Medicare AdvantageCoverageMedium impact
MA05.043e, Mechanical Stretching Devices for the Treatment of Joint Stiffness or Contractures
Independence Blue Cross·Orthopedics, PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehab), Physical Therapy +1 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jan 1, 2025
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Medicare Advantage has updated medical necessity criteria for mechanical stretching devices used to treat joint stiffness or contractures. The new criteria will determine when these devices are considered medically necessary for coverage.
Action Required
By January 1, 2025: Billing team must review and implement new medical necessity criteria for mechanical stretching device claims. Providers must ensure documentation meets updated Medicare Advantage requirements before submitting claims. Claims not meeting new criteria will be denied.