole emphasizes that access to mobility isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s fundamental to independence, health, and dignity. 

How Iowa Fits In 

Iowa is ready to join the growing list of states championing this equitable approach. With your support: 

1. We can introduce model legislation here. 
2. We can engage OPGA members, clinical teams, vendors, and patient advocates statewide. 
3. We will build momentum toward passing coverage mandates that allow Iowans to thrive physically and socially. 

Join the Movement! 

Interested in supporting or learning more? We welcome collaboration from member clinics, vendors, advocates, legislators, and patient families. OPGA will provide resources such as: 

• Advocacy & Lobbying Toolkit 
• Fact sheets and model legislation packets 
• Coordination with AOPA, NAAOP, Amputee Coalition, AAOP, and seasoned campaign leaders 

To get involved or receive materials, please contact me at OPGA: nikki.grace@vgm.com. You can also visit the So Everybody Can Move campaign at soeverybodycanmove.org for more information. 

Together, let’s ensure every person in Iowa has the tools to move, thrive, and live fully!