I am concerned that this will cast disabled people to the lowest bidder and reduce access to the full range of specialized DME, harm the quality of care and restrict beneficiary choice of provider for Medicare beneficiaries.
Under the current Medicare program, the reimbursement level for DME, orthotics, prosthetics and supplies is set by fee schedule.
Under so-called competitive bidding price becomes the sole and determining factor in securing Medicare referrals and the quality of care and range of services provided to the patient will be sacrificed in order to put forth a low bid. The quality of care is bound to suffer as providers search for ways to cut corners and costs so they can make ends meet. It will not take long before providers discontinue product lines that are no longer sufficiently profitable or that require extra time or attention, such as customized wheelchairs designed to fit a specific person.
The government objective for "competitive bidding" it seems is for insurance companies and medicare/medicaid to save money upfront--not caring that people will not receive the proper equipment and care at the beginning.
Is there anyone on this list who has experience with government contracting who would comment?
Any ideas as to what could be added to a critique of this plan-in-the-making?
Marta -- Marta Russell Los Angeles, CA http://www.disweb.org