THE
SURVEYOR
I FALL 2013
HME PROVIDERS CONTINUE
TO DO MORE WITH LESS
By Greg Stowell, ACHC Clinical Compliance Educator for DMEPOS, Pharmacy & Sleep
The HME industry has reached a point that has many
providers asking, “Are we there yet?” Have recent changes
to reimbursement protocols and beneficiary access to
services placed the provision of quality products and
services at risk? Is this the time that many feared would
come, where the high quality of products and services can’t
be maintained?
Most of our HME providers entered the industry with a
sincere desire to serve clients with the highest level of
products and services. This is reflected in their mission
statements and their commitment to patients through
policies, procedures, and staff. Providers simply cannot
allow quality to become the latest casualty of the rapidlychanging HME industry.
ACHC standards, along with your organization’s compliance
through relevant and realistic policies and procedures, offer
many quality and operational efficiencies that can help
you maintain the high level of products and services your
customers demand.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS YOU CAN LEVERAGE ACCREDITATION
STANDARDS FOR MAXIMUM BENEFIT:
1
Ensure that your daily operations match your policies and
procedures (P&Ps). Update your P&Ps annually and involve your
staff in suggesting changes.
2 Know exactly what ACHC standards require (and do not require)
to avoid committing valuable company resources based on
misinterpretation. Speak with your Accreditation Advisor,
Department Director, or Clinical Educator to receive clarification
on standards.
3 Think outside of the box; not just in the products you offer, but
the processes and procedures you follow. Examine each step of
your process from order entry to final pickup for opportunities to
improve efficiency. Leverage technology and monitor your business
efficiencies with measurable data.
4 There has never been a more important time to connect with
others in the industry. Network with other providers through state
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