NGS (National Government Services) functions as the FI for VA Medicare policies. They have recently released a draft LCD that will be utilized as a review tool for outpatient therapy services provided by facilties.

The draft LCD has a comment period during which input is accepted and considered as the final format of the document is crafted. Providers in VA are encouraged to review this document and comment as appropriate. Any input will be shared with the APTA to be merged into a letter that will be sent to the Medical Director of NGS.

You may access the draft by going to:

http://www.empiremedicare.com/newypolicy/draft/dl26884_draft_lcd.htm

As you look over this document, a few things that you may want to direct your comments to are: the definition of physical therapist and physical therapist assistant and modified recertification requirements defined in the 2008 Medicare Fee Schedule final rule; exclusion of services provided by students as covered services; wound care coverage limitations, non-covered services of iontophoresis, and vestibular ocular reflex training.

This list is not exhaustive and you are encouraged to examine the LCD and make any comments you deem appropriate.

All comments can be sent to my attention at angelasbrooks@....

I need your comments no later than 2/28/2008. 

Thanks.

Angela S.Brooks,PT

VPTA Payer Relations Specialist