Diagnostic Medical Testing

6 MINUTE WALK TESTING

What is a 6 Minute Walk Test?

The 6 Minute Walk Test (also known as “exercise testing”) is a 3-part test that evaluates oxygen desaturation while at rest, while exercising, and while exercising on oxygen. The 6MWT can be used for the evaluation of home oxygen needs.

Home Oxygen Qualification Testing

A 6MWT is considered a QUALIFYING oxygen saturation test pursuant to Medicare Oxygen Coverage Criteria.

A. Testing must be performed while the patient is in a chronic stable state:
- As an outpatient, from a qualified testing provider or hospice: within 30 days prior to initial certification; OR
- As an inpatient transitioning home: within two days prior to discharge.

B. The qualifying oxygen saturation test must be performed by a physician, qualified provider or supplier of laboratory services that is registered and able to bill for the test…

C. Requires a series of three tests done during a single testing session:
a. At rest, off oxygen – shows a non-qualifying result (SpO2> 88%)
b. Exercising, off oxygen – shows a qualifying result (SpO2< 88%)
c. Exercising, on oxygen – shows improvement in test results obtained while exercising off oxygen (as in (b) above).

Who Can Perform 6MWT?

Diagnostic Medical Testing, Inc. is an Independent Diagnostic Testing Facility. Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) and Local Coverage Determinations include a requirement that the test be performed by a “provider who is qualified to bill Medicare for the test – i.e., a Part A provider, a laboratory, an Independent Diagnostic Testing Facility (IDTF), or a physician.”

The testing is performed by either a Respiratory Therapist, Registered Nurse, or Nurse Practitioner in the patient’s home.

Benefits of Using Diagnostic Medical Testing to Perform 6MWT

Use Diagnostic Medical Testing to qualify those patients who had a resting oxygen saturation greater than 88% in the physician’s office or hospital for continuous home oxygen therapy. Count on our qualified Clinicians to properly document the often confusing 3-part test to stand up in an insurance audit. Home-bound patients will not have to return for an office visit with their physician for additional testing.