Compression Garments
About
Under the Lymphedema Treatment Act, compression garments are covered by Medicare for the treatment of lymphedema.
Compression garments are only covered for the treatment of lymphedema, and one of the following diagnosis codes must be included in medical records:
Primary Lymphedema (Q82.0)
Secondary Lymphedema (I89.0)
Post Mastectomy Lymphedema (I97.2)
Other Postprocedural Complications of the Circulatory System (I97.89)
Medicare patients can receive 3 garments every six months for each affected limb. These can be either elastic stockings, or can be inelastic wraps, or a mix of both.
Patients are also eligible to receive two nighttime compression garments every two years, for each affected limb.
All compression garment orders must be submitted with completed measurements.
Available Products
Stockings
- Graduated Compression
- Greater variety of styles and colors
- Lower extremity: stockings are available in knee high, thigh light, and full/panty
- Upper extremity: full arm sleeves, gloves, and gauntlets are available
- The appearance is more "natural"
- Available in 20-30 mmHg, 30-40 mmHg, and 40-50 mmHg
Wraps & Inelastic Banding
- Easier to put on for patients with limited dexterity, or for those of larger size
- Highly adjustable fit and compression
- Great for patients with fluctuating swelling
- Heavy duty and sturdy
Nighttime Compression Garments
These garments are designed to support treatment that a patient receives during the day, and to reduce swelling throughout the night. They offer a lighter compression which is more comfortable for sleep. These garments are made with foam chips that provide a gentle lymphatic massage throughout the night.
Nighttime garments can help with cutting down on bandaging time, ease application of daytime garments, and help with a better quality of sleep.
