AutoloGel System regulatory update

Cytomedix said the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed guidelines covering Medicare reimbursement for its AutoloGel System, which isolates and activates platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from a patient's own blood and is then used to produce a gel for use on exuding wounds. CMS proposed that Medicare administrative contractors determine the payment amount for AutoloGel System for claims submitted from physician offices. According to Cytomedix, Medicare contractors pay claims based on invoices from the healthcare provider. CMS told contractors to follow the proposed plan from July 1 to Dec. 31. Additionally, CMS placed the reimbursement code for AutoloGel in the ambulatory payment classification, which the company said provides limited reimbursement for use of the product in the outpatient setting. The final rule will be issued in November and take effect on Jan. 1, 2014. ...