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6 Tips to Control Oxygen Service Costs

Halfway into 2009 the reimbursement cuts have certainly taken a toll on profit margins. When it comes to cutting operational costs, many providers look first at service, but to stay competitive in today's market, extra services are a must. How can providers continue to offer top service to patients and referrals while still remaining profitable?

Study: Sleep May Be Factor in Weight Control

Sleep could be critical to maintaining a healthy body weight, according to new research presented at the recent American Thoracic Society International Conference. The study showed that body mass index (BMI) is consistently linked to length and quality of sleep.

Part II: Is Your Web Site Working for You?

Last month, Respiratory Management reported on the basic steps to generate a successful HME Web site. Read on to find out about some of the more advanced techniques to get the most out of your site.

CMS Issues Information About Round 1 Rebid Process

The American Association of Homecare (AAHomecare) reports that a slightly modified version of the Request for Bids (RFB) instructions and accompanying forms will be published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

HME Expo Releases Attendance Numbers

The HME Expo, the industry's newest trade show and conference, has released attendance numbers for its April 21-23 show in Baltimore.

Researcher Uses GPS to Find Asthma Causes

David Van Sickle, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health and Society scholar in the department of population health sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, wants to attach a GPS device to inhalers.

OSA Subject of TV's 'The Biggest Loser'

The subject of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) debuted on prime-time television recently in an episode of NBC's "The Biggest Loser."

New Web Site Promotes COPD Education

Check out CIRCULATEcme.org, a national educational initiative.



Study Reports Tongue Exercise May Help Patients with OSA

Practicing certain tongue and pharyngeal exercises may reduce symptoms of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to new research.

HOPP Act Reintroduced to House

On May 12, Rep. Tom Price, R-Ga., and Rep. Heath Shuler, D-N.C., reintroduced the Home Oxygen Patient Protection (HOPP) Act in the House.

CMS Talks Travel Oxygen

Last week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) DME MACs released clarification on travel oxygen, reminding providers that a new payment policy went into effect Jan. 1.

Part I: Is Your Web Site Working for You?

If Web sites aren't exactly in your comfort zone, however, don't worry. Building a Web site doesn't have to be a guessing game. Knowing the key components and executing them well can really make a provider shine in the marketplace as well as on the Internet.

New Data: Symbicort Improves Small Airway Function in Asthma Patients

Results from three newly presented studies evaluating the maintenance combination asthma therapy Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) showed significant improvement in small airway function in asthma patients ages 12 years and older who previously received inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy.

CMS: No Further Delay in Competitive Bidding

This afternoon the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a statement that competitive bidding for DMEPOS suppliers would not be further delayed.

Home Care Associations Nationwide Urge Policymakers to Rescind Competitive Bidding Rule

In a letter sent Monday, the American Association for Homecare and 27 regional and state home care associations urged the White House Office of Health Reform and the leadership of the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to review and rescind the controversial CMS competitive bidding rule before it is implemented April 18.