Respiratory Question for the Week of May 20, 2019

Question:

What are the requirements for patients that need respiratory therapy rehabilitation (RTR)?

Answer:

Patients who require RTR will meet all of the following criteria:

• A respiratory therapy rehabilitation plan of care has been prepared by a physician.
• A medical diagnosis of a chronic but stable respiratory condition that is under optimal medical management has been identified. Within three months before initiating RTR, pulmonary function tests revealing forced volume capacity (FVC) or forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) must be less than 60 percent of predicted or carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (Dco) less than 60 percent of predicted.
• The patient exhibits disabling symptoms that impede his or her level of function in performing activities of daily living.
• The patient demonstrates the physical ability to participate and be motivated and committed to the prescribed pulmonary rehabilitation program.
• There is an expectation of a measurable improvement (respiratory and physically) in the patient within a reasonable time.

This question was answered in our Coding Essentials for RT/Pulmonary Function. For more hot topics relating to respiratory services, please visit our store or call us at 1.800.252.1578, ext. 2.