Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers are to follow requirements for Standard Written Orders (SWOs):

• Keep a SWO from the treating practitioner on file
• Get the SWO before submitting a claim for all DMEPOS items
• Get the SWO before delivery for certain items
• Submit completed SWOs for all DMEPOS services billed if there’s an audit

Review 42 CFR 410.38 and MLN Matters Article SE20007 (PDF) to learn what elements to include on the order and related documentation:

• Beneficiary name or Medicare beneficiary identifier
• General description of the item
• Quantity you’ll dispense, if applicable
• Order date
• Treating practitioner name or national provider identifier
• Treating practitioner signature

More information:

• Standard Documentation Requirements for All Claims Submitted to DME Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) local coverage article
• Find SWO final rule FAQs on your MAC’s website: Noridian Jurisdiction (J) A and JD, CGS JB and JC

Source: CMS MLN Connects dated March 24, 2022