Today, CMS announced the Round 1 2017 suppliers for Medicare’s Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program. These 182 contracts with suppliers comprising 534 locations in the nine metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) making up the Round 1 competitive bidding areas will be effective January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2018.
The product categories subject to competitive bidding in the Round 1 areas include:
- Enteral Nutrients, Equipment, and Supplies
- General Home Equipment and Related Supplies and Accessories
- Nebulizers and Related Supplies
- Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) Pumps and Related Supplies and Accessories
- Respiratory Equipment and Related Supplies and Accessories
- Standard Mobility Equipment and Related Accessories
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Devices and Supplies
A list of suppliers and locations can be found in CMS’ Supplier Directory. Ninety-two percent of all bidders and ninety-three percent of small businesses receiving contract offers accepted CMS’ contract. Bidders who did not receive contracts from CMS have been notified of the reasons why they did not qualify, and had the opportunity to ask follow-up questions. In addition, they may bid again in future rounds.
CMS has committed to continuing their real-time monitoring, feedback, and ombudsman efforts to ensure that beneficiaries are being adequately served by the competitive bidding program. For more information, see CMS’ announcement fact sheet, and if you have questions don’t hesitate to contact Applied Policy at gpugh@appliedpolicy.com or 202-558-5272.