FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act

Jun 18, 2026

Summary

Stops Medicare Advantage plans from requiring advance permission before covering repairs for complex, specialized wheelchairs.

What problem does this solve?

People on Medicare Advantage plans often wait a long time for wheelchair repairs because of slow insurance approvals. This bill removes the need for pre-approval for repairs, helping people get their wheelchairs fixed faster.

What does this bill do?

Prohibits prior authorization for wheelchair repairs

Forbids Medicare Advantage (MA) plans from requiring any pre-approval, prescriptions, or medical documents for repairs to complex rehabilitation technology, like specialized wheelchairs.

Keeps pre-approval for new or replacement wheelchairs

Clarifies that pre-approval is still required for the first time a person gets a complex wheelchair, or for a full replacement if the old one is lost, broken beyond repair, or over 5 years old.

Defines complex rehabilitation technology

Specifies that 'complex rehabilitation technology' includes certain complex power and manual wheelchairs and their related accessories.

Who does this affect?

Medicare Advantage beneficiaries who use complex wheelchairs
Wheelchair repair companies
Medicare Advantage insurance providers

What is the real world impact?

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Speeds up essential wheelchair repairs

Reduces delays for people who depend on complex wheelchairs by removing the insurance pre-approval step for repairs. This helps them maintain their mobility and independence without long waits.

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Could increase insurance costs

Insurance companies may argue that removing pre-approvals limits their ability to control costs and prevent unnecessary repairs, which could lead to higher premiums for everyone.

When does this start?

The new rules would apply to insurance plans starting on the first January 1st after the bill becomes law.