CMS OKs continued use of CR modifier 

WASHINGTON – The DME MACs have published new directions that state for claims impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, HME providers can continue to use the CR modifier and COVID-19 narrative for ongoing rental and supplies/accessories after the public health emergency ends on May 11, AAHomecare reports. 

The instructions rescind the announcement in an MLN Connects in March that directed providers to stop using the CR modifier after the end of the PHE. 

“To address concerns for continued claims payment of DMEPOS items provided during the PHE and to identify claims for supplies and accessories associated with DMEPOS items initially dispensed, rendered or otherwise impacted by the PHE, the DME MACs are instructing suppliers to continue the use of the CR modifier (Catastrophe/disaster related) and COVID-19 narrative,” the instructions state. “The CR Modifier and COVID-19 narrative can continue to be used for any DMEPOS item (ongoing rentals) and related supplies/accessories where the base item was initially dispensed, rendered or otherwise impacted by the PHE (dates of service on March 1, 2020, through May 11, 2023) and specifically excluded from enforcement of the clinical indications of coverage referenced in Interim Final Rules CMS-1744-IFC and CMS-5531-IFC. The use of the CR modifier and COVID-19 narrative is intended to allow the DME MACs to implement new system editing for PHE-dispensed DMEPOS items and provide the ability to identify these claims for future review, if indicated.” 

AAHomecare said the new instructions follow numerous communications between the association and the DME MAC Advisory Councils.   

• Also last week: CMS published a “FAQ: CMS Waivers, Flexibilities and the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.” DME-related answers are on pages 6-7.