RATC Rehab Code Applications Get Cold Shoulder from CMS

The home health care industry should not expect any new HCPCS codes to result from applications filed this year by the Alexandria, Va.-based American Association for Homecare’s Re/hab and Assistive Technology Council (RATC). That was one of the subjects of the session entitled “Re/hab Issues Update,” presented by Rita Hostak, chair of the council.

Hostak, who also is vice president of government relations for Longmont, Colo.-based Sunrise Medical, told the audience that, earlier this year, RATC submitted 35 new code applications for power and manual wheelchairs, alternative positioning, seating and bath safety. Preliminary recommendations by the Baltimore-based Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services indicated that none of the applications would be approved this year, she added. However, approximately 50 new HCPCS codes for wheelchair accessories, requested by the DMERC medical directors, are likely to be added, though none of the codes are based on RATC’s submissions, Hostak said.

In other news, RATC is developing an addition to the AAHomecare Web site that is intended to keep rehabilitation technology companies up-to-date on Medicaid issues, Hostak told the audience. The new section, which could be operational in November, will feature a database that details proposed reimbursement changes in each state and a library of documents that AAHomecare members can download.

In addition, RATC will soon begin contacting AAHomecare members via e-mail or fax about proposed changes to the Medicaid programs in their states.

Hostak also noted that RATC is in the process of developing both a position paper on state licensure, or consumer protection, legislation and a draft legislative template for such initiatives. The RATC also has adopted a “Standards of Practice and Protocol for Rehabilitation Technology Companies,” she informed the audience. The non-binding document contains 15 recommendations for business practices.