A Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine is a motorized device used following joint surgery or injury, most commonly for the knee, hip, shoulder, or elbow. It gently moves the joint through a controlled range of motion without patient effort. The primary goal is to prevent scar tissue and joint adhesions, which cause stiffness and reduced range of motion. CPM therapy also helps reduce swelling, manage pain, and increase blood circulation. Since the need for this equipment is typically short-term, renting the CPM machine for home use is the standard procedure for obtaining this Durable Medical Equipment (DME).
Identifying Rental Sources
The most common source for renting a Continuous Passive Motion machine is a specialized Durable Medical Equipment (DME) company. These companies focus on providing medical devices for home use and work directly with orthopedic surgeons and hospitals to coordinate patient care. The surgeon’s office usually initiates the rental process by providing a referral to a preferred DME vendor familiar with the equipment and insurance procedures.
Some large hospitals or specialized orthopedic clinics may operate an in-house rental program, streamlining the transition of the machine to the patient’s home environment. This direct coordination simplifies delivery and initial setup immediately following discharge. Less common sources include local, independent medical supply stores or pharmacies that maintain a small inventory of rental equipment.
Relying on the surgeon’s referral system is the most practical approach. These established DME providers ensure the correct machine type is delivered promptly and typically handle the necessary paperwork and coordination with insurance companies. Contacting the surgeon’s office directly is the recommended first step to secure the referral.
Navigating Prescriptions and Insurance Coverage
Securing a CPM machine rental requires a mandatory physician’s order, often called a Certificate of Medical Necessity. This prescription must specify the joint requiring therapy, the prescribed range of motion settings, and the expected duration of use. Without this documentation, the DME company cannot provide the equipment, and insurance will not process the claim.
CPM machines are classified as Durable Medical Equipment and are covered under most health insurance policies, including Medicare Part B. Coverage is often restrictive and depends on the specific surgical procedure. For example, Medicare coverage is primarily limited to patients who have undergone a total knee replacement.
For covered procedures, the rental is usually limited to a short, continuous period, such as 21 days for Medicare patients. Therapy must be initiated shortly after surgery, typically within 48 hours. For other joint surgeries, such as those involving the shoulder or elbow, coverage is less certain. Some commercial insurers may deny coverage, considering the device “investigational.”
The DME supplier will contact the insurance provider to verify benefits and obtain prior authorization before delivery to avoid unexpected costs. Even with authorization, patients are responsible for applicable deductibles and the standard coinsurance, typically 20% of the approved amount if the supplier accepts assignment.
Patients should confirm whether the DME company accepts assignment, meaning they accept the insurance-approved amount as full payment. If the supplier does not accept assignment, the patient may pay the full rental cost upfront and seek reimbursement later. Understanding these financial details and the exact duration of covered rental is essential.
Practical Steps for Delivery and Setup
Once the prescription and insurance authorization are finalized, the DME company coordinates the machine’s delivery to the patient’s home. Delivery is usually scheduled to coincide with the patient’s hospital discharge to ensure prompt therapy initiation. The company representative must provide professional setup and comprehensive patient training, not simply drop off the equipment.
The technician fits the CPM machine to the patient’s limb and calibrates the device according to the surgeon’s prescribed range of motion and speed settings. The representative demonstrates proper limb positioning, safe operation of controls, and the required daily usage schedule. Ensure the machine is placed on a stable surface, such as a bed, with a secure power supply.
For troubleshooting and technical support, the primary contact should be the DME rental company, not the surgeon’s office. They are responsible for maintenance and addressing mechanical issues during the rental period. Patients should receive clear instructions on who to call if the machine malfunctions or if there are questions about the settings.
At the conclusion of the rental period, the DME company is responsible for retrieving the equipment. The patient should coordinate a specific pickup time and ensure all accessories are ready for collection. This streamlined return process completes the rental cycle and prevents potential charges for unreturned equipment.