Will Medicare approve HPN for fat malabsorption?

• A. Only with ESRD
• B. Yes
• C. No
• D. Only if dialysis

Answer: (B)

Medicare coverage for home parenteral nutrition hinges on medical necessity when the gut cannot absorb nutrients, making IV nutrition a long-term, life-sustaining option. If fat malabsorption is due to a nonfunctional GI tract and the patient requires PN to maintain health at home, Medicare typically approves HPN. This decision is about the function of the GI tract and the need for ongoing PN, not about kidney disease or dialysis status. So, fat malabsorption qualifies for HPN approval when it stems from a nonfunctional gut and long-term PN is required.