Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) and Respiratory Assist Device (RAD) Orders

The DME MACs recently published a clinician letter regarding masks for PAP and RAD devices. This letter gives direction regarding the Standard Written Order (SWO) requirements for PAP and RAD masks. Effective February 1, 2024, the SWO may now include a general description of the mask, such as:

  • CPAP Mask
  • Mask of choice
  • Mask - Fit to comfort
  • Mask - One per three months

This flexibility also extends to related cushions, pillows, and headgear. While the SWO must list all separately payable accessories provided, the description may be general such as those examples listed above. With this flexibility, checklists with each type of accessory (i.e. pillows, cushions, headgear) may be used. For more information, refer to the joint DME MAC publication Masks: Positive Airway Pressue Devices and Respiratory Assist Devices [PDF].

Last Updated Mar 19 , 2024