As of my last update in September 2021, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has not provided a specific list of items they will want to see in follow-up visits post accreditation for Durable Medical Equipment (DME) companies. However, I can provide you with a general outline of some common items that DME companies might need to address during follow-up visits to maintain compliance with CMS requirements.
1. Records and Documentation:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including medical necessity documentation, physician orders, and detailed equipment specifications.
- Ensure that billing and claims documentation align with CMS guidelines and support the services provided.
2. Quality Control and Maintenance:
- Demonstrate adherence to quality control measures for equipment maintenance and safety checks.
- Provide evidence of regular equipment inspections, calibration, and repairs as required.
3. Staff Training and Competency:
- Show evidence of staff training and competency assessments related to DME provision and patient care.
- Ensure that all staff members are familiar with CMS regulations and any changes to billing or documentation requirements.
4. Patient Education:
- Demonstrate how the DME company educates patients on proper equipment use, maintenance, and potential risks.
- Show that patients receive clear instructions on billing and cost-sharing responsibilities.
5. Compliance with Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs):
- Verify that DME provided aligns with CMS-approved Local Coverage Determinations for the specific region or state.
- Show compliance with any specific medical necessity requirements outlined in the LCDs.
6. Patient Satisfaction and Feedback:
- Gather and document patient satisfaction feedback to gauge the quality of services provided.
- Demonstrate efforts to address any complaints or concerns raised by patients.
7. Inventory Management:
- Maintain an accurate inventory of DME items and ensure timely restocking to meet patient needs.
- Show that the DME company has systems in place to track expiration dates of items and follow proper disposal procedures.
8. Fraud and Abuse Prevention:
- Demonstrate a commitment to preventing fraud, waste, and abuse in billing practices and DME provision.
- Implement internal controls to detect and prevent fraudulent activities.
Please note that specific requirements may vary based on the type of DME provided and the state or region in which the DME company operates. It is crucial for DME companies to stay informed about CMS updates and any changes to accreditation requirements to maintain compliance.
For the most current and accurate information on CMS requirements for DME companies, I recommend visiting the official CMS website or contacting CMS directly for guidance. CMS Follow-Up Visit Checklist for DME Companies