| News for Professionals in the Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics Profession |  |
- CMS extends enrollment period for DMEPOS suppliers
Suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies now have until April 15 to enroll as Medicare participants. CMS extended the deadline, giving suppliers additional time to consider the effects of sequestration and other issues as they determine whether they will accept the Medicare Part B rate as payment in full for beneficiaries. Health Industry Washington Watch blog
(3/12)
   
| Science and Technology
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- Scientists are exploring mind control to direct exoskeleton
European researchers are working on a mind-controlled exoskeleton designed to help paralyzed patients walk again. One approach uses flickering visual stimuli to induce EEG signals as a means of controlling the device. Another method focuses on EMG signals generated by the user’s shoulders during arm-swing patterns natural to walking. The European Commission has provided funding of more than $3.5 million to support the three-year Mindwalker initiative. European Commission/CORDIS
(3/7)
- Plastic drainpipes do service as artificial limbs
 A British orthopedic surgeon provided low-cost prostheses made of plastic drainpipes to help amputees in a Syrian refugee camp. Viquar Qurashi used metal pins and leather straps to attach the molded limbs and rubber feet. While the prostheses are rudimentary, Qurashi noted that a costly device "will be of little use to someone who doesn’t have the money, technology and tools to maintain it.” He has also fitted amputees in his home country of Pakistan and hopes to expand to other developing countries. BBC
(3/13)
, Birmingham Mail (U.K.)
(3/13)
| Medical News
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- Adult stem cells show potential in healing diabetic wounds
Using adult stem cells to treat diabetic foot wounds has “generated some very promising findings,” according to researchers at the University of Galway, Ireland, in a study published in the journal Diabetes. Scientists found that the mesenchymal stem cell, when used with a biomaterial made from collegen, could increase wound healing and help prevent amputations. The stem cells have many therapeutic properties and are easy to grow in the laboratory, said Professor Timothy O’Brien, director of the Regenerative Medicine Institute in Galway. The Journal (Dublin, Ireland)
(3/13)
- Experts: Diabetic ulcers could recur if custom footwear is not worn
Patients with diabetes who had a recently healed foot ulcer did not wear custom footwear for long enough periods, according to research by scientists in Amsterdam. "This low adherence is a major threat for reulceration in this high-risk patient group," wrote the authors , who found that a lower BMI, more severe foot deformity and more appealing footwear correlated with higher rates of adherence. The study was published online in the journal Diabetes Care. Renal and Urology News
(3/13)
- Proper assessment, management prevent pressure ulcers, experts say
Assessing pressure ulcer stage, level of infection and risk factors in patients admitted to the hospital can help clinicians develop targeted therapies that encourage wound healing and prevent new pressure ulcers from forming. In this article, two geriatrics experts review current recommendations for pressure ulcer assessment, treatment and prevention. The Hospitalist
(3/2013)
| Legislative and Regulatory
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- CMS seeks comments on new DMEPOS forms
CMS is requesting comments through April 30 on the proposed Change of Ownership Purchaser and Contract Supplier Notification forms that are part of the competitive bidding program for durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies. Information in the forms will help CMS determine if a merger or acquisition meets competitive bidding requirements. Health Industry Washington Watch blog
(3/13)
| Business and Finance
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| AOPA News
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- Breaking news from AOPA
How AOPA's efforts contributed to Sen. Durbin's O&P bills. The 2013 Policy Forum is a great success – with pictures from the day. AOPA testifies in opposition to a Texas legislative proposal harmful to O&P providers and patients. Don't miss the AOPA correspondence to CMS -- Lots of things are happening for our members in AOPA's breaking news!
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