AAH: Delay PMD demo

WASHINGTON - AAHomecare on Monday called for CMS to delay a PMD demo scheduled to start Sept. 1 because the agency still hasn't released a final version of instructions.

“AAHomecare is eager to work with CMS, but is calling for an implementation delay until 30 days after a final version of the operational guide is published on the CMS website to ensure that providers, physicians and beneficiaries have been educated on all aspects of the program,” it stated in a press release.

The three-year demo, which requires providers to go through a prior authorization process for all PMD claims, is scheduled to start Sept. 1 in seven states.

AAHomecare is also concerned that the PMD demo is scheduled to start without a clinical template to help referring physicians document a patient's medical need for mobility assistance.

“AAHomecare and other stakeholders support prior authorization if the program is properly designed,” the association stated. “However, there is widespread concern that the CMS program fails to include a clinical template to help physicians document a patient's medical need for mobility assistance—a significant factor that will undoubtedly affect patient care.”

AAHomecare believes if CMS moves forward with the demo as planned patients will be at great risk.

“Power wheelchairs can't be delivered until after prior authorization is received, a change that will delay deliveries,” the association stated. “Some Medicare beneficiaries may never be approved.”

CMS has scheduled a Special Open Door Forum tomorrow from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST to discuss the PMD demo. To tune in, dial 800-837-1935 and provide the conference ID 25376830.