The rates DME providers will be paid for eight product categories under round 2 of CMS’ competitive bidding process will realize Medicare savings of some 45% compared to current fee schedule prices.
 
Furthermore, prices for diabetic mail order supplies will see a 72% savings. That’s according to a Jan. 31 CMS announcement of the new rates. Round 2 of the program will take effect in 91metropolitan areas on July 1. Round 1 is currently in effect in nine areas.
 
Of the eight product categories included in the 45% estimate, CMS is projecting the most significant savings for support surfaces (group 2 mattresses and overlays) – 63%.
 
As readers of Home Health Line know, the first round of the competitive bidding process drew concerns from providers who feared patients would not be able to access needed supplies if their supplier failed to win a contract for the product category.