This article was revised on October 27, 2021, to update the effective timeline.

Pulse oximeters – the small electronic devices used to measure heart rate and oxygen saturation in a patient's red blood cells – are a useful tool to monitor COVID-19 symptoms at home.

Independence covers the device for patients under evaluation for or with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis to use at home. We have waived member cost-share* (i.e., copayment, deductible, and coinsurance) and referral requirements for this device from June 1, 2020, through December 31, 2021, when supplied by one of our dedicated participating pulse oximetry providers. Out of network rates would apply when using a non-participating provider.

Pulse oximeters for Medicare Advantage members are covered through December 31, 2021, or the end of the Public Health Emergency (whichever comes first).​​

If a patient satisfies the clinical coverage criteria in a facility, the discharging physician should provide a prescription to the member with the contact information for one of our dedicated durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers. The member – or medical personnel on behalf of the member – should call the DME supplier directly to arrange home delivery of the pulse oximeter.

Independence's dedicated participating DME suppliers are:

• Apria (Phone: 1-855-709-9966; Fax: 1-888-492-0010)
• Better Living Now (1-877-290-5186)
• Complete Medical Supplies (1-866-748-5151)
• Montgomery Medical (610-630-6357)
• Specialty Medical Products (610-644-1370)

Learn more

For information about clinical coverage criteria and coding, read the Medical and Claim Payment Policy News Articles:

• Commercial
  
• Medicare Advantage
  

For information about other respiratory equipment and supplies, please read COVID-19 (Coronavirus): Coverage for respiratory equipment and related supplies.

​*Self-funded customers can choose to opt out of the cost-share waiver.​