EXTREMIT-EASE
The EXTREMIT-EASE compression garment provides 30-50 mmHg of therapeutic compression and has an innovative design that employs zippers and bungees with large tabs. This unique design results in a garment that improves compliance as it is much easier to apply and take off compared to more traditional compression options.
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GRADIENT COMPRESSION WRAP – Delivers 30-50 mmHg therapeutic compression intended for the management of mild-to-moderate swelling from lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, acute postoperative edema, and other swelling disorders. Please note: In most cases, this compression wrap is covered by Medicare. |
Coverage
The two main situations in which EXTREMIT-EASE is covered for Medicare beneficiaries include the treatment of venous leg ulcers and lymphedema. Medicare coverage for Extremit-EASE used in treating venous leg ulcers is outlined in the DMEMAC Surgical Dressings Local Coverage Determination and Local Coverage Article. Here, Extremit-EASE is covered when “it is used in the treatment of an open venous stasis ulcer that meets the qualifying wound requirements.” Medicare coverage for Extremit-EASE used in treating lymphedema is outlined in the 2024 Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate Update. It states “Extremit-EASE is covered for treating lymphedema even in the absence of an ulcer”.
Frequency
For Medicare beneficiaries, when treating venous stasis ulcers, one medically necessary Extremit-EASE is allowed every six months as long as all coverage criteria is met. When treating lymphedema for Medicare beneficiaries, three medically necessary Extremit-EASE are allowed every six months as long as all coverage criteria is met. The 2024 Rule referenced above speaks to hygiene concerns and the need to wash these garments when addressing lymphedema. It also includes a discussion of allowing time to wash and dry the garments and finally concludes that covering three garments at a time, when medically necessary, allows the patient “wear one, wash one, and dry one” simultaneously.
| Venous Stasis Ulcers | Lymphedema |
|---|---|
| One Garment | Three Garments/Extremity |
| Every 6 months | Every 6 months |
References
2024 Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate Update – https://www.cms.gov/medicare/medicare-fee-service-payment/homehealthpps/home-health-prospective-payment-system/cms-1780-f#:~:text=CMS%20issued%20a%20final%20rule,existing%20statutory%20and%20regulatory%20requirements.
DMEMAC Surgical Dressings LCD – https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/lcd.aspx?lcdId=33831&ver=48
DMEMAC Surgical Dressings LCA – https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/article.aspx?articleid=54563
Dr. Jeffrey D. Lehrman, DPM, FASPS, MAPWCA, CPC, CPMA
Dr. Lehrman is a podiatrist practicing in Fort Collins, CO and operates Lehrman Consulting, LLC which provides consultation services regarding coding, compliance and documentation. Dr. Lehrman is a Certified Professional Coder and Certified Professional Medical Auditor. He serves as a staff liaison at the AMA CPT® Editorial Panel meetings where CPT codes are created, edited, and deleted. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Fellow of the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons, and is recognized as a “Master” by the American Professional Wound Care Association. Dr Lehrman is a Fellow of the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management, Past Director of the American Professional Wound Care Association Board of Directors, and is a Past Chairman of the Board of the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons. Dr. Lehrman is also on the editorial advisory board of the journal WOUNDS.
