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DME

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

The Bureau of Human Services Licensing (BHSL) has made an additional update to the Documentation of Medical Evaluation (DME) forms. In Section 10, “Body Positioning / Movement – Level of Assistance for Ambulation or Transfers,” an option for “none” has been added.

Providers are advised to dispose of any previous versions of the updated forms. The most current versions are located below and will replace the forms on the BHSL website. You can differentiate the forms by looking at Section 10 or by referencing the date at the bottom right corner of each page, which will now be 7/25.

The PCH form is the HS 2136, and the ALR form is the HS 2148. Reminder: These forms must be utilized for all medical evaluations, effective July 1, 2025. The forms may also be used immediately.

Details of the forms were discussed during the June 12 webinar. A recording of the webinar will be posted on the BHSL website.

Additional questions regarding this should sent electronically.

On February 15, 2023, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released a proposed National Coverage Determination (NCD) that power seat elevation equipment on Group 3 power wheelchairs falls within the benefit category for durable medical equipment (DME).

CMS is proposing that the evidence is sufficient to determine that power seat elevation equipment is reasonable and necessary for individuals using power wheelchairs when all of the following conditions are met:

  • The individual performs weight bearing transfers to/from the power wheelchair while in the home, using either their upper extremities during a non-level (uneven) sitting transfer and/or their lower extremities during a sit to stand transfer. Transfers may be accomplished with or without caregiver assistance and/or the use of assistive equipment (e.g. sliding board, cane, crutch, walker); and,
  • The individual has undergone a specialty evaluation by a practitioner who has specific training and experience in rehabilitation wheelchair evaluations, such as a physical therapist (PT) or occupational therapist (OT), that assesses the individual’s ability to safely use the seat elevation equipment in the home.

The proposed NCD is open for public comment for 30 days. The 30-day comment period will close on March 17, 2023.