If your mobility assistive equipment (Cane, crutches,
walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) Orders/prescriptions
are being returned due to incomplete information. This information is for right
for you.
This article is solely an educational guide to improve
compliance with documentation requirements for the face-to-face examination
that occurs prior to the physician or treating practitioner ordering a mobility
assistive equipment (MAE) for their patients.
The
prescription or justification must clearly document;
Ø The
patient’s functional status with attention to conditions affecting the
beneficiary’s mobility and their ability to perform activities of daily living
within the home. Mobility related diagnosis are needed to justify the medical
necessity of the MAE.
Ø The
beneficiary has a mobility limitation that significantly impairs his/her
ability to participate in one or more mobility-related activities of daily
living (MRADL) in the home. The MRADLs to be considered are toileting, feeding,
dressing, grooming, and bathing performed in customary locations in the home.
A
mobility limitation is one that:
ü Prevents
the beneficiary from accomplishing the MRADL entirely, or,
ü Places
the beneficiary at reasonably determined heightened risk of morbidity or
mortality secondary to the attempts to perform an MRADL; or,
ü Prevents
the beneficiary from completing the MRADL within a reasonable time frame;
Ø The
beneficiary is able to safely use the MAE.
Ø The
functional mobility deficit can be sufficiently resolved by using a MAE.
Accurate and complete documentation regarding the face-to-face examination
is extremely important to ensure the patient receives the appropriate MAE.
Source: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
