CMS boosts pay for antibody treatment in the home
By HME News Staff
Updated 10:19 AM CDT, Mon May 10, 2021
WASHINGTON – CMS has established a higher rate of $750 to administer monoclonal antibody treatment to Medicare beneficiaries with COVID-19 in their homes, including permanent residences or temporary lodgings.
The new rate accounts for the increased costs associated with the one-on-one nature of this care model and reflects additional information provided to CMS about providing these services in a safe and timely manner.
“CMS’s decision to increase reimbursement for home infusion of monoclonal antibody treatments recognizes the importance of administering these medications as rapidly as possible the patients who need them,” said Connie Sullivan, president and CEO of the National Home Infusion Association. “By recognizing the costs associated with providing these one-time infusions, CMS will help encourage equitable access to patients living in rural areas, as well as for those for whom transportation is a challenge. With the ability to receive treatment at home, patients can gain access to these important therapies in a matter that reduces the risk of exposure to the public and medical personnel.”
Overall, the national average payment rate has increased from $310 to $450 for most health care settings.
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