CMS is moving to the second stage of the Medicare competitive bidding program, which sets lower payment rates for certain medical equipment and supplies, according to a CMS news release.
The competitive bidding program was first implemented on Jan. 1, 2011. Registration for the second phase of the program will begin Dec. 5, and the 60-day supplier bidding period will begin later in Jan. 2012 with the following categories:
• Oxygen, oxygen equipment and supplies.
• Standard wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and related accessories.
• Enteral nutrients, equipment and supplies.
• Continuous positive airway pressure devices and respiratory assist devices with related accessories.
• Hospital beds and related accessories.
• Walkers and related accessories.
• Negative pressure wound therapy pumps and related supplies and accessories.
• Support surfaces.
The competitive bidding program was first implemented on Jan. 1, 2011. Registration for the second phase of the program will begin Dec. 5, and the 60-day supplier bidding period will begin later in Jan. 2012 with the following categories:
• Oxygen, oxygen equipment and supplies.
• Standard wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and related accessories.
• Enteral nutrients, equipment and supplies.
• Continuous positive airway pressure devices and respiratory assist devices with related accessories.
• Hospital beds and related accessories.
• Walkers and related accessories.
• Negative pressure wound therapy pumps and related supplies and accessories.
• Support surfaces.
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