D S S   P R E S S   R E L E A S E

For Immediate Release:
April 4, 2007

Contact: Ana Compain-Romero
(573) 751-4815

Blunt’s Directive Leads to Extension for DSS
to Develop Plan for DME
Program continues to operate under former guidelines

Jefferson City - In response to a request made by the Department of Social Services (DSS) at the directive of Gov. Matt Blunt, Federal Judge Dean Whipple has granted a 60-day extension for DSS to develop a plan in response to a March 2 decision on durable medical equipment.

DSS requested the extension after Blunt directed the agency to develop a plan that would make the full range of durable medical equipment available to Medicaid recipients through a state-of-the-art electronic prior authorization process. The original timeframe was March 30.

“We are appreciative that Judge Whipple has granted the time for development of a sound and comprehensive plan in response to the Governor’s directive to our department. We now have the technology to provide excellent administration of this program and ensure that participants have the appropriate access to medically necessary equipment,” DSS Director Deborah Scott said.

While plans are being developed, the Division of Medical Services will continue to process claims submitted from March 2 through June 1 under the guidelines that were in place in August of 2005. Coverage will be available for Medicaid recipients with a medical necessity for eligible durable medical equipment during this timeframe. Eligible equipment consists of all items that were authorized under the old program prior to changes in 2005.

Any Medicaid recipient with a medical need for durable medical equipment during this timeframe should consult their health care provider.