DWO Becomes SWO

Medicare announced changes to the documentation requirements for DMEPOS items. Effective for dates of service January 1, 2020 and after, a Detailed Written Order (DWO) is replaced with a Standard Written Order (SWO.)

DMEPOS suppliers are no longer required to obtain an initial/dispensing order from a physician prior to delivering products. All other documentation requirements are still in place. The only change is the name of the DWO is now SWO.

The Standard Written Order (SWO) must include the following elements:

• Beneficiary name or Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI)
• Order date
• General description of the item, including:
  ·         Can be either a general description, a HCPCS code, A HCPCS code narrative, or a brand name/model number
  ·         All separately billable features, additions, options, or accessories must be listed separately on the SWO
  ·         All separately billable supplies must be listed separately on the SWO
• Quantity to be dispensed, if applicable
• Treating/Ordering practitioner's name or NPI
• Treating/Ordering practitioner's signature

Suppliers may create the SWO and provide it to the physician for signature. A signed SWO must be received from the physician prior to billing a claim to Medicare. The SWO is not considered part of the medical record so all corroborating medical documentation must still be obtained.

For more information about the new SWO,  click here. Noridian is offering a "General Documentation" webinar on January 28th and it is open for anyone. You may register here.