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AB-517 • 2026

Medi-Cal: complex rehabilitation technology: wheelchairs.

Medi-Cal: complex rehabilitation technology: wheelchairs.

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 - Died - Appropriations
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The source states that existing Medi-Cal provisions are subject to necessary federal approvals, which implies this bill may also require them.

Medi-Cal Rules for Power Wheelchair Repairs

This law stops Medi-Cal from requiring permission before fixing power wheelchairs if the repair costs $1,250 or less.

What This Bill Does

  • Stops the Department of Health Care Services from requiring prior authorization for wheelchair repairs under $1,250.
  • Removes the need for a new doctor's prescription to fix an already approved power wheelchair.
  • Requires suppliers to keep records showing what was fixed and why it needed repair.
  • Allows the department to check these supplier records after payment is made.

Who It Names or Affects

  • Medi-Cal patients who use complex rehabilitation technology like power wheelchairs
  • Suppliers that provide repairs for medical equipment
  • The State Department of Health Care Services

Terms To Know

Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT)
Specialized durable medical equipment, such as complex manual or power wheelchairs.
Prior Authorization
A rule requiring approval from the insurance program before a service can be done.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The law only applies to repairs costing $1,250 or less.
  • Changes may need federal Medicaid approvals before they take effect.
  • The official effective date is not listed in the provided text.

Bill History

  1. California Legislative Information

    Assembly - Died - Appropriations

Official Summary Text

Medi-Cal: complex rehabilitation technology: wheelchairs.