AARC Supports Bill to Replace DMEPOS Competitive Bidding

October 8, 2012

The competitive bidding program established by Medicare to rein in the costs of home medical equipment for beneficiaries may be adversely affecting the ability of pulmonary patients to access key equipment and services they need to maintain an adequate quality of life.

Now Congressman Tom Price (R-GA) has introduced legislation that would replace the flawed competitive bidding program with a market pricing system many believe would improve access to services for patients while still holding the line on costs.

The AARC has sent a letter to Congressman Price supporting HR 6490, The Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act of 2012. Our letter is also being shared with members of the U.S. COPD Coalition on their website.

The letter specifically advocates for adequate reimbursement for patient and caregiver education and support, timely service in the event a device is not functioning properly, access to backup equipment, routine system operation verification and maintenance, assessment of the home environment, and evaluation of patient compliance with equipment use.