What does the repeal of the oxygen title transfer mean to HME providers? In an effort to get the answer to this question and others, AAHomecare submitted a list of nearly two dozen questions to CMS. The questions address concerns related to the title transfer and the oxygen rental cap implementation, which is mandated by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA). According to an AAHomecare spokesperson, no answers have yet been given, but a meeting with CMS is being scheduled. 

Questions include:
• How will CMS develop appropriate payment amounts for episodes of maintenance of oxygen equipment?
• CMS currently pays one month’s rental payment for loaner equipment when the beneficiary-owned equipment is repaired. Will CMS apply this policy to oxygen equipment after payment for the equipment has capped?
• How does CMS plan to reimburse for parts and labor after the rental period has ended?

The questions were collected after sorting through numerous inquiries that AAHomecare received from members seeking clarification and guidance. AAHomecare officials have vowed to keep members updated with any response or guidance received from CMS. To view the questions submitted to CMS, visit the AAHomecare Web site.