Jones Supports Prosthetic Advancements For Veterans

Statement

This month, Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) secured language which encourages the Department of Veterans Affairs to study and use advancements in prostheses, most notably, hydraulic technology. The language was included in the report on the Fiscal Year 2019 House VA Appropriations Bill. The language reads:

"Hydraulic prosthetic technology --The Committee is aware of recent developments in hydraulic prosthetic technology. Hydraulic designs fill the gap between standard myoelectric grippers and premium, bionic-like hand prostheses, offering cost-effective solutions with advanced motion control and flexibility. The Committee also understands that VA is limited to providing prosthetic devices that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, the Committee encourages the Department to monitor the development of this technology and, if approved by the FDA, to implement pilot programs that assess its benefits for veterans."

Congressman Jones released the following statement on the subject:

"I'm pleased to see the House Appropriations Committee highlight and address the needs of our veterans to have access to innovative prosthetic technologies," said Congressman Jones. "Hydraulic technology holds great promise for increasing the capabilities of available prosthetic devices, and allowing all amputees to have a device best suited to their needs."

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