Library: Policy

317:30-5-211.22. Pulse oximeter

Revised 9-12-22

(a) Pulse oximeter. Pulse oximeter is a device used for measuring blood oxygen levels in a non-invasive manner.

(b) Medical necessity. Pulse oximeters must be determined by a provider to be medically necessary and documented in the member=s plan of care as medically necessary and used for medical purposes. A request by a qualified provider for pulse oximeters in and of itself shall not constitute medical necessity. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) shall serve as the final authority pertaining to all determinations of medical necessity. Refer to Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 317:30-5-211.2 and OAC 317:30-3-1(f) for policy on medical necessity.

(c) Documentation. All documentation submitted to request services must demonstrate, through adequate objective medical records, evidence sufficient to justify the member's need for the service, in accordance with OAC 317:30-3-1(f)(2). Documentation must include:

(1) A current oxygen order signed and dated by an OHCA-contracted provider, along with a certificate of medical necessity (CMN);

(2) Pertinent information relating to the member's underlying diagnosis and condition which results in the need for the oximeter and supplies, including documentation of unstable airway events and documentation of current monitor readings if available; and

(3) Documentation of an available trained caregiver in the home who is able to intervene and address changes in the member's oxygen saturation levels in a medically safe and appropriate manner.

(4) For full guidelines, please refer to www.okhca.org/mau.

(d) Reimbursement.

(1) Temporary probe covers are not reimbursed separately for rented oximeters as they are included in the price of the rental.

(2) Pulse oximeters are not reimbursed in conjunction with apnea monitors.