NCDActive
Tracheostomy Speaking Valve
NCD247
Effective: September 9, 1988
Updated: December 31, 2025
Policy Summary
Tracheostomy speaking valves are covered when provided as a medically necessary accessory to a tracheostomy tube that has been determined to meet the definition of a prosthetic device, because the valve enhances the tube's function. Coverage is described as applying to the valve as an element of the prosthetic tracheostomy tube rather than as an independent non-prosthetic item; documentation must support the tube's prosthetic status and the valve's accessory role.
Coverage Criteria Preview
Key requirements from the full policy
"A tracheostomy speaking valve is covered when the patient's tracheostomy tube has been determined to meet the definition of a prosthetic device and the speaking valve functions as a medically neces..."
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