Not only should a Durable Medical Equipment business focus on patient-oriented tasks, but also on keeping and maintaining the standards according to the industry regulations. It is one of the hardest includes getting & keeping a dme accreditation, something mandatory for any business wanting to show their customers and insurance, regulators they are at least as good, if not better than industry tops.
Knowing how to do so and doing it within the requirements are important if you want to stand out in this saturated DME market. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Step 1: Understand What DME Accreditation Means
Dme certified means that your DME has been officially recognized by a CMS-accredited accrediting organization for meeting stringent standards of quality and safety. It is the way you are legally permitted to bill Medicare (and that private payers may give you a hard time for not having).
Accreditation confirms that your business:
- Operates ethically and professionally.
- I know what I want: quality products, customer service.
- Meets Medicare Supplier Standards.
- Maintains proper documentation and records.
So, checking the photo requirements to meet document methods gives you an overview. By now, you know immediately what is required and can correct any mistakes made in applications or renewal steps.
Step 2: Choose the Right Accrediting Organization
Dme certified means that your DME has been officially recognized by a CMS-accredited accrediting organization for meeting stringent standards of quality and safety. It is the way you are legally permitted to bill Medicare (and that private payers may give you a hard time for not having).
Accreditation confirms that your business:
- Operates ethically and professionally.
- I know what I want: quality products, customer service.
- Meets Medicare Supplier Standards.
- Maintains proper documentation and records.
So, checking the photo requirements to meet document methods gives you an overview. By now, you know immediately what is required and can correct any mistakes made in applications or renewal steps.
Step 3: Prepare Your Business for the Survey
Or in other words, you do not want the accrediting organization to conduct a verification (survey) while your operations are still in the process of becoming compliant. Preparation includes:
- Location with Signage
- Likewise, prominently present the hours of operation as shown.
- Training employees in product knowledge and safety, and compliance.
- Keeping records and manuals up-to-date.
They will often ask to see your data on delivery (PCs), billing, patient education, and equipment service.
Step 4: Train Your Staff for Compliance
One of the biggest keys to passing accreditation is your team. Employees should know about corporate policy, show product knowledge, and be able to talk about patient care processes.
Continuous training also guarantees that everyone is constantly on their toes, not just for the accreditation survey or other audits, but beyond renewal.
Step 5: Maintain Compliance Year-Round
Accreditation is something that must be earned, and it does not stop when an institution first achieves it. However, to have them awarded, you must still adhere to the standards; otherwise, the award ceases. This means:
- Conducting internal audits regularly.
- Updating policies when regulations change.
- Record all interactions with the customer and services provided.
- Monitoring equipment quality and safety.
Most of the DME owners who were very successful decided to set up a compliance calendar with the same dates that they have to do for updates, happen if they had policy or any sort of staff training that needs to be reviewed, these items are all on there
Step 6: Prepare for Renewal Early
Re-accreditation lasts three years as well; however, the renewal process can take months. Learn to Prepare Early, Avoid Certification Gaps
Renewal preparation includes:
- Reviewing the latest industry guidelines.
- Updating company records and documentation.
- Making sure certifications are up to date for all staff.
Failure to renew on time may mean that you are no longer able to bill Medicare, and other insurers will be less likely to have a good relationship with your practice.
Step 7: Use Accreditation as a Marketing Advantage
Once you get accredited, make sure to add that in your marketing stuff and on the website, also in all client proposals. It demonstrates that you are reliable and professional, and can help to put you one step ahead of your competitors.
When structuring your referral network, work together with both doctors and home health care companies or hospitals. In other words, patients and professionals alike are increasingly likely to choose an accredited company over a non-accredited one.
Final Thoughts
We all know that dme accreditation is the law, but responsible DME owners know it is more than just compliance. Doing your part to be prepared, train your staff, and comply year-round will not only protect the business.
For professional help to get you through the process, please visit TheDME Consultants and receive expert advice on accreditation from beginning to end
