A Durable Medical Equipment Company (DME) is a concept that makes perfect sense from an entrepreneurial perspective in the healthcare sector. But, in order to begin billing Medicare and treating patients the right way, that is, legally, you’ll need to navigate DME provider accreditation requirements. Being accredited means your business is up to some very high quality, safety, and operational standards outlined by Medicare and its recognized accrediting bodies.
This guide lays out exactly what the accreditation process involves, how to get all of your ducks in a row, and what you need to do so that you are able to do everything by the book right from day one.
Understanding DME Accreditation
Accreditation is the official examination that your DME business has survived in meeting nationwide quality standards. “The majority of DME suppliers must first be accredited, which is a lengthy process,” she continued. Homecare Members are encouraged to check with Homecare for the latest information.HHS: Will CMS relax those requirements? Will certain DMEs be exempt from accreditation requirements? What’s the message you can provide to providers who don’t want to go through the process of accrediting until they determine if they’re going to continue providing services? CMS requires most DME suppliers, she confirmed.
When you discover the cold, hard facts of DME provider accreditation requirements, it’s critical to understand with precision that the goal is for your company to provide safe, effective, and ethical patient care – from product delivery to billing.
Step 1: Choose an Approved Accreditation Organization
The DME reviewing party will be an Accrediting Organization that has been approved by CMS to review DME:
- The Joint Commission
- ACHC – Healthcare Accreditation Commission
- Illinois-based is licensed and accredited by the Healthcare Quality Association of Accreditation (HQAA).
- Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP)
All accrediting organizations comply with CMS directives but may have slightly different scoring systems. You need to carry out some research and find the one that is suitable for your business type and within your budget.
Step 2: Meet Core Business and Facility Standards
To apply, your DME company needs to adhere to basic business and facility criteria. These include:
- A physical business address (no P.O. boxes are permitted).
- Displaying hours of operation accessible to patients and inspectors.
- Keeping current business and state licenses.
- By Written Guideline: for Patient Care, Delivery and Follow-up.
These are the basis of DME provider accreditation requirements; non-compliance can keep you from being accredited.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documentation
Documentation was stipulated as an important aspect of accreditation. You will need to demonstrate the following to accrediting bodies:
- Proof of liability insurance
- Employee References Checks And Training Files
- Shipping, servicing and return policies
- Documentation of Patient Discussions and Resolutions of Complaints
While they have an obvious role in supporting your accreditation, keeping these files organized also helps keep you compliant with ongoing DME compliance rules once you are accredited.
Step 4: Schedule and Pass the On-Site Survey
Once you have submitted your application and materials, the accrediting body will plan an on-site visit. A visiting auditor drops by your clinic to see if what’s laid out in your policies and procedures is actually being followed when it comes to staff conduct.
The inspector will:
- Look in your stockpile and on your shelves.
- Screen patient records and lists.
- Make sure that they have trained staff and are operating under internal policy.
Passing the site visit is one of the most important components in DME provider accreditation.
Step 5: Maintain Ongoing Compliance
It’s not a one-time process; it needs to be re-validated every three years (or however often your accrediting body stipulates) once established. To maintain good standing:
- Perform annual staff training and reviews.
- Keep documentation updated.
- Adhere to all DME compliance rules and Medicare standards.
- Keep current on any CMS changes to CMS regulations.
Ongoing compliance will also reduce the possibility of your DME business being penalised, audited or having its accreditation suspended
Why Accreditation Matters for Your DME Business
Accreditation shows patients you are a professional, establishes their trust, and allows you to qualify for Medicare reimbursement. Without it, your business is not lawful to provide durable medical equipment to Medicare patients.
Knowing the DME provider accreditation standards in advance means you can avoid expensive delays and know that your business meets the standards set by the healthcare industry.
Final Thoughts on DME Compliance Rules
DME Provider Accreditation Requirements at Durable Medical Equipment Companies: Meeting Medicare or private-duty durable medical equipment provider accreditation standards is a fact-dense but important exercise that protects patients and builds your business reputation. You will still be subject to all the other DME compliance rules once you are accredited, including recordkeeping, staff training and facility safety.
Summary: With some advanced planning and guidance from the pros at the DME Consultants, new businesses don’t have to break a sweat over accreditation and can ensure their business is set up for success by building the foundation.
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