[emiller]

What if a patient is completely immobile and unable to see his/her dr for recertification of home oxygen? How do you handle a situation as such? Does medicare state what is needed from a recertification such as documentation?

[medlifeinla@aol.com]

we had the same question for Medicare. They told me to have the patient sign an ABN because Medicare will not cover if the patient doesn't see his doctor. This is crazy!!!

[Mardi]

If the patient is immobilzed, perhaps an in-home overnight oximetry on room air would suffice for the recert. The interpretation can be read by the physician, regardless of an office visit. If the patient qualifies the order would be for hours of sleep, but since the patient doesn't get out, the stationary concentrator would supply the 02 needs. Another option would be a home visit by a nurse practitioner (who has prescriptive rights.)