Medicaid working to address changes to the ordering of medical equipment, supplies and appliances

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently required that the Mississippi Division of Medicaid (DOM) update its 2006 state plan language to comport with 42 C.F.R. § 440.70, which explicitly permits only a physician to order medical equipment, supplies and appliances. In May, pursuant to the CMS communication, DOM announced that it will no longer cover medical equipment, supplies and appliances ordered by non-physician practitioners effective Sept. 1, 2018.

DOM shares the concerns of providers who believe this interpretation of the CFR poses an additional barrier to needed services and care. The agency is actively working with CMS and other stakeholders to address compliance with 42 C.F.R. § 440.70 while ensuring that non-physician providers continue to serve as a vital access point for patients enrolled in the Mississippi Medicaid program. To that end, DOM is in discussions with the Mississippi Board of Nursing, the Mississippi Nurses Association, the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure, and the Mississippi Academy of Physician Assistants on how compliance might be achieved through collaborative agreements and/or standing orders between non-physician providers and physician providers.

For more information regarding the ordering requirements of medical equipment, supplies and appliances, please contact the Office of Medical Services at (601) 359-6150.

Posted May 31, 2018