CMS issues new codes for diabetic shoe inserts

WASHINGTON - CMS has discontinued the HCPCS code for multiple-density inserts for diabetic shoes (A5502) and replaced it with three new codes. Industry sources say the impact of the change won't be clear until CMS establishes allowables. CMS defines the new codes by how they're formed: with external heat source (A5509), without external heat source (A5510), from model of patient's foot (A5511). Already, in its December 2001 bulletin, the Region B DMERC states that A5510 doesn't meet Medicare guidelines and will not be covered. CMS will continue to accept A5502 on claims with dates of service on or after Jan. 1, 2002, if they're received by March 31, 2002. HME AAHomecare heralds new RATC director ALEXANDRIA, Va. - AAHomecare has named Mary-Lacey Reuther as its new, full-time executive director of the Re/hab and Assistive Technology Council (RATC). Reuther replaces Dave Williams, director of government relations for Invacare. Williams will continue to serve on RATC's executive committee and AAHome-care's board of directors. Previously, Reuther served as deputy executive director for the Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA). HME Kaiser Permanente limits coverage for prostheses SAN FRANCISCO - Kaiser Permanente is no longer fully covering prostheses, according to The Associated Press. The HMO, which covers about one-third of Californians, will now require 20% co-pays for a handful of medical services and supplies, including prostheses and other DME. A prosthesis to restore basic mobility to someone who lost a leg below the knee can cost between $3,000 and $6,000. HME