News
Durable Medical Equipment regulations to become effective on July 2, 2006
(Juneau, Alaska) — Regulations relating to Medicaid reimbursement for Durable Medical Equipment (DME) including incontinence supplies were filed by the Lt. Governor on June 2, and will become effective on July 2. The Department of Health and Social Services adopted the regulations on May 8.
Incontinence supplies include adult diapers, washcloths, gloves, and bed pads. The new payment methodology for incontinence supplies is based on the State of Washington’s Medicaid reimbursement for these items plus an across-the-board adjustment of 20 percent to reflect higher costs in Alaska.
“The State of Washington conducted an extensive price survey when they developed their price list” Department of Health and Social Services Commissioner Karleen Jackson said. “It only makes sense for us to take advantage of their expertise while at the same time acknowledging that prices are significantly higher in Alaska.”
The regulations also require DME supplier to participate in the federal Medicare program in order to enroll as a Medicaid provider in Alaska.
The regulations are the latest in a series of reforms designed to control costs in the DME program that have increased dramatically in the past several years. The department received extensive public comments on the proposed regulations and continues to evaluate additional changes strengthening requirements for providers to obtain prior authorization and document medical necessity for some DME services.
Individuals interested in these regulations are urged to check the DHSS public notice web site for updated information on the proposed regulations: www.hss.state.ak.us/publicnotice/regulations.cfm.
