New Rules for Equipment Bidding
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) updated regulations on the bidding process for durable medical equipment, issuing a final rule on April 2nd.
Beginning 2008, the bidding process will start in ten of the largest urban areas nationally, to expand to 70 areas in 2009. It will include only the most frequently requisitioned equipment; with plans to expand this list in coming years as the ongoing program is implemented.
The intent of the bidding program is Medicare savings, projected to reach $1 billion in 2010 when the entire effort is fully operational. The program’s payment schedule will be updated to reflect rates procured during the bidding process. CMS intends to award multiple contracts to suppliers in the same bidding areas to ensure patient access to needed items and quality.
Related stories:
- Medical Equipment Firms and Fraud
- 2006 Reimbursement Practices: Influence on Medical Device Manufacturers
- Small Suppliers Afraid of Competitive Bidding
- Medicare Looks Harder Before Reimbursing Devices
- Medicare to Introduce Competitive Bidding System
April 5, 2007 Related topics: Legal & legislative, Medical Devices & Products