The National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds in Germany (GKV-Spitzenverband) has already updated subgroup 18.51.04 - Leading/hanging bicycles with hand crank drive for children and adolescents in November 2018. However, a look at the German Medical Technical Aids Register. hows that not a single product is listed.
What could be the reason behind it?
These products are front-wheel/hang-on bicycles with a hand crank drive that enable the user to cover longer distances independently in conjunction with an existing push rim wheelchair. These are popular products that one should be able to get reimbursed for on prescription without any complications.
A look at the list of requirements does not provide a quick answer. The classics, such as
- Proof of medical benefit, which can be time-consuming and costly, is not required here.
- No additional tests are required.
- All evidence can be provided with a little experience and an eye for detail through corresponding manufacturer declarations.
Der nächste Blick gilt dem Produktaufbau. Weicht mein Produkt vom geforderten Aufbau ab oder weist es nicht die gewünschten Ausstattungsmerkmale auf, so könnten kostspielige Produktänderungen ein Grund für die Zurückhaltung der Hersteller*innen sein.
What is required?
- A coordinated coupling mechanism should connect the handbikes with the wheelchair used to form a single unit.
- The wheelchair user should be able to carry out the coupling process independently.
- When the handbike s coupled, the castors of the wheelchair are raised and a three-wheeled vehicle is created
- Hand cranks at chest height are used to propel the wheelchair.
- Power is transmitted to the drive wheel via a toothed belt or an encapsulated chain.
These are requirements that pretty much every decent handbike on the market fulfills. So we won't find anything here either.
Are there strategic reasons for not listing them?
In fact, it is usually not a problem to get the rehabilitation aids for children and young people reimbursed by the health insurance company. The usual path is probably not willingly abandoned here.
Just don't upset the system?
As soon as a sub-group is filled with products, it cannot be ruled out that the behavior of the insurance companies with regard to reimbursement will gradually change.
Perhaps there are fears that listed products will be preferred?
It is also possible that not all manufacturers are aware that there is a suitable subgroup in the SHI's list of medical aids.
For the time being, we will have to wait and see. The BEO BERLIN team would be pleased to receive feedback from you.
Why is the HMV number not being applied for?
We look forward to a personal exchange or on the phone. We will also be happy to discuss the listing of your handbikes with you.
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