Results of the Wachovia 2008 Sleep Survey — a partnership with HME Business, Respiratory Management’s sister publication — reveal a slowdown of the sleep market. According to the study, HME providers expect their sleep revenue to grow by 10 percent in the next 12 months vs. 11 percent last year.
By Elisha Bury
Whether you’re currently carrying liquid oxygen or you’re in one of the metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in the competitive bidding program, chances are you’re examining the viability of liquid. While there are many clinical benefits of this modality, especially from a patient standpoint, traditionally, the costs for providing liquid have been prohibitive. If you’re reconsidering liquid or just looking for a way to stay profitable, here are some things you should know.
Funding Focus
By Kelly Riley
Home sleep testing, also known as portable monitoring, has been around for years, yet the recent National Coverage Decision (NCD) memo issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has many folks squirming. The NCD allows payment for CPAP devices based on unattended studies vs. traditional in-lab studies. Most HME providers want to be ready, but without a published Local Coverage Determination (LCD) from the Medicare Administrative Carriers (MAC) medical directors, they are hesitant to set company policy, communicate to referral sources or develop marketing plans.