Small DME, Big Decision
Regarding the California court ruling on CMNs (HomeCare
Monday, July 12, 2004), WOW!! What a victory, even if it is
only a preliminary judgment. This could certainly set a huge
precedent and cost Medicare a fortune.
It used to be that claims payments were based on CMNs properly
done. Now a CMN alone is not enough on most things, and you have to
have access to additional documentation on everything, such as
oxygen, etc.
I do believe the crooks need to be eliminated — and there
are many out there — but all providers are being penalized.
CMS has quite a job ahead.
— Sarah Lott, president, Texas Star Medical Billing, Inc.,
Vidor, Texas
Shelly, What Sez You About This?
So, Mr. Prial, are you leaning toward one presidential
candidate? Just curious after reading your article (“Shelly
Sez,” August 2004).
— Vail Horton, Keen Mobility Co., Portland, Ore.
HomeCare columnist Shelly Prial re-sponds: I never decide
until almost the last minute for whom I will cast my vote. The
reason for that indecision is that I like to hear all of the
promises made and review what has or has not been accomplished by
each candidate. If the candidate has no political history, I try to
get information about their business and past activities.
I also write letters to local and national candidates and ask
about their thoughts to address the problems facing our industry.
In this fashion, I have started a dialog, and hopefully, this will
enable me to deliver our industry's message.
Note: For a rundown of the presidential candidates' health
plans — and how they might affect HME — see page
24.
E-mail your letters to Editor-in-Chief Gail Walker at
gwalker@primediabusiness.com.
