SVS does not want to pay for prosthesis for Salzburg tobacconist

Following a serious circulatory disorder, Sonja A. had to have her lower left leg removed. Since then, she has been dependent on prostheses - but this does not mean that Sonja A. wants to go on disability pension: On the contrary, she has become self-employed and taken over a tobacconist's in Salzburg. This means that she has to stand and walk a lot. To avoid pain from pressure points, she switches between two prostheses several times a day. She now has to replace one of them after several years of use - but the Social Insurance Institution for the Self-Employed (SVS), which is responsible for this, refuses to cover the costs. One prosthesis would have to suffice, and when it is in need of repair, Sonja A. should simply use a wheelchair or a stool.

SVS puts obstacles in the way of the entrepreneur

In the view of Ombudsman Bernhard Achitz, the SVS must pay: "The law says that aids must be provided to the extent necessary. The SVS guidelines also state that a second prosthesis will be financed in certain cases. I can't understand why the SVS is putting such obstacles in the way of an entrepreneur who wants to work until retirement age. She needs the second prosthesis because of her medical and professional situation." Her prostheses require regular adjustments, which take two to three weeks each time. A wheelchair is not an option for her as she cannot move around the shop in it. A standing stool is also out of the question, as she is not supposed to sit for long periods of time.

"As much as I hate it, I love it," said Sonja A. in the ORF programme "Bürgeranwalt" on 25 October: "The prosthesis is an aid for me, but it's actually quality of life for me. Because it gives me mobility, I can move freely again, I can go to work on my own, I don't always need help. And yes, as I said, I'm passionate about being a tobacconist, but I can only really do that when I have my prostheses."

SVS agrees to another test

She still has her second prosthesis from her time as an employee - the insurance companies responsible at the time, ÖGK and PVA, had approved two prostheses without any problems. Ombudsman Achitz: "I am pleased to hear that the SVS is now re-examining the case. I hope it comes to a favourable conclusion for Sonja A. and pays for her second prosthesis."