HME News clarifies CRT repair rules and prior auth exemption status

Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) providers are navigating repair rules and clarifying which services are exempt from prior authorization. This operational guidance is critical for DME suppliers and the practices that prescribe wheelchairs and other adaptive equipment. Misunderstanding the prior auth exemption can lead to claim denials and patient access delays for essential repairs. Billing teams supporting DME or CRT should verify current payer policies for repair codes versus replacement codes. The lack of a universal standard means checking each major payer's DME manual for the 2026 policy year.