Medicare reimbursement for wound care products

[AnnemRN]

Does anyone know where I can find out which wound care products are covered by Medicare? Specifically does anyone know if autolytic debriders are covered? Thanks

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

Did you see the stickie: Wound Care Words Of Wisdom

Also: Understanding Medicare Homecare Regulations

[AnnemRN]

Thanks for the info, so my next question is - if the agents are not covered then do you have the patient order and pay for them? The agency where I work previously just carried and issued them as part of the package but, that's not the case where I work now.

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

If the agents are not covered or require a RX, I explain that to the patient and contact a reliable DME company in patients area giving them product name, amount needed, wound care description and fax any scrpits I have.. They can explain cost and arrange payment options, leaving the nurse free from that task.

My homecare agency has a dedicated supplier, Sterling Medical, that we use for all Medicare patients --even have dedicated line just for our agency. Managed care patients, use DME company contracted with insurer (utilize those most reliable). Private pay patients or charity care, our hospital usually provides 3-4day supply--try to get my staff to contact patient to inform them of need to purchase supply prior to RN arrival.

Neediest clients with true financial need, we pick up wound care supplies as part of charity care (need to show that as part of Medicare COP). We try to get them involved with state health program or medical assistance ASAP.