Who Can Fit a Custom-Fit Brace?

The previous post about off the shelf vs custom-fit braces raised several questions about who can fit a custom-fit brace.

Medicare's definition of custom-fit brace is:

• Devices prefabricated
• Device requires more than minimal self-adjustment
• The fitting requires the expertise of a certified orthotist or an individual with specialized training in the provision of orthosis to fit the item to the patient.

The LCD further defines an individual with specialized training as someone who "has specialized training in the provision of orthotics in compliance with all applicable Federal and State licensure and regulatory requirements."

What does this mean for you?

If you provide a custom-fit device, be sure to document the modifications made. You will also need to check with your state licensing authority to see if there are specific requirements in place which define who may fit braces.

You can learn more about your state licensing laws here.

Contact the DME MACs for further guidance.

Region A:  https://med.noridianmedicare.com/web/jadme/contact/scc

Region B: https://www.cgsmedicare.com/jb/cs/contacting.html

Region C: https://www.cgsmedicare.com/jc/cs/contacting.html

Region D: https://med.noridianmedicare.com/web/jddme/contact/sc