K-Level System and Rehabilitation Potential
K-levels are defined by Medicare based on an individual's ability or potential to ambulate and navigate their environment. Once it is determined in which K-level an individual resides, it can be determined which prosthetic components are covered by Medicare.
K Level Description Foot Ankle Assemblies Knee Units
K - 4 The patient has the ability or potential for prosthetic ambulation that exceeds basic ambulation skills, exhibiting high impact, stress, or energy levels - typical of the prosthetic demands of the child, active adult, or athlete.
Any ankle foot system appropriate
Any ankle knee system appropriate
K - 3 The patient has the ability or potential for ambulation with variable cadence - a typical community ambulator with the ability to traverse most environmental barriers and may have vocational, therapeutic, or exercise activity that demands prosthetic use beyond simple locomotion.
Flex foot and flex-walk systems, energy storing feet, multi-axial ankle/feet, or dynamic response feet
Fluid and pneumatic control knees
K - 2 This patient has the ability or potential for ambulation with the ability to traverse low-level environmental barriers such as curbs, stairs, or uneven surfaces - a typical community ambulator.
Flexible-keel feet and multi-axial ankle/feet
Single-axis, constant friction knee
K - 1 This patient has the ability or potential to use a prosthesis for transfers or ambulation on level surfaces at fixed cadence - a typical limited or unlimited household ambulator
External keel, SACH feet
or single axis ankle/feet
constant friction knee
K - O This patient does not have the ability or potential to ambulate or transfer safely with or without assistance and a prosthesis does not enhance their quality of life or mobility.
Not eligible for prosthesis
Not eligible for prosthesis
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