Maine Prosthetic Legislation
Maine Passes Legislation Supporting Coverage of Custom Prostheses for Physical Activity
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.
Maine Legislative Activity
In 2022, Maine passed a law (LD 1003) that requires fully insured commercial health plans to provide coverage for an additional prosthesis for people under 18 if their physician determines it is medically necessary for physical and recreational activities, including running, bicycling, swimming, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and team and individual sports.
Supported by So Every BODY Can Move, this law took effect on January 1, 2024.
What does this mean for the citizens of Maine?
Children under 18 may qualify for coverage. If your child currently uses an upper or lower limb prosthesis but struggles to participate in sports or other kinds of physical activities due to limitations of their daily use device, and could benefit from the increased physical activity that a specialized prosthesis would provide, reach out to their orthotist or prosthetist to discuss whether they qualify.
Would your child benefit from a specialized prosthesis?
When considering if you would qualify for and benefit from a specialized or activity specific orthosis or prosthesis, ask yourself the following questions:
- Does your child have trouble performing or participating in certain activities using their current everyday prosthesis?
- Could increased physical activity improve their mental or physical health? How so?
- How could exercising or increased physical activity improve their overall quality of life?
- Are there any health concerns that could develop from increasing their 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
Request a Free Evaluation
Reach out to your physician, therapist, or prosthetist to discuss if a prosthesis for physical activity may benefit you.