Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/48253
HME NEWS / DECEMBER 2011 / WWW.HMENEWS.COM 'By viewing this video, lawmakers will get an idea of the people that use (CRT)' Video speaks 1,000 words BY ELIZABETH DEPREY, Associate Editor BUFFALO, N.Y. – Anyone hoping to convince lawmakers of the impor- tance of complex rehab technol- ogy (CRT) will have a new tool, thanks to NCART. KEYNOTE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 the supplier community and do everything that we can to make sure that this industry continues to survive and thrive. I believe that's in jeopardy unless we, as a larger community of both sup- pliers and end users, really work together. I think that for the sake of political expediency and bud- getary gimmickry, this industry is being threatened, and we really need to make sure that doesn't happen. The implications would be dire on all sides of this market. HME: How is United Spinal empow- ering those end users to speak for themselves? Tobin: We are strong believers that it's necessary for the grassroots component of advocacy to be awakened in the disability com- munity. And we think that Users First, New Mobility and National Spinal Cord Injury Association— three programs that have all been added recently to the United Spi- nal Association—complement the strong formal advocacy that United Spinal has had in its long history. HME CRT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Dickerson said the announce- ment was an example of the kind of advocacy efforts that Williams believed made things happen. The next step: Stakehold- ers must convince one of the Republican representatives they've been in discussions with to step up to the plate, allowing a bipartisan bill to be introduced, said Clayback, NCART executive director. "We're very excited," said Clayback. "The work we've been doing for the past two years has finally cracked the congressional barrier." Separate benefit work- groups have drafted not only legislation but also regula- tory language to share with CMS once the bill is passed to ensure the original intent is followed, Clayback said. Once the bill is introduced and has a number, CRT stake- holders will begin the grass- roots efforts needed to add additional co-sponsors. HME Create More Positive Outcomes For Your Business With Continuing Innovation and New Product Lines Soft, Low Friction Inner Fabric Lining Hinged Velcro® Strap for East Adjustment Breathable Mesh Material Over One Inch of Velcro® on Each Side for Maximum Adjustability to Accommodate Extra Volume Padded Collar for Extra Comfort An eight-minute video, sched- uled to be released in mid-Decem- ber, includes interviews with con- sumers, a physician involved with a seating clinic and an advocacy leader. "By viewing this video, lawmak- ers will get an idea of the people that use (CRT), the people that provide it, and why it's important that access be protected," said NCART Executive Director Don Clayback. "It's critical that those decision makers understand the specialized nature of the products and how people use them, and how it's provided." Clayback said policymakers, whether on the state, federal or pri- vate level, should make informed decisions for the good of patients Mobility and the industry. Clayback said the video's gen- eral nature will allow for use in a variety of settings. "Ideally, it will put the person viewing it in a better position to understand whatever topic we may be talking about from an advocacy standpoint," he said. Advocates may contact NCART to ask how to access the video online, download it or to request a hard copy. HME 25 Great For: Severe Edema, Charcot Deformity, Inner Braces Allows for Different Adjustments for Each Foot to Accommodate Unilateral Foot Deformities The New Edward X and Lucie X Double Depth Comfort Collection From A Family of Comfort. Each year millions of people will develop foot complications due to health problems. Properly fitted shoes, socks, inserts and compression wear are essential for reducing these risks. Dr. Comfort shoes are made from the finest leathers and are scientifically designed for various foot complications. Our footwear is extra depth with patented footbeds, our socks and compression wear are created by leading designers with attention to detail and our uniquely patented inserts are comfortable, beyond the "norm". Wellness is our business and our market, we care and pay attention to detail, with new products being developed all the time. Call now to experience exceptional quality and profitability with the finest " Call now to experience exceptional quality and profitability with the finest "Total System" for your business. 877.352.7833 www.drcomfort.com Scan this QR Code to See Our Guarantee at drcomfort.com or Call Us at 877.728.8444 ©2011 Dr. Comfort All Rights Reserved ®