A Favor.....

Hello Everyone! I don't generally get involved with Legislation; in fact, as I'm writing this I'm not 100% sure that is what I should call it. I know that I need to become more educated on the subject.

The reason I am writing is because my Brother-in-law informed me of a bill that is going before the House on Friday. This bill, HB 66, will affect our family. As you know Easton has a Prosthetic leg. We have been VERY blessed by Shriner's Hospital for Children and have not had to pay for his leg's thus far. However, at age 18, Easton will no longer be covered by Shriner's and will have to get his Prosthesis under his own insurance.....

HB 66 is asking insurance companies to change their coverage for prosthetic limbs. It is asking for coverage to be on par with other prosthetic devices and with the Medicare standard of coverage.

Currently, prosthetic coverage for the replacement of a hip, knee, shoulder, toe, (anything internal) are a routinely covered benefit by insurers. However, any prosthetic device on the outside of the body, (arm, leg) do not have the same coverage benefit and have unrealistic caps and limitations placed on the coverage, making it nearly impossible for an individual suffering from limb loss, to restore their limb.

The insurance companies have figured out that many amputees qualify for disability, Medicare, Medicaid, Vocational Rehab and other State and Federal programs. They have determined that they can get the public sector to help pay for prosthesis. When a person is on government assistance for disability, they are limited to the number of hours they can work. Because of their low income, very few of them actually pay taxes. HB 66 will help them get off of disability, generate better income, contribute to taxes, and become a more productive member of society. The drain on government assistance programs is reduced. Imagine a government bill that increases tax revenue, and cuts reliance on government programs?

HERE, is where you come in. I am asking that you email the house and encourage them to vote YES.

The email can be short and sweet... Dear Representative, please vote YES on HB 66 (Prosthetic Limb Health Insurance Parity). (insert personal story and talking points here). Sincerely, ____ . In the Subject line, put “Vote YES on HB 66 (Prosthetic Limb Health Insurance Parity)”

Here are links to ALL of the legislators emails. Feel free to copy and paste them into the BCC section of your email.

* For the House of Representatives: http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=50614233703&topic=13838


Sorry this is so long.... I appreciate you taking the time to help.

With Love,
Tiffany