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AB-1561 • 2026

Medi-Cal: complex rehabilitation technology.

Medi-Cal: complex rehabilitation technology.

Healthcare Technology
Active

The official status still shows this bill as active or still awaiting another formal step.

Sponsor
Krell
Last action
Official status
Assembly - Health
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

Checked against official source text during the last sync.

Medi-Cal Rules for Repairing Power Wheelchairs

This law stops Medi-Cal from requiring prior approval or a new doctor's note to repair power wheelchairs costing $1,250 or less if the wheelchair was already approved.

What This Bill Does

  • Stops the department from asking for prior authorization if a CRT-powered wheelchair repair costs $1,250 or less.
  • Removes the need for an individual prescription or proof of medical necessity when repairing a power wheelchair that has already been approved for use by the patient.
  • Requires suppliers to write down and keep records of what was fixed, why it broke, and labor details.
  • Allows the department to check supplier records after payment is made.

Who It Names or Affects

  • Medi-Cal patients who use complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) power wheelchairs
  • Suppliers who repair these medical devices for Medi-Cal beneficiaries

Terms To Know

Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT)
A form of durable medical equipment, including complex rehabilitation manual and power wheelchairs.
Prior Authorization
Approval required from the department before a service can be provided.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The law only applies to repairs costing $1,250 or less.
  • These rules depend on receiving federal approvals and funding availability.

Bill History

  1. California Legislative Information

    Assembly - Health

Official Summary Text

Medi-Cal: complex rehabilitation technology.