Any member of your office medical staff can be trained to perform testing with the MiniBox+.
MiniBox+™ Frequently Asked Questions
Who can administer the MiniBox+ testing?
How long does it take to do a complete PFT with the MiniBox+?
15-20 minutes.
Isn’t spirometry enough? Can’t we get a pretty good idea of restriction just with spirometry?
ATS guidelines recommend that any time spirometry is conducted, complete PFT is appropriate in order to obtain a differential diagnosis Lung Volume measurement is the only method for diagnosing mixed Restriction and Obstruction.
What is the difference between MiniBox+ testing and other methods such as nitrogen washout and body plethysmography?
You can download comparison tables (“MiniBox+ vs. N2 Washout and Body Box”) from our Resources page.
How many times a year can complete PFT be performed on a patient per ATS/ERS?
ATS/ERS recommends complete PFT every time PFT is indicated, as many times a year as necessary per diagnosis. In the USA, ATS also sets the billing standards accordingly, and complete PFT is reimbursed the vast majority of the time.
What are the CPT reimbursement codes for hospitals and for private practices? (USA only)
The CPT codes for all MiniBox+ tests are listed on our Product page.
How much do insurers actually pay? (USA only)
CPT codes 94060, 94010, 94726, and 94729 are Medicaid and Medicare allowables, commercial insurers typically pay slightly higher.
Does the MiniBox+ interpret the test results or do I need to interpret each test?
All MiniBox+ test results are automatically generated. No need for calculations or interpretation.
Can I add my own testing interpretations?
Yes there’s a “Notes” section in the patient report where you can add your own comments.
Does the MiniBox+ integrate with all EMR systems?
Yes, and we will customize as you request.
How often does the MiniBox+ need to be calibrated?
The system is self-calibrating, so manual calibration is not needed. Verification can be done whenever you like. ATS/ERS guidelines are: Spirometry daily, DLCO weekly.
How do I clean the MiniBox+?
The MiniBox+ only needs an external wipedown. We recommend using Oxivir or other disinfectant wipes. Internal sanitization is not required, since filter protection is 99.9%.
What is the youngest age that I can use the MiniBox+ on?
Age 5.
Do I have to buy gas through PulmOne?
DLco gas is purchased through an independent medical gas distributor. Our customer service facilitator will walk you through the process.
Do you need any special license to have DLco gas in your office?
It varies in different locations. Please check your local regulations.
Do you charge for software updates?
No, all software updates are free.
What is the ROI for the MiniBox+? (USA only)
When testing 5 patients per day for pre- and post-spirometry, DLCO, and LVM plethysmography, the ROI is typically 7 weeks at minimum allowable reimbursement rates.
Will you buy my current PFT equipment?
No we do not purchase any equipment, but we’ll work with you on a deal that makes sense for your practice.
Are there studies that compare the MiniBox+ to a Body Box?
In a groundbreaking, multi-center study published in CHEST in 2021 with 266 participants, lung volumes measured with the MiniBox+™ were shown to be equivalent to body plethysmography (“body box”) in both healthy participants as well as those with lung disease. MiniBox+ lung volumes were more reproducible and correlated better with body plethysmography than the other leading office-based techniques.
Overall, the MiniBox+ has been clinically proven in trials with over 700 patients at 11 medical centers across the USA and Europe.
How long has PulmOne been around and how long has the MiniBox+ been on the market?
PulmOne was founded in 2006 and MiniBox sales started in the USA in 2015.