The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) incorporated some important changes in the DMEPOS CBP for Round 2021. These changes included several initiatives that are part of CMS' ongoing continuous improvement process for the program. Some of this round's changes include:

• New off-the-shelf (OTS) back and knee braces product categories
• Lead item pricing methodology
• Bid surety bonds required for all bidders
• Increased transparency on the bid evaluation process
• Updated features within Connexion, the program's secure portal

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The DMEPOS CBP was mandated by Congress through the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act (MMA) of 2003 and has been an essential tool to help Medicare set more reasonable payment rates for DMEPOS items, save money for beneficiaries and taxpayers, and limit fraud and abuse in the Medicare Program while ensuring access to quality items. Round 2021 of the DMEPOS CBP was implemented on January 1, 2021.

CMS has contracted with Palmetto GBA to operate as the CBIC to assist CMS in administering the DMEPOS CBP. In coordination with CMS, the CBIC is responsible for conducting certain functions including performing bid evaluations, selecting qualified suppliers, setting payments for all competitive bidding areas, and supporting CMS education efforts. The CBIC also assists CMS in monitoring the program's effectiveness and beneficiary access to quality DMEPOS.