No single prosthesis can replace the vast array of fundamental human movements lost from amputation, disease, or disorder. That’s why you may need specialized prostheses designed for activities beyond just standing and walking. These specialized devices can help with movements like running, hopping, skipping, twisting, kneeling, jumping, swimming, dancing, biking, and more. They provide stability, prevent damage, and minimize injury to both your body and the device.  

Arkansas Legislative Activity

In 2023, Arkansas passed a law (HB1252) that requires fully insured commercial health plans to provide coverage for prosthetic care to people who need technology for sports or recreational activities. Here’s what you need to know:

• Coverage for Active Lifestyles: The law mandates that insurance companies provide coverage for prosthetic care that is medically necessary to perform athletics and recreation.
• Athletics and Recreation Defined: This law specifically outlines athletics and recreation as requiring the ability or potential for prosthesis ambulation that exceeds basic ambulation skills, exhibiting high impact, stress, or energy levels.
• Prosthesis Types: This includes coverage for prostheses meeting the description of a blade-type foot designed for running and other high activity or high-impact activities, upper limb prostheses for athletics and recreation, as well as prostheses deemed medically necessary for showering and bathing.
• Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for these recreational prostheses, you need to meet certain functional level criteria (K-3 or K-4) as defined by Medicare, as a user who:
  • Can engage in high-level activities.
  • Can perform activities beyond everyday walking.
• Essential Services and Supplies: Coverage also includes all services and supplies needed to use these prostheses effectively, including replacements when medically necessary.

Supported by So Every BODY Can Move, this law took effect on July 1, 2023.