Cervical Traction Devices

Medicare covers home cervical traction devices only when the beneficiary has a musculoskeletal or neurologic impairment requiring traction and the device use has been demonstrated and tolerated. Over-the-door traction (E0860) and specified chin-halter devices (E0849, E0855) may be covered when criteria are met (E0849/E0855 require additional conditions such as treated TMJ, anatomic distortion preventing chin halter, or documented need for >20 lb); headboard (E0840), free-standing frame (E0850), and ambulatory traction (E0856) are denied. Claims require a Standard Written Order (SWO)/WOPD as applicable, compliance with coding guidelines, and maintained proof of delivery or they will be denied.

"Cervical traction devices (E0840, E0849, E0850, E0855, E0860) are covered only if the beneficiary has a musculoskeletal or neurologic impairment that requires traction equipment."