Orthotics & Prosthetics Proposal Opposed by AOTA (Update October)

Update October 6, 2009

AOTA has learned that there is continued effort to move forward with harmful provisions in the Senate. AOTA members should contact their Senators and Representative and express concern regarding changes to orthotics and prosthetics reimbursement and accreditation that would negatively impact access to occupational therapy. Use the Take Action button to contact your Members of Congress today.

Update October 2, 2009

AOTA Successful in Blocking Harmful Orthotics & Prosthetics Amendment

AOTA has worked over the past two Congresses to oppose legislation that would require additional certification or licensure requirements for occupational therapy practitioners working with Medicare beneficiaries who need orthotics and prosthetics. The legislation would restrict access to and reimbursement for occupational therapy services and is an unnecessary burden to occupational therapists practicing under their own profession's licensure, regulation and scope of practice.

The bill was introduced in the House but was dangerously raised as a potential offset to a Senate Finance Amendment. AOTA was successful in educating the Finance committee about problems with Senator Wyden's (D-OR) amendment D10, to the Senate Finance Committee's health care reform proposal and Senator Wyden abandoned the off-set creating a significant victory for AOTA.

AOTA worked behind the scenes in a targeted manner collaborating with State Association Presidents representing occupational therapy practitioners in states with Senators on the Finance Committee. AOTA also targeted Senator Wyden's state of Oregon with grassroots e-mails which quickly got the attention of the Senator. Federal Affairs staff also met directly with Senate staff as well as with representatives of the O & P groups to oppose the inclusion of the O & P language. Additionally, AOTA partnered with other associations and led the effort to stop the harmful proposal promoted by the orthotics and prosthetics industry.

AOTA remains opposed to the poorly named Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Improvement Act of 2009 (HR 2479) which was introduced in the House. Continue to advocate and express your opposition to this bill to be sure it does not make progress in the House or move forward as an amendment in the Senate. Use the Take Action button to send a message to your Members of Congress.