Why does CMS reimbursement for Dynamic Backs matter?

CMS reimbursement can affect whether complex rehab suppliers are able to provide Dynamic Backs to people who need them. If reimbursement is significantly below the cost of providing the equipment, access may become more difficult even when the Dynamic Back is medically necessary.

Why would someone medically need a Dynamic Back on their wheelchair?

A Dynamic Back may be recommended for people with spasticity, severe extensor tone, repetitive rocking or other movement patterns that create significant forces against the wheelchair. It allows controlled movement in response to those forces rather than requiring the person to push against a completely static seating system.

What can happen when someone with severe extensor tone uses a rigid wheelchair back?

Depending on the individual, repeated force against rigid seating may contribute to equipment damage, loss of positioning, pain, pressure concerns or injury. In this article, Daniel’s parents describe broken mounting hardware, pressure injuries and orthopedic problems before he received his Dynamic Back.

Why do physical therapists and seating clinicians recommend Dynamic Backs?

Clinicians may recommend Dynamic Backs when controlled movement can address specific seating and mobility needs. The physical therapist featured in this article reports using them with people who have spasticity, severe extensor tone, significant rocking behaviors, pain and sitting intolerance.

Can a CMS reimbursement decision affect access to complex rehab technology even when it is medically necessary?

Yes. Coverage and adequate reimbursement are separate issues. An item may be considered medically necessary, but if the reimbursement amount does not cover the cost of providing it, suppliers can face significant barriers to delivering that equipment. This is the concern behind the comments shared throughout this Seating Dynamics series.

Dynamic Stories Archives | Seating Dynamics

So These Voices Can Be Heard: Final Comments to CMS on Dynamic Backs

Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS In 2022, CMS published a proposed fee schedule for Dynamic Backs, and many people answered the call to provide comments on this important topic. Unfortunately, CMS decided not to receive comments right before a public meeting on this topic, stating that a final decision had already been made. We have…

Supplier Interview: Jason Kelln, ATP, CRTS, Prairie Heart Mobility

Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS Jason Kelln is the Sales Manager at Prairie Heart Mobility in Saskatchewan, Canada. Jason was the first Canadian member of iNRRTS (the International Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers) and just completed a term as their President. He frequently uses Dynamic Seating (DS) intervention with the clients he serves, and he…

Dynamic Seating Benefits from a PT Gavin Horan, LCS, LTd.

Seating Dynamics: A LCS Perspective Gavin Horan, PT Gavin Horan, PT and Clinical Sales Specialist with LCS, Ltd. in Sligo, Ireland, wrote the following on LinkedIn. We asked him to share his valuable thoughts in a Seating Dynamics blog. “In complex seating, the conversation often centres on alignment, support, and stability. But clinically, human posture…

Dynamic Stories

So These Voices Can Be Heard: Final Comments to CMS on Dynamic Backs

Supplier Interview: Jason Kelln, ATP, CRTS, Prairie Heart Mobility

Dynamic Seating Benefits from a PT Gavin Horan, LCS, LTd.

Dynamic Stories: Jeanie, CP Advocate and Dynamic Seating User

How Many People Does It Take to Install the Dynamic Rocker Back interface?

Dear CMS…A Technician’s Perspective

Dear CMS…Tamara’s Thoughts

Clinician Interview: Suzanne Wilhoit, OTR/L, ATP

Dear CMS…a consumer’s perspective about the Dynamic Back Fee Schedule

Reducing Resistance to Allow Rocking