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One of the most frustrating issues for providers is getting feedback from an insurer or a DME supplier that the information provided on the order is not sufficient. Then there is the request for specific verbiage in a provider’s note, after it has been written and signed! There are timeframe rules as to when the patient-provider face to face visit last took place. Then, of course, all of these documents need to get to the appropriate person to secure approval and payment for a patient’s Medicare orthotic equipment. The process can be quite a headache for everyone. Although the access to orthotic equipment has multiplied with the advent of consumer directed advertisement, this has only made the process of acquiring Medicare medical equipment more complicated. Typically a provider has a few companies they prefer to refer to. These referrals are based on ease of communication, efficient and reliable staff, hence requests for information do not flood a doctor’s inbox. Once a provider has utilized a DME provider’s service a few times, the communication is streamlined and the Medicare patient receives their medical equipment in much quicker fashion. Advertisers to the consumer all have different processes and different forms, which a doctor speeding through their day has little time and patience to translate. Hence it is important to get the message out to all patients that if they believe they would benefit from a back brace, or want to have that particular power scooter from a commercial, that they should call the doctor before calling the 1-800 number. Ultimately this will save the office much frustration and confusion, and get the patient evaluated in the office which will be required by Medicare in all cases, and then the proper requests can be made in the simplest and speediest fashion. The simplest procedure is to make sure the doctor has evaluated you, and agrees you require a particular piece of medical equipment. A proactive patient will bring the brochure or printout or even a website of something they would like prescribed. Their literature will state how to qualify, and what is needful in the doctor’s documentation that day in order to ensure that the Medicare medical equipment will be approved. The doctor may know a different Medicare equipment provider that will grant you the same piece of equipment in speedier fashion, and even have pre-printed Rx pads to make sure the order has all the necessary components. Never be afraid to ask you medical doctor to look at a product and consider it for you. You may be a trail blazer bringing the doctor’s attention to a new product he will continue to order going forward- but don’t be surprised if he says “We can give you one of those today right now!” Communication is key, and your doctor and Medicare equipment supplier might already be connected professionally to promote better health!
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