S.247 - Choices for Increased Mobility Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Choices for Increased Mobility Act of 2025 (S.247) aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act, specifically addressing payment rules for manual wheelchairs under Medicare Part B. The bill requires the Secretary to establish separate Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes for ultralightweight manual wheelchairs based on their construction material, particularly those using titanium or carbon fiber. This aims to differentiate payment structures based on the materials used in the wheelchair's base.
The bill also outlines payment and beneficiary protection measures. It specifies how suppliers will be paid for ultralightweight manual wheelchairs with titanium or carbon fiber construction and allows suppliers to charge beneficiaries the difference between the Medicare payment amount and the actual charge for the wheelchair.
Finally, the Secretary may require suppliers to issue a notice to individuals informing them of their potential financial liability before they purchase or rent such wheelchairs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be a change in how Medicare reimburses suppliers for ultralightweight manual wheelchairs. It will create a tiered payment system based on the materials used in the wheelchair's construction.
Beneficiaries may face higher out-of-pocket costs for wheelchairs with titanium or carbon fiber components, but they will also receive notice of these potential costs upfront. This could lead to greater transparency in pricing and more informed consumer choices.
Suppliers will need to adapt to the new coding and payment rules, potentially affecting their inventory and pricing strategies.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Choice: Beneficiaries may have more choices in selecting wheelchairs that best suit their needs, including those with advanced materials like titanium or carbon fiber.
- Transparency: The required notice informs beneficiaries of potential out-of-pocket costs, promoting transparency in pricing.
- Innovation: Differentiated payment structures could incentivize manufacturers to develop and offer a wider range of wheelchair options.
- Improved Access: By clarifying payment rules, the bill aims to ensure continued access to necessary mobility equipment for Medicare beneficiaries.
- Tailored Solutions: The bill allows for more tailored solutions for individuals with specific mobility needs, as ultralightweight wheelchairs can offer enhanced maneuverability and comfort.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs: Beneficiaries may face higher out-of-pocket costs for wheelchairs with titanium or carbon fiber construction.
- Administrative Burden: Suppliers may face increased administrative burden in complying with the new coding and notification requirements.
- Potential for Confusion: The tiered payment system and required notices could potentially confuse beneficiaries.
- Limited Scope: The bill only addresses manual wheelchairs, potentially overlooking other types of mobility equipment.
- Unintended Consequences: The payment structure could unintentionally disincentivize suppliers from offering certain types of wheelchairs.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to improve access to necessary medical equipment for Medicare beneficiaries. The Constitution's preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to Medicare under its enumerated powers. Specifically, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).