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December 21, 2023

Modifiers and Competitive Bidding Changes for Off-the-Shelf Back and Knee Braces Effective January 1, 2024

For dates of service on or after January 1, 2024, suppliers may no longer use the KV, J4, and J5 modifiers for off-the-shelf back and knee braces. Physicians and other treating practitioners, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and hospital-based suppliers used these modifiers during Round 2021 of the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program (CBP).

This change is a result of the Temporary Gap in CBP

All Medicare Round 2021 CBP contracts for off-the-shelf back and knee braces expire on December 31, 2023. Effective January 1, 2024, there will be a temporary gapExternal PDF in the program. Medicare-enrolled DMEPOS suppliers may furnish DMEPOS items to Medicare beneficiaries during the CBP temporary gap period.

Prior Authorization

If you furnish items that require prior authorization you must submit a prior authorization (expedited or standard) request.

If a beneficiary needs an item sooner than the 2-day expedited timeframe, you may use the ST modifier. Use modifier ST for Prior Authorization exceptions due to acute or emergent conditions. The Orthoses Prior Authorization page includes instructions for acute situations. ST modifier claims will be subject to prepayment review.

Resources:

MLN Competitive Bidding Program Fact Sheets:

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