CMS Launches Competitive Bidding Implementation Web Site
On Friday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the launch of a newly established Web site for competitive bidding implementation. The site is hosted by the implementation contractor, Palmetto GBA, the agency responsible for preparing the request for bids, performing bid evaluations and ensuring suppliers meet all applicable financial and quality standards.
The site will function as a resource for Palmetto GBA's education program for beneficiaries, suppliers and referral agents. HME providers can access tools, instructions and resources for assistance with competitive bidding as well as direct clients and referral sources to the site to learn how competitive bidding will impact them. Many of the functions on the site are still under construction pending the final rule, but providers can sign up to receive e-mail updates.
To access the site, visit www.dmecompetitivebid.com/cbic/cbic.nsf/(pages)/home.
In addition, CMS also encouraged suppliers to provide the National Supplier Clearinghouse (NSC) with up-to-date information for successful authentication necessary for submitting bids.
This article originally appeared in the March 2007 issue of HME Business.