|
Understanding Medicare’s Competitive
Bidding
Program for Diabetes Testing Supplies
What is Competitive Bidding?
Under this program, Medicare determines the amount paid for certain equipment and supplies in specific areas of the country.
When is this program effective?
The program starts January 1, 2011.
Is this the same thing that happened in 2008?
Yes. The program was in place briefly in 2008 but was delayed.
Does this impact Medicare Advantage plans purchased through private insurance companies?
No. Medicare Advantage plans are excluded from this program.
This program only impacts Medicare beneficiaries who live in certain ZIP codes in certain areas of the country.
Areas affected :
- Cincinnati – Middletown (OH, KY, IN)
- Cleveland – Elyria – Mentor (OH)
- Charlotte – Gastonia – Concord (NC, SC)
- Dallas – Fort Worth – Arlington (TX)
- Kansas City (MO, KS)
- Miami – Fort Lauderdale – Pompano Beach (FL)
- Orlando – Kissimmee (FL)
- Pittsburgh (PA)
- Riverside – San Bernardino – Ontario (CA)
Check to see if your ZIP code is affected.
The ONLY affected supplies offered by CCS Medical are:
Diabetes Testing Supplies
- test strips
- lancets
- lancing device
- control solution
- meter replacement batteries
IMPORTANT:
Insulin pump and associated supplies are NOT included in this program. For a list of other supplies that are affected by this program,
Click Here
.
Will CCS Medical still be able to provide my diabetes testing supplies after January 1, 2011?
For now you can continue to get your diabetes testing supplies from CCS Medical and we will notify you as we learn more. CCS Medical has actively participated in the process. Medicare has established a timeline for announcements and official contracted suppliers will be announced late 2010.
What will Medicare do?
CCS Medical anticipates some communication will be coming from Medicare in late 2010 to effected beneficiaries. If you receive this letter and have questions, please contact CCS Medical to determine if our service is still an option for you.
What do I need to do?
Currently, you do not need to do anything. You can continue to get your diabetes testing supplies from CCS Medical. CCS Medical will communicate with you as more details become available.
What if another supplier contacts me before January 1, 2011 and tells me that I need to change suppliers?
The program start date is set by Medicare and is January 1, 2011. As a Medicare beneficiary, you do have a choice of providers and we appreciate you choosing CCS Medical. You do not need to change suppliers unless CCS Medical is not selected by Medicare to be a contracted supplier. We will not know the exact details until late 2010.
CCS Medical is your source for information.
We are here for you with every step to help you understand your insurance benefits and provide you with high quality diabetes testing supplies.
For more information call:
1-800-892-2389
CCS Medical Competitive Bidding Hotline
|
