Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act Introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives

Published in VGM Government Relations on June 28, 2023

Representatives GT Thompson (R-PA), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), and Angie Craig (D-MN) have introduced the Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act (H.R. 4315) in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation aims to address several critical issues faced by Medicare beneficiaries in need of orthotic and prosthetic care. With three major provisions, the bill seeks to enhance the quality of care, streamline the patient experience, and ensure timely access to necessary replacements.

The three provisions include:

1. Prohibiting “drop shipping” for custom orthoses and prostheses
2. Access to the full range of orthotic care from one practitioner
3. Access to replacement custom-fitted and custom-fabricated orthoses

“OPGA is excited and anxious to learn that this important piece of legislation has been introduced into this year’s Congress,” said Adam Miller, President, OPGA. “This is, however, just the beginning, and OPGA remains committed to helping industry stakeholders continue the fight to get it passed into law.”

The introduction of the Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act in the U.S. House of Representatives marks a significant step toward improving the quality of care and accessibility for Medicare beneficiaries in need of orthotic and prosthetic services. The provisions outlined in the bill address critical issues such as drop shipping, fragmented care, and timely access to replacements. If passed into law, this legislation has the potential to enhance patient outcomes, streamline the care process, and ensure that Medicare beneficiaries receive the comprehensive orthotic and prosthetic care they deserve.

“This important legislation will ensure that individuals living with limb loss and limb difference have access to the safe, quality clinical care they need and deserve,” noted Teri Kuffel, JD, President of the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association. “It will also help address the costly fraudulent practices from providers outside the orthotics and prosthetics profession that Medicare beneficiaries have been experiencing in the recent years.”

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