The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Baltimore, has removed the 100% pre-payment review phase (formerly Phase 1) from the Prepayment Review and Prior Authorization for Power Mobility Devices demonstration, according to a news release from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Alexandria, Va. This removal was reportedly made in response to comments from APTA and other stakeholders.

As a result of the removal of this phase, APTA states that all modifications previously made to Phase 1 are no longer necessary or applicable. In addition, based on stakeholder feedback, CMS will allow suppliers to perform the administrative function of submitting the prior authorization request on behalf of the physician or treating practitioner. 

According to the release, the Prepayment Review and Prior Authorization for Power Mobility Devices and the Recovery Audit Prepayment Review demonstrations were delayed from their initial start date of January 1; they are expected to move forward on or after June 1. 

Additional information can be found at www.cms.gov/CERT/02_Demonstrations.asp.

Source: American Physical Therapy Association