Pro-Tech Medical

The Helix Curved Stair Lift System by Harmar Mobility - Installed by ProTech Home Medical Remodeling

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Tue, 23 Jul 2013 20:08:00 +0000

The Helix Curved Stair Lift by Harmar Mobility is the perfect solution for your safety needs. Don't risk a fall! Navigate your stairs from the comfort of your own chair. Choose your color to match your home decor.

ProTech Medical and ProTech Home Medical Remodeling are your local, Authorized Dealer for Harmar Mobility. ProTech Medical sells stair lifts in Nashville, Franklin, Columbia, Murfreesboro, Shelbyville, and other areas located in Middle Tennessee.

Call us today for a free assessment - 800-722-7313 or visit us at protechdelivers.com.

CL#7415

ProTech Medical - An Authorized Dealer for Best Bath Systems

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 15:25:00 +0000

ProTech Medical is your Middle Tennessee dealer for Best Bath Systems. Best Bath is an industry leader in safe bathing products including barrier-free showers and walk-in tubs. Located in Caldwell, Idaho, Best Bath produces an All-American Made product.

Each shower, walk-in tub, and pan system is pre-leveled at the factory eliminating floor modifications and leveling headaches. Innovative leak-proof joints create trouble-free installations and add value with reduced construction requirements.

Best Bath's composite wall system incorporates a plywood core in every unit. This solid wall system enables total freedom in placement of all accessories including seats and safety bars to meet individual needs. Best Bath uses authentic ceramic tile to create their production process. Custom tile colors are available for each job. You design it, Best Bath builds it!

If you live in Middle Tennessee, stop by our showroom to see how safe bathing can help you. ProTech Medical is located in Columbia, Tennessee - 1100 Hatcher Lane, Columbia - 38401. Call our toll free number 1-800-722-7313 or visit our website - protechdelivers.com for directions.

ProTech Medical provides both sales and installation services. Some products are covered by private insurances such as Blue-Cross/Blue-Shield and by some Veteran's Administration grants. Call today for more details.

CPAP Supply Program - ProTech Medical in Tennessee

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Wed, 30 May 2012 16:08:00 +0000

If you're a sleep therapy customer, you know a great night's sleep can be dependent on your supplies including mask, tubing, and headgear.

The CPAP Clinic at ProTech Medical makes it easy to get the supplies you need for a restful sleep at night. Your supplies can be conveniently shipped to your home and billed to your insurance. Make it easy on yourself. Contact The CPAP Clinic at ProTech to find out how you can get your CPAP supplies on a regular schedule according to your insurance coverage.

Call 1-800-722-7313 today for a complimentary assessment of your current needs. The CPAP Clinic at ProTech is an official dealer for RESMED, Respironics, Fisher Paykel, and more. Insurances include Medicare, BC/BS, HealthSpring, and many, many more. Don't delay, call today!

For more products, visit our website - protechdelivers.com.

Quantum Q6 Edge by Pride Mobility, ProTech Medical

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Wed, 16 May 2012 13:57:00 +0000

One of the most recommended chairs on the market, the Quantum Q6 Edge by Pride Mobility, offers multiple seating options, ATX Suspension, and a Mid-Wheel 6 drive design. The Q6 Edge base can accommodate power recline, power tilt, power legs, and elevating options. The large center tire, 14", allows multiple terrain options for the end user.

The 20" turning radius on the Q6 Edge, is an advantage for users needing to turn around in tight spaces. The overall length, 35.5", and the overall width, 24", provide a solid base for use of multiple power options while providing a tight floor footprint for small spaces.

ProTech Medical is an Authorized Dealer for Pride Mobility and the Quantum product line. Our ATP on staff will work with each end user to identify the appropriate options for the chair. All Quantum customers receive an in-home assessment with space measurements and complete training on the multiple power options.

ProTech Medical will work with your physician to provide coverage for insurance. The Q6 Edge is covered by most insurances including Medicare, BC/BS, HealthSpring, and more.

Call ProTech Medical today to see if the Quantum Q6 Edge is the right chair for you, 1-800-722-7313.

For more products by ProTech Medical, visit protechdelivers.com.

HARMAR - SL600 Pinnacle Premium Stair Lift - ProTech Medical

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Wed, 09 May 2012 14:11:00 +0000

The SL600 Pinnacle Premium Stair Lift - is the narrowest stair lift in the industry. At only 11" when folded, the SL600 provides easy access to your stairs for while providing a reliable access option.

ProTech Medical is an Authorized Provider for the Harmar stair lift product line. If you live in Middle Tennessee, ProTech Medical can provide sales, installation, and service for your interior mobility designs.

The SL600 stair lift is an excellent choice for home owners with limited access to a second level in their home. The lift has numerous benefits including a height adjustable seat, lightweight design - only 165 lbs, and a 3-yr warranty on components. ProTech Medical will provide service for the your SL600 Pinnacle Premium Stair Lift.

For more information on the SL600, visit Harmar.com. To find out more about products offered by ProTech Medical, visit protechdelivers.com.

Call ProTech Medical at 1-800-722-7313 to schedule a complimentary home assessment or stop by one of our showrooms in Columbia or Shelbyville.

ATTENTION: If you are a Veteran, you may qualify for this product through your VA benefits. Contact us today for more details!

HARMAR AL600 Hybrid Lift - ProTech Medical

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:44:00 +0000

The AL600 manufactured by HARMAR is the perfect solution for mini-vans and some SUV's. The platform lift is stored inside the vehicle giving your mobility product maximum protection from the elements.

To load your mobility equipment, a simple handcontrol will guide the platform from the rear of your vehicle to the ground. There, it's only a few simple steps to secure your equipment to be loaded into your vehicle.

The AL600 Hybrid Lift has a lifting capacity of 350lbs. Minimum space requirements include 32" of headroom and 46.5" of depth.

The AL600 is Made In America at the HARMAR plant in Sarasota, Florida.

ProTech Medical is an Authorized Dealer for HARMAR lifts and products. Our certified technicians will install the lift for you and provide any service after the sale. The AL600 has a three year transferable warranty.

If you are a Veteran, this lift may be available to your through your VA benefits. Contact Rodney McCarthy, ATP, CEAC for more details. 1-800-722-7313

ProTech Medical has been serving Middle Tennessee since 1983. For more products and information, including Google Maps directions to one of our locations, visit www.protechdelivers.com.

HARMAR AL100 Scooter Lift - Middle Tennessee Provider - ProTech Medical

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:46:00 +0000

The Harmar, AL100, universal scooter lift is the perfect solution for your transportation needs.

The AL100 carries virtually all scooters. Secure your scooter with an automatic lock down arm that is easy to operate. The 27.5" x 39" aluminum deck, adjustable cradle extends up to 46" and can accommodate scooters up to 42" wheelbase. A manual crank backup and license plate mount are included.

Other options include a swing-away assist, battery back up, and cover.

Visit harmar.com today to configure your solution.

** If you are a Veteran, you may qualify for this product through the VA. ProTech Medical is an official provider for VA mobility products.

Call 1-800-722-7313 for more information.

ProTech Medical is an authorized dealer for Harmar products in the Middle Tennessee area.

2010 Jazzy Select Elite by Pride Mobility, Medicare Approved Power Chair

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 20:41:00 +0000

If you're looking for a Medicare Approved power chair, check out the 2010 Jazzy Select Elite by Pride Mobility.

The Jazzy Select Elite has a new, sleeker design for 2010. Watch the video to see the differences including advantages and disadvantages to the Jazzy Select.

To find out how to qualify for a Jazzy Select Elite, contact ProTech Medical - 1-800-722-7313.

ProTech Medical is located in Middle Tennessee with offices in Columbia and Shelbyville.

Jazzy Select, Medicare Approved Power Chair - 2010 Model

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 13:28:00 +0000

The 2010, Jazzy Select power chair by Pride Mobility, has several new features including a larger foot plate, a new seat release, and new tires.

ProTech Medical can provide your Medicare approved power chair. Serving Middle Tennessee since 1983, ProTech Medical has the expertise to work with your insurance to make sure you receive the mobility independence you need.

ProTech Medical is an authorized dealer for Pride Mobility products. Pride Mobility manufactures the Jazzy Select power chair as well as SilverStar Lifts & Ramps.

Call 1-800-722-7313 for a free mobility consulation or visit www.protechdelivers.com.

You can watch more mobility videos at www.youtube.com/protechmedical.

NEW DESIGN! 2010 - Jazzy Select Power Chair

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:04:00 +0000

ProTech Medical has the new, 2010 Jazzy Select power chair. If you live in Middle Tennessee, ProTech Medical can help you gain the mobility independence you need with the best power chair on the market, the Jazzy Select power chair.

The 2010 version of the Jazzy Select, has a larger foot platform to increase your ability to achieve comfort. The new design also features black tires and silver rims enhancing the already sleek design.

ProTech Medical provides Jazzy Select power chairs in Nashville, Columbia, Shelbyville, and surrounding cities. Financing is available to approved applicants.

Contact ProTech Medical for a free demonstration! Call 800-722-7313 or visit www.protechdelivers.com.

CPAP Equipment and Supplies - Columbia, TN & Shelbyville, TN

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 20:26:00 +0000

If you're looking for CPAP equipment and supplies in Columbia or Shelbyville, Tennessee, you're in luck!

The CPAP Clinic at Pro-Tech can provide your sleep therapy supplies, equipment, and home oxygen therapy. Operated by a Registered Respiratory Therapist, the CPAP Clinic at Pro-Tech offers convenient hours including an after hours program for working customers.

The CPAP Clinic at Pro-Tech offers the best in CPAP equipment and supplies including manufacturers like Respironics, Resmed, and Fisher & Paykel.

Contact Donnie Springer, RRT, for a free sleep evaluation 1-800-722-7313.

www.IHelpYouSleep.com

Respironics 450P CPAP Machine With C-Flex and SD Card

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:58:00 +0000

Contact The CPAP Clinic at ProTech for more information - 1-800-722-7313.

Free Hospital Delivery Service

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:48:00 +0000

A stay at the hospital can come when you least expect it. That's why at ProTech Medical, we help make things convenient.

ProTech Medical provides complimentary hospital service including equipment delivery to the hospital and to your home. The most common items delivered to the hospital include rolling walkers, bedside commodes, home oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, and nebulizers. If you're in need of more, ProTech Medical will deliver to your home.

Visit our website for a list of products and services we can provide, www.protechdelivers.com.

Make sure to mention to your case manager at the hospital that you want ProTech Medical!

Invacare At'm Power Chair

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:04:00 +0000

The Invacare AT'M is the easiest, folding power chair on the market. Designed much like a lawn chair, the lightweight frame easily folds for convenient storage in just about any vehicle. It's so simple to take a part, most people do it in less than 60 seconds. There's no lifts, tools - just three easy pieces to assemble. The battery charge lasts for 10-12 miles. The total weight of the chair assembled is 74 lbs..

Call Rodney at ProTech Medical for a quote! 1-800-722-7313

We deliver for free in Middle Tennessee! Local service and repair.

How To Use Your Nebulizer, Tips For Troubleshooting

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:55:00 +0000

Donnie Springer, Registered Respiratory Therapist with Pro-Tech Medical, provides instruction on how to use your nebulizer machine. Donnie demonstrates how to add your medicine, tips on inhaling, and troubleshooting your machine.

Donnie Springer has over 15 years experience in respiratory care. If you live in Middle Tennessee, let Pro-Tech Medical be your respiratory company. Pro-Tech Medical specializes in home oxygen, nebulizers, and sleep therapy. For more products and services, visit http://protechdelivers.com.

Medicare Power Chairs In Nashville, TN

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:01:00 +0000

Are you looking for Medicare power chairs or electric wheelchairs in Nashville, TN? ProTech Medical is an accreditated provider for Medicare home medical equipment and supplies.

Many people find that using a local service to Nashville provides a sense of security knowing if there are any problems with your power chair or scooter, ProTech Medical will be there for repairs and local service.

At ProTech Medical, our Powered Mobility Technicians have extensive training in servicing a wide variety of chairs. Our "Mobility Shop" is recognized as one of the leaders in powered mobility service in Middle Tennessee according to 2008 Medicare reports.

Let ProTech Medical help you gain the independence you need through a Medicare approved power chair or scooter.

For videos on our power chairs, visit http://youtube.com/protechmedical.

To view more Medicare covered products, visit http://protechdelivers.com.

ProTech Medical has a certified, Medicare provider on staff. Rodney McCarthy, ATP, is nationally recognized by RESNA as a leader in powered mobility seating.

Call 1-800-722-7313 for a free in-home evaluation to see if a Medicare power chair is right for you.

Does Your Home Medical Equipment In Franklin, TN Need Some TLC?

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:33:00 +0000

If you're a resident of Williamson County or Franklin and in need of some TLC for your home medical equipment or supplies, let ProTech Medical help!

As one of the most trusted medical supply companies in Middle Tennessee, ProTech Medical has over 26 years of experience serving people needing home medical equipment and supplies.

Our experienced team of clinicians serves residents in Williamson County on a frequent basis. Whether it's equipment such as home oxygen therapy, nebulizers, power chairs, wheelchairs, and others, ProTech Medical will provide fast, convenient service.

ProTech Medical can deliver your medical equipment at any hospital in Middle Tennessee including Williamson Medical Center in Franklin. Our friendly technicians will make sure your equipment works for you.

ProTech Medical is not just with you at the point of delivery, we're there 24/7 to make sure you can reach us when unanticipated occassions arise. Our staff is on-call during nights and weekends.

Visit our website, http://protechdelivers.com, for more medical supplies offered in the Franklin, TN area.

TOLL FREE - 1-800-722-7313

If It's A Medical Necessity & Service In Columbia, Shelbyville, Or Middle Tennessee, We Got You Covered

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:00:00 +0000

Pro-Tech Medical can provide your medical necessities and services in Middle Tennessee, Columbia, Shelbyville, and even Nashville.

Most home medical supplies are covered by Medicare and private insurances such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthSpring, and others. To qualify as a medical necessity and/or service, your insurance may ask your medical supply company to certify eligibility by submitting paperwork confirmed by a doctor. Often times, this paper work is known as a Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN).

Your physician will need to be aware of the criteria when ordering your medical supply or equipment based upon your insurance. For requirements and eligibility regarding supplies to be deemed as medical necessary, contact Pro-Tech Medical - 1-800-722-7313.

The most common products deemed as medically necessary include home oxygen therapy, sleep therapy, nebulizers, wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, cushions, power chairs, scooters, and more. For a complete list of products provided by Pro-Tech Medical, visit http://www.protechdelivers.com/.

Are You Searching For Medical Supply in Columbia or Shelbyville TN?

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:47:00 +0000

Look no further! Pro-Tech Medical provides medical supply products in Columbia and Shelbyville, Tennessee.

Serving Middle Tennessee since 1983, Pro-Tech Medical has long been a leader in medical supply products including home medical equipment and service. With retail locations for medical supplies in both Columbia and Shelbyville, Tennessee, Pro-Tech Medical is a must stop when searching for home medical products and equipment.

To find medical supplies in Columbia, visit : Pro-Tech Medical, 1100 Hatcher Lane, Columbia, TN 38401

To find medical supplies in Shelbyville, visit : Pro-Tech Medical, 1608 North Main Street, Suite A, Shelbyville, TN 37160

A toll free number for medical supplies in Middle Tennessee is available - 1-800-722-7313.

Try the Pro-Tech Medical website to begin your search - www.protechdelivers.com.

Replacing Your Jazzy 1103 Ultra? There's Something You Should Know

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:45:00 +0000

Jazzy Select 6 Ultra

Jazzy 1103 Ultra (now only available as a Quantum 1103 Ultra)

For many people who previously bought a Jazzy 1103 Ultra, they're finding out it's not so easy finding one again. Per Medicare, a power chair customer is qualified to replace their current chair if they've had it for at least five years and it has become too expensive to fix. With the severe cutbacks power chair providers have suffered over the past several years, industry manufacturers have been forced to follow suit.

Previously, Pride Mobility, the manufacturer of the 1103 Ultra, was able to offer the chair in their consumer line of products known as the Jazzy series. The 1103 Ultra was the option in the Jazzy series for consumers needing a seat elevating option. Because the seat elevating option is not covered by Medicare, only those who could afford an out-of-pocket expense selected the 1103.

Now, the 1103 Ultra has changed labels to the Quantum Series, Pride Mobility's rehab product line. Replacing the 1103 Ultra in the Jazzy series, is the Jazzy Select 6 Ultra. The basics of the chair are the same, however, there are significant differences that will surprise current 1103 Ultra users who are looking to replace their chairs.

Jazzy Select 6 Ultra v. Quantum 1103 Ultra

1. Expense for Providers - The Quantum 1103 Ultra is now a much more expensive chair for providers to purchase. If the provider is billing the chair as a replacement for the Jazzy 1103 Ultra, they'll most likely use the KO831 code. Because of the dramatic reduction in reimbursement for providers using the Ko831 code, the Jazzy Select 6 Ultra, with it's lift feature, will be the chair of choice.

2. Charger - A design change for the Jazzy Select 6 Ultra includes an off-board charger. Users will no longer be able to plug in their chairs from the base to the wall. Now, users will be forced to use an off-board battery which can only be connected in the in-set just underneath the controller. Although it seems minor, this change will dissappoint Jazzy 1103 Ultra users who enjoyed the convenience of stuffing the end of an unplugged charger in the pouch on the rear of the seat.

3. Seat Height - The seat on a Jazzy Select Ultra 6 has a higher seat height from the lowest position compared to the Quantum 1103 Ultra. The reason - Pride Mobility, the manufacturer, has positioned the lift mechanism on the post, just above the shroud of the chair. Previously on the Jazzy version of the 1103, the lift mechanism was positioned inside the shroud. The difference in placement prevents those needing a lower seat position for transfers from making accommodations they may already be used to. Basically, if you had a Jazzy 1103 Ultra and now you're considering a Jazzy Select 6 Ultra, your seat will begin in a higher position.

4. Seat Comfort/Size - To help reduce costs for providers, Pride Mobility has trimmed the design and amount of cushion in their Jazzy series of chairs. Although the seat measurements may be the same, Jazzy 1103 users may be dissappointed to find the newer Jazzy Select 6 Ultra seat as less comfortable and possibly an appearance of being smaller.

Summary

If you're a Jazzy 1103 Ultra user and it's time to replace your chair using insurance, you may be forced to pay significant out-of-pocket costs due to the re-classification of the 1103 into the Quantum label. If you cannot afford the cost, the Jazzy Select 6 Ultra will be your new alternative.

Written by - Rodney McCarthy, ATP, ProTech Medical - www.protechdelivers.com

Available to be republished. Please include author and link.

Pro-Tech Medical Delivers Nashville Medical Supplies

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 18:21:00 +0000

If you're in search of Nashville medical supplies, Pro-Tech Medical has a complete inventory to choose from. Serving Middle Tennessee since 1983, Pro-Tech Medical has established itself as the industry leader in home medical products.

Pro-Tech Medical can deliver your medical supplies in Nashville and surrounding counties. We specialize in respiratory, mobility, and home equipment to improve the lifestyle of those with health challenges.

To view more home medical supplies in the Nashville, Tennessee area, go to www.protechdelivers.com. Or call, 1-800-722-7313.

Most medical supplies for Nashville area residents are covered by insurances including Medicare, BC/BS, HealthSpring, United Healthcare, and more.

Pro-Tech Medical, Add Us As A Friend On Facebook

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:56:00 +0000

You can now add us as a friend on Facebook! Search Pro-Tech Medical and sign up to get the latest in news and updates. Also, become a fan of Pro-Tech Medical!

Pro-Tech Medical is a home medical equipment provider for Middle Tennessee. We accept most insurances including Medicare, BC/BS, United Healthcare, and more.

You can also follow us by subscribing to our RSS feed.

www.protechdelivers.com

www.youtube.com/protechmedical

www.twitter.com/protechmedical

Home Oxygen Therapy Equipment

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:20:00 +0000

Donnie Springer, RRT with ProTech Medical explains the most common equipment prescribed for persons needing home oxygen therapy.

The video demonstrates a traditional compressed gas system with a concentrator, portable tank, regulator, and supplies.

ProTech Medical has provided home medical equipment to respiratory customers in Middle Tennessee since 1983. For more information, visit our website - www.protechdelivers.com

ProTech Medical provides home oxygen equipment by accepting most insurance plans including Medicare, BC/BS, HealthSpring, Humana, United Healthcare, and more.

If you suffer from chronic breathing problems as a result of COPD or Emphysema, talk to your physician about a simple overnight test to measure your oxygen saturation level.

ProTech Medical serves home oxygen therapy customers in Nashville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Columbia, Shelbyville, Lewisburg, Chapel Hill, Lynchburg, Pulaski, Lawrenceburg, Hohenwald, Centerville, and hundreds of small communities throughout Middle Tennessee.

Pro-Tech Medical Provides CPAP Therapy For Improved Health

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:40:00 +0000

Most people are aware of the benefits that CPAP treatment can provide for people with sleep apnea: a better night’s sleep, more alertness and energy during the day, and an overall improvement in the quality of life. But did you know that CPAP treatment can also improve comorbidities of sleep apnea, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and obesity? The following information describes the relationship between sleep apnea and these comorbidities, and highlights the importance of treatment in gaining the full benefits of CPAP therapy.

Sleep Apnea and Diabetes

The link between sleep apnea and diabetes has been referenced in a growing number of clinical articles. Sleep apnea is very common in patients who suffer from diabetes, and people with sleep apnea have higher chances of developing insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes patients who receive treatment for their sleep apnea often have an immediate improvement in their diabetic condition. If you have diabetes and think you might have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor and find out right away. Treating sleep apnea might help you control your blood sugar levels and may lower your chances of complications, like heart disease.

High blood pressure

The National Institutes of Health lists sleep apnea as a cause of high blood pressure. Studies show that about 30% of all people with high blood pressure have sleep apnea. That number increases to 80% for people taking three or more medications to control their blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure and sleep apnea, starting treatment may help you lower your levels significantly and improve your heart health.

Heart Disease

Untreated sleep apnea strains the heart and may cause it not to work properly. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to heart disease and heart failure. People with sleep apnea can lower their chances of developing these problems by getting treated. Sleep apnea treatment can people help control their blood pressure and improve their heart health.

Stroke

Sleep apnea can increase a person's chances of stroke. In fact, studies show that more than 60% of patients who have had a stroke also have sleep apnea. Stroke patients with untreated sleep apnea may have a harder time recovering after a stroke than others do. Recovering from a stroke takes much energy and motivation, but the sleepiness that comes from sleep apnea can make it difficult for a person to follow rehabilitation programs, causing poor recovery. Stroke patients with untreated sleep apnea have higher chances of death than patients who receive treatment.

Obesity

About 40% of obese people have sleep apnea. Overweight people should be particularly concerned because sleep apnea may make weight loss more difficult. The sleepiness that comes from sleep apnea may cause people to overeat, sleep more, and exercise less. Some people, as a matter of habit, will eat to "wake up" when they feel drowsy during the day. That in turn can cause them to gain more weight, which may make their sleep apnea even worse. Being treated for sleep apnea can help obese people gain the energy to exercise more and lose weight.

As you can see, CPAP therapy can do more than help you sleep well and go far beyond treating your sleep apnea if you have comorbidities such as those described above. If you remain compliant with your treatment, you are more likely to enjoy the health benefits that CPAP therapy has to offer.

For more information or to see how CPAP therapy can help you, call us today - 1-800-722-7313. Let our Respiratory Staff help you improve your life.

www.protechdelivers.com

Explaining Medicare Requirements for Power Chairs/Scooters

noreply@blogger.com (Pro-Tech Medical) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:33:00 +0000

A power wheelchair (K0010-K0014) is covered by Medicare when a patient's condition is such that without the use of a wheelchair the patient would be otherwise bed or chair confined. Additionally, the patient is unable to operate a manual wheelchair due to a severe neurologic or muscular condition of both arms and legs.

Examples of severe neurologic conditions might include spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, advanced multiple sclerosis, or stroke with dense hemiplegia. In addition to the diagnosis of such a condition, there must also be functional impairment involving paralysis or such severe weakness of arms as well as legs that the patient is unable to propel a manual wheelchair within the confines of their home or individual living quarters.

The DMERC has received many claims with documentation of the need for power wheelchairs including statements signed by physicians, indicating a degree of functional impairment and use within the home or living quarters, which has not been corroborated when further investigated. In an effort to better determine the medical necessity for power wheelchairs (K0010-K0014), Region C DMERC may require information in addition to a CMN, which is normally submitted with the claim.

Suppliers may be notified of the need for this extra documentation before a claim for a power wheelchair is adjudicated for payment. The extra documentation requested will include the following elements:

The manufacturer and model/number of the power wheelchair ordered, delivered and used by the patient, which must be the same item for which the claim is being submitted.
Copies of the Progress Notes from the medical chart of the treating physician who is ordering the power wheelchair. These notes must be relevant to the diagnoses listed on the CMN, and address functional levels justifying the need for the power wheelchair (according to the DMERC RMRP). One entry in the Progress Notes should certainly refer to the ordering of the power wheelchair along with reasons for its need, considering the severity of the conditions for which power wheelchairs are required. It is also expected that several Progress Notes (with different dates of entry) will be present within the treating physician's medical chart, referring to the condition and associated limitations of function, and these notes are to be included as well. If hospital records such as a discharge summary adequately address a qualifying condition and functional level at the time of discharge justifying need for a power wheelchair in the home, these will also be helpful.

Physicians who express concerns about patient confidentiality may be reassured that when the patient signs the HCFA-1500 claim form which is submitted for the power wheelchair, the patient grants the Medicare Carrier (the DMERC) authority to secure medical records in order to establish the medical necessity of equipment for which Medicare is being billed. Since only Progress Notes pertaining to the relevance of the need for the power wheelchair are required, this information should not be considered beyond the professional scope of the supplier, who must properly equip and fit the beneficiary with this item (as well as assess the particular home environment in which it is to be used). Failure to provide adequate and relevant copies of the treating physician's Progress Notes from the physician's medical chart of the patient will be considered lack of adequate medical necessity documentation, and claims for K0010-K0014 will be denied as medically unnecessary.

If the Progress Note entries of the treating physician do not address the following details of a thorough functional assessment of the patient, it may also be necessary to obtain an evaluation by one of these professionals: 1) a physiatrist (physician specializing in rehabilitation medicine), 2) a physical therapist licensed in the state where the evaluation is being performed, or 3) an occupational therapist certified by the national certifying board and who has met any regulations for licensure, certification, or registration by the state in which the evaluation is performed. From whichever of these professionals, the following details of functional ability should be addressed: condition necessitating use of a power wheelchair; date of onset of this condition; progression of the condition and prognosis; semi-quantitative assessment of strength in the extremities; the presence or absence of increased muscle tone or spasms; trunk stability and sitting posture; quantification of the patient's ability to ambulate and what assistance (e.g., cane, walker, other person, etc.) is needed for this (if applicable); ability to transfer from bed/chair to wheelchair (including the ability to stand and pivot); endurance; cognitive abilities; visual impairments; description of current wheelchair (if applicable), age of equipment, and why it is being replaced.

Suppliers will also be asked to furnish a valid telephone number for the beneficiary, the ordering physician, and the physiatrist, physical therapist or occupational therapist who submitted the patient/wheelchair evaluation.

Failure to respond to a request for this extra documentation, or submitting documentation which is not complete in all of the requested details may result in claim denial if medical necessity cannot be established based on the information which is received.

If you are in need of powered mobility, call Rodney McCarthy, ATP today! 1-800-722-7313

www.protechdelivers.com

You can also view power chair videos at www.youtube.com/protechmedical