The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) has created a lymphedema/compression accreditation option in response to new Medicare coverage.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Lymphedema Treatment Act final rule went into effect on Jan. 1 and covers compression garments and related accessories. The new BOC accreditation program is designed “to ensure current and interested durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthopedics and supplies (DMEPOS) providers can deliver and be reimbursed for treatment items,” BOC said in a Jan. 12 news announcement.
In a Nov. 9, 2023, edition of MLN Matters, CMS said the lymphedema benefit “would cover standard and custom-fitted compression garments and additional lymphedema compression treatment items to service a medical purpose.”
The new benefit covers the following products:
— Standard daytime gradient compression garments.
— Custom daytime gradient compression garments.
— Nighttime gradient compression garments.
— Gradient compression wraps.
— Accessories including zippers, linings, paddings, and fillers that are needed to effectively use a gradient compression garment or wrap.
— Compression bandaging systems and supplies.
BOC’s Chief Operating Officer, Matthew Gruskin, MBA, BOCO, BOCPD, CDME, said in the Jan. 12 announcement, “This recent development by CMS represents a significant victory for patients struggling with lymphedema and the healthcare providers dedicated to their care. We are proud to offer this new product and play our part in making a difference for those affected by lymphedema.”
BOC is hosting a complimentary Webinar for industry professionals, including clinicians, on Jan. 24. “Understanding the New CMS-Approved Lymphedema Compression Coverage” will review Medicare’s new policy and “explain the steps to become a DMEPOS supplier, which will enable providers to offer more comprehensive treatment to patients under the new CMS Product Category S04.”
The Webinar presenter is Steven Gray, CPED COTA/L, a consultant for Allstate DME Solutions. BOC described Gray as a certified pedorthist, certified occupational therapy assistant, and DMEPOS accreditation consultant.
