General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7106 seeks to improve the coverage and repair processes for customized wheelchairs and mobility scooters under Medicaid and health insurance policies. The bill replaces the term "authorized wheelchair dealer" with "authorized wheelchair or mobility scooter dealer" and introduces definitions for "timely repair," "emergency repair," and "mobility scooter." It stipulates that coverage for these devices is contingent upon them being deemed "medically necessary" and that standard options do not meet the recipient's needs. Notably, the bill eliminates the requirement for a new prescription or prior authorization for repairs if the original prescription is less than five years old, ensuring that Medicaid recipients have access to necessary repairs, transportation to repair facilities, and annual preventive maintenance without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Additionally, the bill mandates that authorized dealers provide timely repairs within ten business days and emergency repairs for completely inoperable devices, while also requiring them to maintain accessible communication channels for repair requests. It establishes a wheelchair and mobility scooter repair advisory council to oversee repair practices and recommend improvements, with dealers required to submit monthly reports on repair activities. The bill introduces penalties for noncompliance with repair standards, defining systemic noncompliance as an unfair or deceptive act. Overall, Raised Bill No. 7106 aims to enhance the accessibility and reliability of wheelchair and mobility scooter repairs, ensuring consumers receive timely and effective service.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-337, 42-338