CMS Sets Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Meeting

CMS’ recent coding decision on negative pressure wound therapy
will be the subject of a public meeting set for July 9, the agency
announced last week. The Medicare Improvements for Patients and
Providers Act required an evaluation of existing HCPCS codes for
NPWT devices “to ensure accurate reporting and billing for the
items and services under such codes,” according to CMS, which
partnered with the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality on a review.
At issue, whether to go with a single code or multiple codes for
NPWT.

Results of the study found no significant differences between
NPWT devices, however, and CMS has issued a preliminary decision
stating there is no need for multiple codes. The July 9 meeting
will allow stakeholders “an opportunity to provide input” on the
decision, CMS said.

For the AHRQ’s final report, go to www.ahrq.gov/clinic/techix.htm.

Earlier this year, the Office of Inspector General recommended
that reimbursement for NPWT be reduced. (See
OIG Recommends Reimbursement Reduction for NPWT, March 23.)