No, I think what he is saying is he is just doing the serial casts as a standalone treatment for contractures. I have heard this same complaint and I think it is very valid. Physical therapists can usually be reimbursed for it and I certainly think orthotists should be as well; actually some orthotists are better at finding and keeping subtalar neutral in the casts than some PTs. And if you think in a given case that casting is better than a dynamic orthosis you should be able to get reimbursed for it IMHO…Just my $.02. I wish I knew how to get the rule changed. It would make serial casting more readily available as an option in many parts of Arkansas for my kids.
Vikki Stefans, M.D., pediatric physiatrist (rehab doc for kids) at UAMS and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Working Mom of Sarah T. and Michael C., and wife of Henry Stefans, travel agent extraordinaire. Every mom is a working mom!- OK, dads too. Other address: [email protected]
On Mon, 13 May 2002, Steven L. Fries, CPO, (L) wrote:
> Forest,
> In all of my years of practice, I have never included a charge for
> any casting that I have done as part of any procedure or service that
> I provide. I think you’ve been fortunate that Medicare ever paid you
> anything for the impressions you’ve taken. I personally consider that
> part of the charge for the item I will be providing. Steven L. Fries,
> CPO Fort Myers, FL
