The MED Group has launched a new website aimed at answering Medicare beneficiaries' questions and offering sources for durable medical equipment under the new competitive bidding rules that took effect on January 1.
The website at www.medicaresuppliersnetwork.com is intended to help Medicare beneficiaries navigate the changes initiated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a result of the competitive bidding program, which will see the number of suppliers of durable medical equipment significantly reduced. Competitive bidding rules apply only to people on traditional Medicare plans, rather than Medicare Advantage. The intent of the program is to reduce Medicare costs while also lowering out-of-pocket expenses for seniors.
Prior to the new program, traditional Medicare beneficiaries could get their equipment from any referral source. Under competitive bidding, beneficiaries will be required to use a medical equipment supplier from an approved list of contracted suppliers.
The program applies to the following categories of medical equipment:
- Oxygen equipment and supplies;
- Standard power wheelchairs, scooters, and related accessories;
- Complex rehabilitative power wheelchairs and related accessories;
- Mail order replacement diabetic supplies;
- Enteral nutrients, equipment and supplies;
- CPAP, RADS, and related supplies and accessories;
- Hospital beds and related accessories; and
- Walkers and related accessories.
"CMS has tried to educate referral sources and Medicare beneficiaries, but with this large of a change it is nearly impossible to reach such a large segment of the population," said Jeff Woodham, senior vice president and general manager for The MED Group. "This website is helping people by providing the information they need to get the equipment they require for themselves, a loved one or for one of their patients."
Some Medicare patients may be able to keep the same medical equipment supplier if they're an approved and contracted provider with the CMS. A full list of approved suppliers can be found by zip code on the website.