Medicare Covers Personal Robotic Exoskeletons: First person on the East Coast to apply for Medicare personal device coverage completing training 08.13.2024 RICHMOND, Va. (August 13, 2024) — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved reimbursement for personal robotic exoskeleton devices, meaning individuals like 70-year-old Ivan Vargas can obtain their very own exoskeleton to use at home and in the community. In 2020, Vargas was helping his son-in-law renovate their home when he fell through the ceiling, tumbling to the first floor below. He experienced a T10 spinal cord injury and was paralyzed from the waist down. “I tried to stop myself [from falling] and tore both of my rotator cuffs as well, so I didn’t have my arms to do anything,” Vargas recalls. “That really set me back… it was awful.” For years, FDA-approved robotic exoskeletons—which cost approximately $100,000 each—have been available for patients to use during in-clinic therapy appointments. Personal devices can also be purchased out of pocket or veterans who qualify can obtain one at no cost under a U.S. Veteran’s Administration (VA) policy. However, thanks to CMS’ 2024 Home Health Rule that reclassified exoskeletons under the brace benefit category, individuals can now apply for Medicare coverage at an established rate of $91,032. With secondary insurance, there is potential for beneficiaries’ copays to be covered as well making the device more widely available due to insurance coverage. Vargas—who uses the Ekso Indego—is the first person on the East Coast to apply for Medicare coverage for his device. “It is a life changer for me. I can go to church, I can go see my grandkids play sports, I can volunteer my time someplace. It will be a freedom for me to be able to walk,” said Vargas. He and his wife, Connie, began their rigorous 40-hour home training program at Sheltering Arms Institute’s Hanover outpatient center in June with physical therapist Alivia Thorn, PT, DPT, CSRS. The team is working through a checklist of skills to ensure the couple is ready to safely use the device on their own. Thrilled to take their exoskeleton home soon, Connie added, “It’s amazing. This way, he’ll eventually be able to get in and out of a car while wearing the Indego.” The robot is worn over a user’s clothing and attaches to their legs and trunk before transferring its load to the ground, so the user does not have to bear the weight of the 29-pound device. Its battery-powered motors drive the legs to create a walking pattern among those who are unable to stand or walk on their own due to a spinal cord injury or other neurological injury. Individuals who have experienced a spinal cord injury between the T3 to L5 vertebrae can use the Indego at home or in the community; however, the device is not intended for sports or stair climbing, according to the Ekso website. Medicare coverage not only makes the devices financially attainable but provides hope for newfound independence and numerous physical and psychological benefits. “It opens up accessibility for a lot of people,” said Christina Smith, PT, DPT, NCS, physical therapist and manager of therapy services at Sheltering Arms Institute’s Bon Air outpatient center. “There are numerous secondary benefits of using an exoskeleton at home such as maintaining range of motion, improving blood pressure and cardiovascular function, and increasing bone density. These benefits not only enhance daily life activities, but also aid in preventing future illnesses among non-ambulatory individuals.” Currently, Sheltering Arms Institute offers exoskeleton home training with certified therapists at its Bon Air and Hanover outpatient centers to help patients make the most of this transformative technology. If you or someone you know may be interested in a personal exoskeleton, ask your physician if you are eligible. The Ekso website also has helpful information to see if you qualify. ### About Sheltering Arms Institute Sheltering Arms Institute is a non-profit and donor-supported state-of-the-science physical rehabilitation hospital and network of outpatient centers that brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationally ranked programs and research of VCU Health through a joint venture. Ranked #1 in Virginia and #19 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, the Institute blends advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical treatment to create an innovative, transdisciplinary model of rehabilitative care that facilitates superior outcomes for patients. For more information, please visit ShelteringArmsInstitute.com.
Sheltering Arms Institute Joins Nation’s Top 20 Rehabilitation Hospitals 07.16.2024 RICHMOND, Va. (July 16, 2024) — After joining the nation’s top 50 Best Rehabilitation Hospitals in 2023 in its first year eligible, Sheltering Arms Institute is delighted to announce that our hospital is now ranked among the top 20 physical rehabilitation leaders nationwide. Sheltering Arms Institute is ranked the 19th Best Rehabilitation hospital in the country by U.S. News & World Report. This is a testament to the outstanding patient care Sheltering Arms Institute team members provide every day and is a considerable leap from last year’s ranking of 29th. “We strive to create the best possible rehabilitation programs and patient experience so each person can achieve their best outcomes,” said Alan Lombardo, CEO of Sheltering Arms Institute. “This recognition reflects the teamwork and dedication of our team members, volunteers, and donors; however, the greatest reward is serving others and seeing our patients make progress on their rehab journeys.” U.S. News evaluated 1,049 rehabilitation hospitals for the 2024-2025 rankings. Results were based on several factors, including clinical outcomes, quality of care, and physician opinion. Sheltering Arms Institute exceeded national averages among the top 50 in several key metrics such as the percentage of patients who return home following their rehabilitation stay and the number of patients treated for strokes, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and neurological conditions. The hospital also excelled in the categories of advanced technology and patient services. “For 35 years, U.S. News has been a leading resource for patients navigating their health care decisions,” said Ben Harder, chief of health analysis and managing editor at U.S. News. “A ‘Best Hospital’ recognition empowers patients to seek out medical care from the best of the best to treat their illness or condition.” In fiscal year 2023, Sheltering Arms Institute served 2,369 patients through its inpatient facility and 10,284 patients across its eight outpatient centers. The organization has provided care for patients from 26 states since opening in 2020 and is designated as a Model System in brain injury and spinal cord injury rehabilitation. About Sheltering Arms Institute Sheltering Arms Institute is a non-profit and donor-supported state-of-the-science physical rehabilitation hospital and network of outpatient centers that brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationally ranked programs and research of VCU Health through a joint venture. The Institute blends advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical treatment to create an innovative, transdisciplinary model of rehabilitative care that facilitates superior outcomes for patients. For more information, please visit ShelteringArmsInstitute.com. About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate, Careers and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Sheltering Arms Institute Named Among 2024 Top Workplaces 03.20.2024 RICHMOND, Va. (March 20, 2024) — Sheltering Arms Institute is pleased to announce it has earned the 2024 Top Workplaces USA award, issued by Energage, a purpose-driven organization that develops solutions to build and brand Top Workplaces. The Top Workplaces program has a 15-year history of surveying more than 20 million employees and recognizing the top organizations across 60 markets for regional Top Workplaces awards. “This recognition belongs to our team members,” said Amanda Worley, VP of Human Resources at Sheltering Arms Institute. “Their focus on reinventing rehabilitation, and their embrace of the core values, has created a culture that delivers exceptional patient outcomes.” Top Workplaces USA celebrates organizations with 150 or more employees that have built great cultures. Over 42,000 organizations were invited to participate in the Top Workplaces USA survey. Winners of the Top Workplaces USA list are chosen based solely on employee feedback gathered through an employee engagement survey, issued by Energage. Results are calculated by comparing the survey’s research-based statements, including 15 Culture Drivers that are proven to predict high performance against industry benchmarks. “Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.” About Sheltering Arms Institute Sheltering Arms Institute is a non-profit, state-of-the-science physical rehabilitation hospital and network of outpatient centers that brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationally ranked programs and research of VCU Health through a joint venture. Ranked among the nation’s best rehabilitation hospitals and the top rehab hospital in Virginia by U.S. News & World Report, the Institute blends advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical treatment to create an innovative, transdisciplinary model of rehabilitative care that facilitates superior outcomes for patients. For more information, please visit shelteringarmsinstitute.com. About Energage Making the world a better place to work together.TM Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 18 years of culture research and the results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.
Sheltering Arms Institute Recognized as Partner in MS Care by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society 11.03.2023 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has officially established Sheltering Arms Institute’s Laburnum outpatient center and physical therapist Morgan Largen, PT, DPT, NCS, MSCS, as a Partner in MS Care. This recognition acknowledges the clinic’s dedication to delivering outstanding care for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Partners in MS Care are healthcare providers, including but not limited to, physical therapists, mental health providers, neurologists, and physicians. These providers demonstrate a knowledge of expertise in treating MS and have an established relationship with the National MS Society. To become a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist (MSCS), individuals must meet specific requirements, including working a designated number of hours with the MS population and having the requisite education and knowledge related to MS. After acquiring this certification, the healthcare provider is listed as an expert partner in care on the Partners in Care website, enabling users to search for specialists in their local area by zip code. Morgan believes having this certification at the Laburnum outpatient center will significantly benefit patients. “MS is such a complex disease, and patients are so unique. They can really tell when someone has the knowledge and skillset directly related to MS, so having [our care] tied to the National MS Society gives people the confidence that we provide expert care,” she said. Being a certified specialist has allowed her to better educate and provide for her patients. She stated, “As a Partner in Care, I can easily get resources and tie people to different providers through the National MS Society.” Morgan’s fascination with neurology began during her time in physical therapy school, where she later decided she wanted to be a neurologic-rehab provider. Her particular interest and passion to serve the MS population led her to expand the MS program. Morgan explains that once she sees a patient, she becomes part of their life. “We are able to check in with people more than they check in with their doctors really, so you truly become a care partner.” To learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute’s MS program, click here, or to search for a Partner in MS Care near you, click here.
Sheltering Arms Institute to Expand Inpatient Physical Rehab Hospital 10.02.2023 RICHMOND, Va. (October 2, 2023) — Sheltering Arms Institute, a collaboration with VCU Health, has received approval from the Virginia Department of Health to expand its inpatient rehabilitation hospital following a certificate of public need (COPN) application process. The facility, located just west of Short Pump in West Creek, provides care for individuals recovering from a variety of illnesses or injuries, including strokes, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, as well as those in need of general rehabilitation for various neurological diseases and disorders. The 30 additional beds, which will also be used to provide rehabilitative care, will bring the hospital’s total number of beds to 144. “Since we opened in June of 2020, we have seen immense need for the high-quality physical rehabilitation services that our team members provide, serving more than 2,000 people each year from across the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond,” said Alan Lombardo, CEO of Sheltering Arms Institute. “Our goal is to further increase access to help people achieve their best recovery and live healthy, independent lives.” The 30 new patient rooms will be built on the fourth floor of the hospital, which currently exists as shell space that was constructed as part of the 212,000-square-foot current structure in anticipation of future need. The total capital cost of the project is an estimated $25 million with anticipated funding to include a combination of bank financing and equity contributions from joint venture members Sheltering Arms and VCU Health. Construction will begin once a contractor is selected and is anticipated to take approximately 18 months to complete. About Sheltering Arms Institute Sheltering Arms Institute is a non-profit, state-of-the-science physical rehabilitation hospital and network of outpatient centers that brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationally ranked programs and research of VCU Health through a joint venture. Ranked among the nation’s best rehabilitation hospitals and the top rehab hospital in Virginia by U.S. News & World Report, the Institute blends advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical treatment to create an innovative, transdisciplinary model of rehabilitative care that facilitates superior outcomes for patients. For more information, please visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com.
U.S. News & World Report Names Sheltering Arms Institute Among Best Hospitals Nationwide for 2023-2024 in Physical Rehabilitation 08.01.2023 RICHMOND, Va. (August 1, 2023) — Sheltering Arms Institute has been named by U.S. News & World Report to its 2023-2024 Best Hospitals. The rankings assist patients and their doctors in choosing the right hospital for them. In its first year eligible and of the 1,041 physical rehabilitation hospitals that were evaluated, Sheltering Arms Institute ranks 29th in the country in the physical rehabilitation specialty and is the top rehabilitation hospital in the state of Virginia. “The team members at Sheltering Arms Institute focus on helping each patient achieve their best possible outcomes. This recognition is a testament to the outstanding patient care they provide every day,” said Alan Lombardo, CEO of Sheltering Arms Institute. U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 hospitals across 15 specialties and 21 procedures and conditions; only 12% of evaluated hospitals earned a Best Hospitals ranking. Hospitals awarded a “Best” designation excelled at factors such as clinical outcomes, level of nursing care, and patient experience. For more information on the U.S. News Best Hospitals, explore Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using #BestHospitals. About Sheltering Arms Institute Sheltering Arms Institute is a non-profit and donor-supported state-of-the-science physical rehabilitation hospital and network of outpatient centers that brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationally ranked programs and research of VCU Health through a joint venture. The Institute blends advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical treatment to create an innovative, transdisciplinary model of rehabilitative care that facilitates superior outcomes for patients. For more information, please visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com. About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate, Careers and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Wearable Robot Helps Graduate Walk Across Stage 05.15.2023 RICHMOND, Va. (May 15, 2023) — A wearable robotic exoskeleton that has enabled more than 125 million steps around the world is helping one young man walk across the stage at his graduation. In May 2016, just weeks before his high school graduation, Khalil Watson was shot in the neck causing a devastating spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed. Instead of walking across the stage to receive his diploma from Highland Springs High School as he had planned, Watson streamed his graduation ceremony from a hospital bed. Since his injury seven years ago, Watson—now 25—has worked tirelessly to regain his mobility and independence, relearning how to breathe, eat, speak, and care for himself. “One of my goals is to be as independent as possible,” Watson said. “When we started therapy after Khalil’s injury, he needed significant assistance for any mobility. Now, he is progressively increasing the amount of movement he can do on his own. Every time I see him, he masters a new skill,” added Christina Smith, PT, DPT, NCS, physical therapist at Sheltering Arms Institute. Another one of Watson’s goals was to continue his education. In 2019, he began working on his associate degree in pre-social work from Reynolds Community College. “Helping people is something that I’m passionate about,” Watson said about why it was important for him to earn his degree. “Going through what I’ve had to go through and am still going through makes it easier for me to connect with people who are either going through a similar situation or worse.” Two of Watson’s therapists at Sheltering Arms Institute will help him utilize cutting-edge robotic technology to walk across the stage and receive his diploma, a walk seven years in the making. “Being able to walk across the stage will mean everything to me, especially since I wasn’t able to do so in high school. I can finally say all of my hard work has paid off,” Watson said. This fall, Watson plans to transfer to VCU to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work. About Sheltering Arms Institute Sheltering Arms Institute is a state-of-the-science physical rehabilitation hospital and network of outpatient centers that brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationally ranked programs and research of VCU Health through a joint venture. The Institute blends advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical treatment to create an innovative, transdisciplinary model of rehabilitative care that facilitates superior outcomes for patients. For more information, please visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com.
