West Va. lawmakers weigh in on bid program
By HME News Staff
Updated Thu May 30, 2019
WASHINGTON - West Virginia's congressional delegation recently sent a letter to CMS Administrator Seema Verma asking her to be mindful of the challenges rural providers face in Round 2021.
“West Virginia is a rural state and our seniors rely on the compassionate care that our small businesses provide, including home delivery, set-up assistance, and prompt service when problems arise such as floods, snowstorms and high winds,” reads the letter. “Without this type of service available, West Virginians who rely on DMEPOS products to survive will be put at risk. We implore you to take into account the unique challenges that small providers in our rural state face as CMS moves forward with Round 2021.”
Regina Gillispie, president and owner of Best Home Medical in Barboursville, took the lead in getting lawmakers to weigh in.
The delegation also raised concerns about CMS's plans to include non-invasive vents in the competitive bidding program.
“NIV products, such as BiPAP and Trilogy machines are used to treat patients with severe COPD,” reads the letter. “By adding them to Round 2021, companies will not have to work with DME providers with specialized knowledge of these products, further reducing access to these important, lifesaving products.”
The bi-partisan letter was signed by Sens. Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito, and Reps. David McKinley, Alex Mooney and Carol Miller.
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