BALTIMORE — Through a listserv message from the DME MACs last week, CMS released information on the use of certificates of medical necessity related to its new oxygen rules.
According to the message, there are four situations in which a new 36-month rental period can begin and a new initial CMN is required: the initial use of home oxygen; resuming use after a break in medical necessity during the 36-month rental period for at least 60 days; replacement because the patient has reached the five-year reasonable useful lifetime; and replacement due to irreparable damage, theft or loss of equipment.
CMS reminded providers that a written order is required when replacing equipment, and said the CMN can serve as a substitute for a written order if it meets the requirements for a detailed written order.
The changes will be incorporated in a future revision of the oxygen LCD, the announcement said.
View a PDF of the full message on the Jurisdiction A (NHIC) Web site.