In the course of treating an ulcer, it may become medically necessary to switch the surgical dressing a patient is using. For example, AMERX® Calcium Alginate Dressing may be dispensed to address an ulcer that is stalled in the inflammatory phase of wound healing. If this ulcer then progresses to the proliferative phase of wound healing, it may be medically necessary to change from calcium alginate to HELIX3-CP® Collagen Powder to enhance wound contracture and cellular migration.
When a change in dressing type occurs, providers must complete a new Standard Written Order for the new product type.
Whether the dispensing provider must wait for the patient to run out of the supply of the original dressing before switching, it depends on the quantity of that first dressing initially supplied. For example, if a 30-day supply of calcium alginate was originally supplied, it would not be appropriate to dispense collagen until day #31. However, if a 15-day supply of calcium alginate was originally supplied, collagen may be dispensed on day #16. If only a 15-day supply was originally furnished, it is not necessary to wait 30 days before switching.
It may also be possible to switch early if medically necessary after communicating with the payer’s Medical Director office and obtaining authorization to do so.
