Since the provision of respiratory therapy by a respiratory therapist does not represent
a service generally provided by SNF's, respiratory therapy furnished by a respiratory
therapist is a covered extended care service only when furnished to the facility by
a hospital with which the facility has a transfer agreement. (See HI 00601.050 for the definition and coverage criteria pertaining to respiratory therapy services.)
Although the services of a respiratory therapist are not covered extended care services,
except as indicated above, respiratory therapy services performed by a nurse would
constitute nursing services and would be covered as such under the extended care benefit.
Moreover, oxygen which might be required in this service and the cost of nonroutine
medications used are considered ancillary services and may be billed for separately.
However, the use of any necessary equipment involved is considered part of the routine
services furnished by the facility.
NOTE: See HI 00601.520 for information on Presumption of Coverage.