LANSING, Mich. — The Senate Health Policy and Human Services Committee on Tuesday took testimony on legislation sponsored by state Sen. Kevin Daley that would help disabled individuals get the products and services they need.
“This legislation will create stronger safeguards and help those with severe disabilities throughout the state,” said Daley, R-Lum. “The goal is to help individuals who need specifically configured medical equipment meet their needs and get the items they need to go about their daily lives.”
Daley was joined by Barry Cargill, president and CEO of the Michigan HomeCare and Hospice Association.
“Sen. Daley’s legislation ensures access to critical complex rehabilitation technology services to improve health and quality of life for children and adults with significant disabilities,” Cargill said.
Senate Bill 855 would require the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to establish policies and rules for complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) products and services. The legislation would create a separate recognition for CRT within the Medicaid program to improve access to these critical products and related services for children and adults with significant disabilities.
The bill includes equipment such as complex rehabilitation manual and power wheelchairs and options or accessories, and other specialized equipment.
“For those with severe physical disabilities, access to high quality specialized equipment is so important for improving their quality of life and minimizing health care costs,” Daley said.
The committee is expected to continue taking testimony on Daley’s legislation in the coming weeks.
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Editor’s note: A print-quality version of the above photograph is available by clicking on the image or by visiting the senator’s website at www.SenatorKevinDaley.com. Click on “Photos” under the “In the News” tab.
Photo caption: Sen. Kevin Daley, R-Lum, on Tuesday joined Barry Cargill, president and CEO of the Michigan HomeCare and Hospice Association, in testifying before the Senate Health Policy and Human Services Committee on legislation Daley sponsored to help disabled individuals get the products and services they need.
