Substitute House Bill No. 7106 aims to improve the coverage and repair services for customized wheelchairs under the Medicaid program by repealing Section 17b-278i and replacing it with new definitions and terms, including "customized wheelchair" and "emergency repair." The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Social Services provide coverage for medically necessary repairs or replacements of customized wheelchairs, transportation to repair facilities, annual preventive maintenance, and expedited delivery of parts. It also eliminates the requirement for a new prescription or prior authorization for repairs unless the original prescription is over five years old. Additionally, the bill amends Sections 42-337 and 42-338 to clarify the responsibilities of authorized wheelchair dealers, requiring them to complete repairs within ten business days and to provide emergency repairs for completely inoperable wheelchairs.

The legislation further enhances accountability for wheelchair dealers by requiring them to maintain accessible contact information for consumer repair requests and respond within one business day. Dealers must assess repair needs, order parts promptly, and utilize a scheduling management system to keep consumers informed about repair dates. Monthly reporting requirements for dealers are established, allowing the Commissioner of Social Services to monitor compliance and recoup Medicaid payments from those who fail to meet standards. The bill also mandates that the state employee health plan cover medically necessary wheelchair repairs, thereby improving the overall accessibility and reliability of wheelchair repair services for consumers in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-337, 42-338
HS Joint Favorable Substitute: 42-337, 42-338
File No. 518: 42-337, 42-338