E1814 Insurance Policy Changes

Mechanical Stretching Devices for Contracture and Joint Stiffness (CPB 0405, reviewed 2026-06-30)

Aetna updated its Medical Clinical Policy Bulletin 0405 on mechanical stretching devices for contracture and joint stiffness, effective immediately. The policy defines medical necessity criteria for dynamic splinting devices as DME and explicitly lists which devices and indications are NOT covered (experimental/investigational). Key requirement: All claims must include a Standard Written Order (SWO) from a treating practitioner (MD/DO/PA/NP/CNS) with complete documentation in the medical record; supplier statements alone are insufficient.