Hi everybody,

As I'm sure many of you are aware, I have been trying to get my insurance company (who claims to cover the Segway HT as medically necessary personal assistive mobility devices) to reimburse me for my Segway.  We are currently entering into an appeals process and I am trying to collect documentation regarding scientific, social, and most importantly, medical, impact of the Segway on the lives of those with disabilities.

I would like to ask anybody who would feel comfortable volunteering their stories or testimonials here to please do so.  I am an AVM (stroke) victim who has nerve damage at the brain stem / spinal cord, and so stories of that nature would necessarily be most poignant. Also, if you happen to have any supplemental material regarding this (clinical studies, medical journal communications, etc), please post those here, link them, or e-mail me (my address is given below).

If you would feel more comfortable e-mailing me instead of posting here, you may do so.  My e-mail address is terhorstj@gmail.com.  I will keep all submissions anonymous!

Thank you all,

Sincerely,

John

I too am in the process of getting medical insurance to reimburse for a Segway (with seat too!).  As predicted, the first response is a denial as not convered, because it is a "convenience".  I totally agree that it's most convenient not to keep breaking my foot and leg bones by using the Segway instead of pounding on them in daily walking.  That of couse, doesn't answer, for me, the question whether it's "medically necessary."    I've requested that my doctor send more documentation. 

I have an idea, prompted by terhorstj's request for testimonials.  I will be at Segfest with videocam on shoulder.  I was thinking we could capture you guys telling your stories on video--explaining how the Segway has improved your life --AND HEALTH!  With video we could show how you are able to maneuver on the Segway despite your underlying condition(s).

I'm thinking we could edit it onto a CD that we and others can use for education (the public, doctors, PTs, etc.) PR, and particularly to submit to insurance companies.   I think a video will get looked at more readily--and it's more powerful if we need to take this to the public for support.