Remote setups offer providers, patients flexibility

Giving homecare providers more setup options allows them to serve more patients—and that's good for both providers and patients.

“At current reimbursement rates, DME providers have had to scale back staff and service areas,” says Tony Ross, senior marketing manager for Philips Respironics.“(Remote setups) afford DME providers the flexibility to serve these remote patients and ensure they get the products they need, even when a technician is not able to drive to the patient's home.”

Operational flexibility

A provider's home oxygen business is currently limited by a number of factors, including how many technicians they employ, what a patient requires and where they live, says Ross.

“With the program, the provider can determine which patients will benefit from a technician visiting their home, for oxygen or any other service, and those that simply require oxygen equipment delivery and instruction,” he said. “That allows providers to spend more time with patients that have higher needs, while providing faster service for oxygen delivery. We are in essence increasing the overall number of patients a DME can serve each day, without increasing staff.”

The nudge

While providers have historically been slow to adopt a non-delivery model, that appears to be changing, says Ross.

“Many of our customers are telling us they would like to move in the direction of non-delivery oxygen service—with home delivery or not,” he said. “The issue is determining what the most effective model is for each provider. We will work with our customers to develop the programs that best serve patient requirements, while also meeting the business needs of DME providers.”