This article was revised on June 22, 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 October 31, 2021, when supplied by one of our dedicated participating pulse oximetry providers.
Pulse oximeters for Medicare Advantage members are covered through October 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
Independence is committed to providing our members with access to the care they need during the COVID-19 pandemic. We encourage all Independence members and providers to visit our dedicated
COVID-19 webpage regularly for the latest news and updates. We will continue to evaluate member needs as the situation changes.
For information about clinical coverage criteria and coding, read the Medical and Claim Payment Policy News Articles:
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.