Updated FHIR DME Orders Project (PSS-2158)

Payers, Providers, Suppliers and Patients need the ability to exchange orders and referrals electronically to eliminate paper / FAX / verbal orders, ensure accurate ordering, minimize denials, reduce time required to supply patients with needed DME and related supplies. There is currently no well adopted standard for exchanging orders and referrals between the ordering and performing provider that accommodates documentation, authorization(s) and the potential role of an intermediary. An informal survey of the DME industry leaders conducted by a CMS contractor noted that over 90% of all orders are conducted by FAX or verbal exchanges and the fewer than 5% utilize any published standards (excluding NCPDP for items that can be ordered via the pharmacy networks). This implementation guide will provide a standard for adoption by ordering providers, performing providers and suppliers using FHIR based standards.