General information, not medical advice or an insurance coverage decision. MedraxDME operates as an out of network supplier. Coverage, supplier enrollment requirements and patient responsibility depend on the plan and an individual review.
The tip is part of the prescribed product
In the CMS: October 2026 HCPCS release and quarterly updates, A4352 is the curved tip intermittent catheter category, with or without specified nonhydrophilic coatings. A4351 is the related straight tip category. Neither code identifies the complete manufacturer model or determines the right catheter for an individual.
A curved tip is not simply a premium version to choose from a catalog. Your clinician should determine whether it is appropriate and provide the relevant instructions. Confirm size, length, material, coating and package contents before a substitution is considered. This page does not explain insertion technique or recommend changing supplies without clinical advice.
Check the current coating category
CMS changed the catheter definitions in January 2026 and separated hydrophilic catheters into new categories. A4296 identifies the hydrophilic curved tip category. CMS: 2026 DMEPOS code changes and CMS: DMEPOS fee schedule 2026 update and catheter codes. A product name using both “coude” and “hydrophilic” therefore needs a current classification check rather than automatic assignment to A4352.
If a code on an old record differs from the present package, ask the dispensing organization to investigate. Give it the exact product identity through the appropriate channel. Do not edit a prescription or ask for the coating to be omitted from a description to make the paperwork match.
Clinical need and benefit access remain separate
The CMS: Urological Supplies policy article A52521 and CMS: Urological Supplies coverage policy L33803 describe the applicable Medicare benefit, clinical and documentation requirements. A code match alone does not establish coverage, supply quantity or an eligible supplier arrangement. The clinician's records must support the actual request.
Ask whether a current order is available, whether further documentation is needed for the requested catheter and which organization handles routine replenishment. Do not infer a personal schedule from a published policy maximum. Browse urology supplies and catheter insurance information to prepare that conversation. MedraxDME's contact form is for a basic callback, not for submitting clinical records or member identifiers.
Questions and answers
Can I switch from a straight tip to a coude catheter myself?
The treating clinician should determine the catheter design and instructions. A code comparison is not a recommendation to change products.
Sources and updates
- CMS: October 2026 HCPCS release and quarterly updates
- CMS: 2026 DMEPOS code changes
- CMS: DMEPOS fee schedule 2026 update and catheter codes
- CMS: Urological Supplies policy article A52521
- CMS: Urological Supplies coverage policy L33803
Read our editorial and correction policy. For current plan rules, check the applicable official policy and contact your plan. Tell us about a correction.