On September 18, 2025, the Durable Medicare Equipment Medicare Administrative Contractors (DME MACs) and the Pricing Data Analysis & Coding (PDAC) contractor released long awaited guidance on the use of additive manufacturing/3D printing. In the guidance, they state that 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is an acceptable alternative to traditional custom fabrication. They do stress that any item using these means of fabrication must still “meet the HCPCS long description of the individual HCPCS code, along with any other published coding guidelines.” This guidance has also been incorporated into the Lower Limb Prostheses Policy Article.
In 2024, following the publication of a similar bulletin for custom orthotic fabrication, AOPA representatives and a coalition of manufacturers began discussions with the DME MACs and the PDAC to gain clarification and determine if additive manufacturing would be acceptable for prosthetic fabrication.
This new correct coding reminder is consistent with AOPA’s position that 3D printing/additive manufacturing should be considered a valid fabrication method. It is also another positive step in CMS, DME MACs and PDAC accepting the newer orthotic technologies and reflects the important, trusted relationships AOPA has built with these decision makers.
If you have any questions about this guidance, please contact Joe McTernan at jmcternan@AOPAnet.org or Devon Bernard at dbernard@AOPAnet.org.