New Hampshire Prosthetic Legislation
New Hampshire Passes Legislation Supporting Coverage of Custom Prosthetics
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.
New Hampshire Legislative Activity
In 2024, New Hampshire passed a law (SB-177) that requires fully insured commercial health plans to provide coverage for an additional prosthesis for children age 18 and under if their physician determines it is medically necessary for physical and recreational activities, including running, bicycling, swimming, climbing, skiing, and team and individual sports. Starting on January 1, 2027, this same coverage will be applied to adults of all ages.
Supported by So Every BODY Can Move, the law for those age 18 and under took effect on January 1, 2025. The new law applied to people of all ages will take effect on January 1, 2027.
What does this mean for the citizens of New Hampshire?
If you currently use an upper or lower limb prosthesis but struggle to participate in sports or other kinds of physical activities due to limitations of your daily use device, and could benefit from the increased physical activity that a specialized prosthesis would provide, reach out to your prosthetist to discuss whether you qualify.
Would you benefit from a specialized prosthesis?
- Do you have trouble performing or participating in certain activities using your current everyday prosthesis?
- Could increased physical activity improve your mental or physical health? How so?
- How could exercising or increased physical activity improve your overall quality of life?
- Are there any health concerns that could develop from increasing your physical activity?
Running requires different biomechanics than walking. When running, more push-off energy is generated by the ankle than during walking, and upon heel strike, the vertical impact of running can equal around four times one’s body weight. The good news is that there are prosthetic devices specifically designed for running to maximize shock absorption and energy return while improving stamina and minimizing injury.
Michael Oros, CPO, FAAOPPresident of Hanger Clinic
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Reach out to your physician, therapist, or prosthetist to discuss if a prosthesis for physical activity may benefit you.