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Frequently Asked Questions
Is your nocturnal testing system with NPF approved by Medicare?
Yes. The method of electronically transmitting test results to a Medicare approved Independent Diagnostic Testing Facility was approved by CMS Publication 120, Transmittal 173, published in August of 2005.
Additional Information: CMS Change Request (CR) 3751, Pub. 100-20, Transmittal 173
(This Transmittal replaces Transmittal 166 concerning Overnight Oximetry Testing, and provides guidance on when a DME supplier may deliver test equipment used in overnight oximetry testing.) Return to Top »
Does Medicare authorize me to take my own machine out to test a patient?Yes. With the encrypted software available through Cardi-O-Pulmonary Diagnostics, LLC & NPF-Inc., you can take your own oximeter out to patients and qualify test them as soon as you have a doctor’s order. By Medicare regulation, an IDTF must still be involved with the testing so the results are then transmitted to us via NPF’s secure server. We then score the test and fax the results to physician and durable medical equipment company with approved paperwork.
Additional Information: "Region B DMERC Supplier Bulletin, June 2006, Volume 06-Issue 02" On page 17 of this document, under "Attention All Respiratory Suppliers," AdminaStrar Federal repeated and clarified issues pertaining to Change Request 3751, Transmittal 173, published August 16th, 2005, concerning Overnight Oximetry Testing. Return to Top »
What does this system cost me and/or the patient? The only cost involved would be a Medicare co-pay to the patient in the event they have no secondary insurance. All software, upgrades, and technical support (via phone and email) are provided to the DME at no cost. There are no set up fees and no contracts.Return to Top »
Does this method of testing meet HIPAA guidelines?
Yes. Test results are saved in encrypted files that can only be viewed by authorized and activated NPF software. NPF, Inc. and Cardi-O-Pulmoanry Diagnostics, LLC will never share patient information with any outside sources. Return to Top »
What type of special equipment will I need and what kind of oximeters can be used with this system?
The only equipment needed is a computer with the following capabilities: Windows 98, 2000, ME, XP or Vista, Microsoft .Net Framework 1.1.4322, Microsoft .Net Framework 1.1 Service Pack 1 (S867460), Microsoft .Net Framework 1.1 Hotfix (KB886903), IBM-compatible with 16 MB of memory, 5 Mb of available disk space (hard drive), Video card with 800 x 600 minimum resolution, Internet Connection, Either the COM or USB Port cable you received with your oximeter device.Additionally, any one of the listed oximeters:GE HEathcare TruSat, Konica-Minolta PULSOX 3 Series or 300 Series, Masimo Rad-5 or Rad 8 (new), Nonin 2500 PalmSAT, 8500M, 9600 Avant (new), WristOx, Novametrix 513 Pulse Oximeter, Respironics 920M, 920M Plus, or WristOxReturn to Top »
How many computers can I install the software on?As many as you like. However, each DME facility will be assigned their own unique Activation Code, which identifies the sender of oximetry data to the IDTF in the system and let's the IDTF know where the results are to be faxed.
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Another system claims to be the only system with a letter directly from Medicare approving their system. Do you or NPF have a letter from Medicare approving your electronic system?
No. A personal letter from Medicare is not required in order to be in compliance with Medicare guidance concerning overnight oximetry testing. CMS Change Request (CR) 3751, Transmittal 173, Pub.100-20 states "CMS does not intend to regulate the ownership of either the testing unit or the technology used to transmit test results...Test results obtained under [the circumstances outlined in this publication] will be accepted by DMERCs and will be used for purposes of qualifying the beneficiary for home oxygen therapy." CMS has further informed NPF, Inc., in writing, that (CR) 3751 provides all the guidance necessary to maintain compliance. If you have any questions or concerns about this, please contact us.
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What information does the IDTF need in order to process test results that I submit?According to CMS Publication 120, Transmittal 173, the test must be performed under the direction / instruction of a Medicare-approved IDTF. In the NPF System, each IDTF takes this very literally and provides their own paperwork, which includes a doctor's order form, patient demographics sheet, activity log, and overnight testing instructions. When you sign up with a specific IDTF to use in this system, you will receive specific paperwork provided by this IDTF to use.
Additional Information:CMS Change Request (CR) 3751, Pub. 100-20, Transmittal 173This Transmittal replaces Transmittal 166 concerning Overnight Oximetry Testing, and provides guidance on when a DME supplier may deliver test equipment used in overnight oximetry testing. Return to Top »
How fast will I get a copy of the test results?
The NPF System does not generate reports instantaneously. We and NPF are concerned that other systems claim to do this. In the NPF System, we will review each test and edit areas of artifact before generating the reports. If you have faxed us all the required paperwork, you can expect results within 2 - 4 hours. Return to Top »
Is there a limit to how many tests can be processed at one time?No. You can download and transmit as many test results as you like. However, files will only be processed when all appropriate paperwork has been faxed to the IDTF. Return to Top »
I have misplaced my copy of the test results. How can I get them again?
Simply call the IDTF you signed up with who received, interpreted, and printed the test results. They will provide you with another copy at no cost. Return to Top »
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