Rule 23-209-1.44 - VentilatorA. Medicaid defines a ventilator as a mechanical device used for artificial ventilation of the lungs.B. Medicaid covers ventilators for all beneficiaries when prior authorized by the Utilization Management and Quality Improvement Organization (UM/QIO), the Division of Medicaid or designated entity, for rental only, and ordered by a physician and one (1) of the following criteria is met: 1. The beneficiary is unable to maintain spontaneous respiration.2. The beneficiary is unable to maintain safe levels of arterial carbon dioxide or oxygen with spontaneous breathing. 3. The beneficiary has a medical condition that requires mechanically assisted ventilation that is appropriate for home use, without continuous technical or professional supervision.C. Medicaid covers the rental allowance which includes: 5. All supplies necessary for operation of the equipment,6. Education of the patient and caregiver,7. All maintenance and repairs or replacement,8. Labor including respiratory therapy visits, and23 Miss. Code. R. 209-1.44
42U.S.C. § 1395m; Miss. Code Ann. §§ 43-13-117(17), 43-13-121.