News and Updates

New Medicare Competitive Bidding Accreditation Deadline on May 14, 2008

(March 27, 2008)

Important If You May Bid in Round Two

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced deadlines by which suppliers must obtain accreditation status for Medicare Part B if they are planning to bid in Round Two of the Competitive Bidding Program for Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS):

• Suppliers must be accredited or have applied for accreditation by May 14, 2008 to submit a bid for the second round of competitive bidding.  CMS cannot accept a bid from any supplier that is not accredited or that has not applied for accreditation by May 14, 2008.
• Suppliers will need to be accredited to be awarded a contract.  The accreditation deadline for the second round of competitive bidding is October 31, 2008.  Suppliers must be accredited before this date to be awarded a contract.  Suppliers should apply for accreditation immediately to allow adequate time to process their applications.

IMPORTANT.  While a home infusion therapy provider may already be accredited as an infusion pharmacy from the Accreditation Commission for Health Care, the Community Health Accreditation Program or The Joint Commission, this does not necessarily mean it is also accredited for the DMEPOS quality standards.  Some of the accreditors are calling the latter DME accreditation.  Hence, the 2008 deadlines are notable for infusion pharmacies that are considering submitting bids for Round Two.  Suppliers should check with their accreditor to find out the details on what they must have as documentation to satisfy the CMS deadlines.

While home infusion drug therapies have not been included in the Competitive Bidding Program so far, many home infusion providers also supply enteral nutrition therapy which is included.  NHIA members may learn more about Medicare’s competitive bidding and DMEPOS quality standards in NHIA’s Competitive Bidding Resource Center.