Physician Signature Required on Prescriptions for Medical Equipment

Washington State Health Care Authority sent this bulletin at 01/03/2019 09:32 AM PST

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Physician signature required on prescriptions for medical equipment

Effective January 1, 2019, the Health Care Authority (HCA) requires prescriptions for home health services and medical equipment be signed by a physician. This is required to meet the federal regulations published by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services (CMS) in 2018. Advanced nurse practitioners (ARNPs) or physician assistants (PAs) ordering home health services or medical equipment must have a physician’s signature on their requested order.

This applies to medical equipment (Chapter 182-543 WAC) dispensed at a pharmacy and includes but is not limited to: diabetic supplies (glucose monitors, glucose test strips, lancet devices, lancets, pen needles, and syringes), inhalation masks and spacers.

Pharmacy Claims will not reject or stop for a physician’s signature; however, pharmacies will be held accountable for compliance with this requirement.

For questions please contact AppleHealthPharmacyPolicy@hca.wa.gov

About the Health Care Authority (HCA)

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is committed to whole-person care, integrating physical health and behavioral health services for better results and healthier residents.

HCA purchases health care for more than two million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program, and, beginning in 2020, the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) Program. As the largest health care purchaser in the state, we lead the effort to transform health care, helping ensure Washington residents have access to better health and better care at a lower cost.

Please do not reply directly to this message. For more information, visit the HCA website, where you'll also find contact information.

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The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) complies with all applicable federal and Washington state civil rights laws and is committed to providing equal access to our services. Visit HCA’s website to view complete nondiscrimination statements.