Evidence on Standing Frames for Insurance Denials

This document was developed by the Clinician Task Force (www.cliniciantaskforce.us) and the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (www.ncart.us) to provide helpful guidance regarding the proper coverage and funding of standing devices for children and adults. Standing devices are classified within the broad category of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and are included in a sub-category of products called Complex Rehab Technology (CRT). 

When properly prescribed and utilized, standing devices play an important role in reducing medical complications, clinical interventions, and hospitalizations for certain children and adults with disabilities. The benefits of standing are not specific to a certain primary diagnosis; individuals with a mobility impairment can be appropriate to stand. Therefore, a lack of access to these devices harms individuals who require this technology and will result in increased health care complications and costs. 

Federal, state, and commercial health insurance programs must maintain appropriate coverage and funding policies to allow adequate access to this specialized equipment. This compilation of medical benefits, evidence, and coverage guidelines was developed to provide a basis for those policies, and a response to provide funding sources when these items are denied.