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<strong>CMS</strong>-1403-FC<br />

advances in the use of hearing aids. In addition, Medicare<br />

<strong>has</strong> had a longstanding history of not covering low vision<br />

aids, yet, manufacturers continue to make technological<br />

improvements in this area. Moreover, there are existing<br />

incentives beyond Medicare reimbursement that will continue<br />

to encourage manufacturers and innovators to improve vision<br />

technology.<br />

Comment: Other commenters believe it is inconsistent<br />

and discriminatory for Medicare to cover wheelchairs to<br />

assist individuals with impaired mobility and not to cover<br />

low vision aids to assist individuals with impaired vision.<br />

Response: In order to be covered under Medicare, an<br />

item or service must fall within one or more benefit<br />

categories contained within Part A or Part B, and must not<br />

be otherwise excluded from coverage. Wheelchairs, which<br />

may assist individuals with impaired mobility, fall within<br />

the defined benefit category for durable medical equipment<br />

under section 1861(n) of the Act, and are not otherwise<br />

excluded from coverage under section 1862(a) of the Act.<br />

Low vision aids, on the other hand, are excluded from<br />

coverage under section 1862(a)(7) of the Act and we must<br />

comply with this provision.<br />

997

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