billing pulsed lavage supplies

[Guest guest]

I would like to use pulsed lavage for wound care in an out-patient setting

(not hosp-based). The problem is how to bill for the supply costs. My

agency is not a DME supplier. The suggestion of adding a unit of procedure

time to cover the supply costs was discussed and rejected (probably

fraudulent). A meeting with our " preferred " DME supplier was fruitless.

Their billing expert stated that they would need all the documentation that I

could give them, that every claim would be reviewed and that they did not

want to carry these products. Does anyone have a suggestion? Thanks!

Judy Schaad, PT CWS

Centers for Rehab Services

Pittsburgh, PA

[Guest guest]

The manufacturer has stated that the supplies related to pulsed lavage are

reimbursable by medicare when documented as medically necessary. They

suggest using CPT code 99070 (supplies provided above those included with the

service) with HCSPCS code A4649 (surg. supply, misc.). I don't know anyone

in the area who has tried this route. I am most familiar with the acute care

setting where the supply costs are included in the DRG.

Judy Schaad

Pittsburgh, PA