In brief: ResMed earnings down, new home testing device classification proposed

SAN DIEGO - Revenues were up and profits were down at ResMed for the quarter ended Sept 30, 2011. Revenue increased 12% over the same quarter a year ago to a record $314.8 million, the company announced recently. Net income was down 11% to $50.5 million or 33 cents per share, which the company blamed on currency exchange rates. Revenue in the Americas increased by 9% to $163.9 million over the previous year's quarter, while revenue outside the Americas increased by 15% to $145.5 million over the previous year's quarter.

Providers may use old ABNs through Dec. 31

WASHINGTON - CMS officials told providers they could use their current ABN forms through Dec. 31 during the Open Door Forum Nov. 2. There are no substantial changes in the newest ABN forms; the only change is the effective date. CMS is authorizing the extension to allow providers to use up preprinted forms. The next Open Door Forum for Home Health, Hospice & DME is scheduled for Jan. 11.

AASM seeks to update home testing classification

DARIEN, Ill. - The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has proposed a new home testing device classification system. The proposed system, called SCOPER, categorizes home sleep testing devices based on measurements of sleep, cardiovascular, oximetry, position, effort and respiratory parameters, according to an article in the Nov. 2 Sleep Report. Nancy Collop, AASM president, said there have been many testing devices developed that do not fit within the original classification system, which was created in 1994.

Pa. governor declares Assistive Technology Awareness Month

HARRISBURG, Pa. - Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett declared November 2011 Assistive Technology Awareness Month. Corbett stated in the proclamation that Pennsylvania is "a leader in the development and implementation of assistive technology programs for its citizens with disabilities and older residents." The governor encouraged the state's citizens to become aware of the ways assistive technology contributes to health, happiness and independence.

CMS releases two new informational booklets

WASHINGTON - CMS last week announced the release of the "Items and Services That Are Not Covered Under the Medicare Program" booklet, which includes information about the four categories and services not covered by Medicare. It outlines applicable exceptions to exclusions and the advance beneficiary notice of noncoverage. A second booklet, "Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage Part A and Part B," includes information on when an ABN should be used and how it should be completed. Both are available at www.cms.gov.

Short takes

ECS Billing & Consulting North was accredited by HQAA in October. ECS North met standards in medical billing, training and business operations, said vice president Sarah Hanna...Midmark has partnered with Cleveland Medical Devices to launch the Midmark SleepView Monitor and SleepView Portal, it was announced recently...Worthington Cylinders announced Oct. 31 that it has expanded its medical cylinder line by offering a larger, 122-cubic-foot size. The larger size means less frequent replacement deliveries.