Washington Medicaid Standing Frames

Published in Complex Rehab on June 02, 2020

In December 2019, Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) changed their coverage policies for standing frames and stated that while they would continue to review and potentially authorize requests for standing frames for pediatric patients, they would no longer be considering or authorizing requests for standing frames for patients above the age of 21. VGM/U.S. Rehab staff worked closely with Pacific Association for Medical Equipment Services (PAMES) and other industry stakeholders to engage with Washington Medicaid regarding this policy change. Collectively, we helped educate them regarding the physiological, mental, social, and other benefits that standing frames can provide to patients of ALL ages. To their credit, HCA listened.

Despite the fact that they had a study conducted on standing frames specifically that concluded there was very low strength of evidence for all outcomes related to the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of the use of standing frames, we received communication from Washington Medicaid on May 27 stating, “In response to your feedback, the agency is repealing 182-543-3200. The agency will continue to evaluate requests for standing frames using the process outlined in WAC 182-501-0165, which allows for an individualized medical necessity review. Providers must request prior authorization to complete this.”

This is a perfect example of how we can accomplish great things as an industry. We all play a key role in driving change, and it starts with identifying a shortfall and bringing it to the attention of people that can help bring about the change that is necessary. A special thanks to the provider who did just that, and also to PAMES, NCART, AAHomecare, Washington Medicaid staff, Permobil, and all of the other stakeholders that were involved in making this request for change a reality.

From Our Experts

Maximize Your Heartland Experience: Tips, Tools, & Must-Knows thumbnail Maximize Your Heartland Experience: Tips, Tools, & Must-Knows Here's everything you need to know to ensure a smooth, successful, and unforgettable Heartland experience. Understanding the Value of ATP Certification and ATP Academy thumbnail Understanding the Value of ATP Certification and ATP Academy Becoming an ATP is a popular path often taken by occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), occupational therapy assistants (OTAs), physical therapy assistants (PTAs), and wheelchair technicians. With an ATP certification, one can both fill the needs of suppliers to sell certain wheelchairs and demonstrate that they have the skills and knowledge to complete their job as defined by the leading authority in the credentialing industry. Mobility Awareness Month: Celebrating the Impact of Mobility Providers thumbnail Mobility Awareness Month: Celebrating the Impact of Mobility Providers May is Mobility Awareness Month, a time recognizing the importance of mobility solutions, the professionals who provide them, and those who rely on them. U.S. Rehab's Live Tech Training and ATP Gateway Training Programs for 2025 thumbnail U.S. Rehab's Live Tech Training and ATP Gateway Training Programs for 2025 Our focus and one of our key drivers to help support our U.S. Rehab members is to continue to lead the way in complex rehab technology (CRT) training, offering Live Tech Training sessions and a new ATP Gateway Training Program in 2025. Marketing: Avoid Overspending thumbnail Marketing: Avoid Overspending Marketing your business effectively doesn't have to be costly. Adventure and Connections Await at Heartland 2025 thumbnail Adventure and Connections Await at Heartland 2025 This year's Heartland Conference promises an exciting lineup of activities designed to foster connections, inspire innovation, and create lasting memories. Accessories Just Got Easier to Bill thumbnail Accessories Just Got Easier to Bill CMS's decision to revise and expand E1028 and create three new HCPCS codes based on where it's being used on a wheelchair is a "win” for the industry. Heartland Conference Announces Extended Early Bird Special and New Refund Policy thumbnail Heartland Conference Announces Extended Early Bird Special and New Refund Policy Register for Heartland before April 30 to save $100. If circumstances prevent you from attending, we will fully refund your registration through June 1.