BALTIMORE — Maryland has implemented a groundbreaking new law known as the “So Everybody Can Move Act,” which mandates that the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and state commercial plans cover prosthetics specifically designed for physical activities such as running, biking, and swimming. This significant legislation was championed by John-Edward Heath, a Marine veteran and Paralympian who tragically lost his leg following a devastating encounter with a drunk driver.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the initiative, Heath remarked, “If I request a certain foot or a blade, I get that instantly because I’m a veteran. That’s how the ‘So Everybody Can Move’ initiative started because I realized not everybody had the same access that I do.” Over the course of the past year, Heath collaborated closely with Maryland legislators to secure the passage of this crucial law, ensuring that insurance providers extend coverage beyond just a single prosthetic for amputees.
Heath’s personal journey underscored the vital importance of having access to specialized prosthetics to maintain an active lifestyle post-amputation. Recounting his experiences, Heath shared, “I competed in Olympic weightlifting, I did powerlifting, bodybuilding, so I’ve been very active pretty much my entire life.” Without insurance coverage, many individuals faced exorbitant out-of-pocket expenses amounting to tens of thousands of dollars to acquire secondary prosthetics necessary for their physical pursuits. With the enactment of the new legislation effective as of January 1, 2025, individuals with limb loss now stand to benefit significantly from improved access to these essential prosthetic devices.
Looking ahead, Heath is advocating for expanded insurance coverage to include orthoses, external devices vital for individuals with mobility impairments, with the assistance of certified prosthetics and orthotics practitioner Cheryl Sachs. Sachs highlighted the pressing equity concerns, noting, “Usually insurance says you get one device for everyday use and that’s it. There’s an equity issue here where the law is essentially stating, because you have a mobility impairment, it’s not your right to be as physically active as your peers who don’t have those impairments.”
Dr. Andrew Bucknor, Heath’s physical therapist, also lends his voice to the cause, emphasizing the transformative impact that increased mobility can have on individuals. “Whether that’s a sport, whether that’s playing with your grandkids, playing with your children, and just navigating life,” Dr. Bucknor elaborated. Together, they are striving to ensure that all individuals, regardless of physical challenges, have the opportunity to lead active and fulfilling lives.
With the implementation of the “So Everybody Can Move Act,” Maryland stands at the forefront of promoting inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with limb loss, setting a powerful precedent for other states to follow. Through the concerted efforts of advocates like John-Edward Heath, Cheryl Sachs, and Dr. Andrew Bucknor, the landscape is gradually shifting to provide comprehensive support for those in need of specialized prosthetics and orthoses. As Heath aptly summarized, “
