CMS Updates DME Authorization Lists

CMS/Medicare

WASHINGTON—Earlier this week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) updated several lists that cover durable medical equipment (DME) reimbursement authorization. The three lists updated were the required face-to-face and written order prior to delivery list (Required F2F/WOPD), the required prior authorization list and the master list. 

The required face-to-face and written order list is a Medicare document for durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) that details specific items needing a practitioner’s in-person evaluation within a certain time period and require a detailed order before the item is delivered to the patient. The required prior authorization list is a list of specific items individuals need pre-approval from their insurance companies in order to receive them. The master list is a compiled list of DMEPOS items that CMS has identified as potential vulnerabilities to the Medicare Trust Fund due to factors like high cost or fraud/waste.

Beginning April 13, 2026, items added to the required F2F/WOPD list and required prior authorization list will need to begin meeting the new requirements.

The following updates were added to the DMEPOS lists:

Required F2F/WOPD List:

  • Stationary and Portable Oxygen Systems (E0424, E0431, E0433, E0434, E0439)
  • Oxygen Concentrators (E1390, E1391, E1392)
     

Beginning on April 13, these items will be required to have a documented face to face encounter within six months prior to the written order.

Required Prior Authorization List:

  • Orthoses (L0651, L1844, L1846, L1852, L1932)
  • Pneumatic compression devices (E0651, E0652)
     

Beginning on April 13, prior authorization will be implemented nationwide for the items listed. CMS will publish sub regulatory guidance regarding the implementation of the items to the program.

Master List (items that are eligible to be added to a required list):

  • Continuous glucose monitor supplies (A4238, E2103)
  • Wound dressings (A6214, A6233)
  • Compression garments and accessories (A6583, A6593)
  • Respiratory and airway clearance devices (A7025, E0468, E0469)
  • Therapeutic electrical & neuromodulation devices (E0743, E0762)
  • Light therapy (E0691)
  • Power mobility accessories (E2377)
  • Orthotic and prosthetic additions (L1499, L2999, L5783, L5841)
  • Misc DME (E1399)

CMS noted there is no immediate direct impact to suppliers for items being added to the Master List; inclusion simply means the items are eligible to be added to the F2F/WOPD Required List and/or Prior Authorization Required List in the future. 

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