What often go unrecognized are the demographics of the people who qualify for Medicare's power mobility benefit and the rigorous qualification process.

The average power mobility recipient is 71-years-old and suffering from at least three chronic diseases, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. These Medicare beneficiaries are certainly not using scooters for joy rides. In fact, manufacturers report that nine out of every 10 scooter sales are made in cash, with no association whatsoever to the Medicare program. Furthermore, data from the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services show that scooters represent about 2 percent of Medicare's total expenditures for power mobility.

Also consider that Congress has mandated that to obtain a power wheelchair through Medicare a patient must undergo a face-to-face examination with their physician. After completing an exhaustive series of regulatory requirements, the physician will then write a prescription if it is determined that the beneficiary needs a power wheelchair.

As usual, the truth is nowhere near as flashy as the myths. But with Congress on the verge of enacting revolutionary changes to our healthcare system, it is critical that lawmakers and policymakers differentiate between truth and myth when it comes to power mobility. What's clear is that power wheelchairs must be part of the equation moving forward. This medical equipment improves safety and enhances the lives of our seniors, the generation that built and protected our great nation.

We owe them an opportunity to spend their golden years with dignity and respect -- in their homes.

SOURCE The SCOOTER Store