On Sept. 25, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published a Categorical Waiver for Corrugated Medical Tubing (CMT). Currently, the CMS regulations require compliance with the 2012 NFPA 99 which requires medical gas and vacuum system to be rigid copper tubing. The 2018 NFPA 99 added new provisions that allow for the use of MediTrac.

CMS has reviewed the provisions in the 2018 NFPA 99 and has determined that a Categorical Waiver can be obtained for facilities that wish to use CMT. Those interested can review the CMS waiver (QSO-20-40-LSC) for an explanation of this change and the process for obtaining a Categorical Waiver for the use of CMT. This waiver is posted on the CMS website at www.cms.gov/files/document/qso-20-40-lsc.pdf.

MediTrac, corrugated medical gas tubing that puts healthcare facilities ahead of the curve, is available in 1⁄2-, 3⁄4- 1- and 1 ^1⁄2-inch diameters (with 2-inch diameter approval coming soon). Unlike traditional copper tubing used for medical gas distribution, MediTrac installs up to 80 percent faster than traditional copper with one continuous length from the gas source to a terminal device. MediTrac proves ideal for any new, renovated or retrofitted medical, dental, clinic, laboratory or care facility.

The MediTrac flexible medical gas system (including piping and fittings) has been extensively tested and has passed rigorous qualification requirements, including listing to UL 1365 and recognition under NFPA 99 (2018 edition) as an approved medical piping product.