Knee Orthoses - Final LCD and Response to Comments (RTC) Article Published

Joint DME MAC Publication

On December 11, 2025, the DME MACs published the following final Local Coverage Determination (LCD) and LCD-related Policy Article (PA):

  • Knee Orthoses LCD (L33318) and LCD-related PA (A52465)

The LCD incorporates finalized revisions, as a result of the LCD reconsideration process and written comments received during the comment period for the proposed LCD. The final LCD modifies the coverage criteria for knee orthoses with single or double upright, adjustable flexion and extension joint, medial-lateral and rotation control, with varus/valgus adjustment for the management or treatment of ambulatory Medicare beneficiaries with pain or reduction in mobility and/or function due to medial or lateral tibiofemoral osteoarthritis.

The posting of the final LCD marks the beginning of the 45-day notice period. The final LCD goes into effect for claims with dates of service on or after January 25, 2026.

Along with the final LCD and LCD-related PA, the DME MACs published a Response to Comments (RTC) Article which addresses the written comments received during the comment period. The RTC Article is as follows:

  • Response to Comments: Knee Orthoses - DL33318 (A60371)

Interested stakeholders may find the RTC document by searching for the article number in the Medicare Coverage Database. The RTC document is also located in the Associated Documents section of the LCD.

Please refer to each DME MAC website for additional information about policy development and access to the final LCD.

Last Updated Dec 11 , 2025