Emergency and Disaster Fact Sheet

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) would like to share some reminders and information to assist suppliers in the event of an emergency or disaster.

CMS Resources

CMS provides information and resources for Emergency Response and Recovery, including a beneficiary fact sheet and information on waivers to certain Medicare requirements under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act. For any updates to specific disasters, follow the link to the Current Emergencies webpage.

Contingency Planning

The Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Quality Standards require a contingency plan that enables suppliers to respond to emergencies and disasters or to establish arrangements with alternative suppliers in the event the supplier cannot service its own customers as the result of an emergency or disaster. DMEPOS suppliers should review their plans to ensure they are current, all contact information is up to date, and discuss the plan with staff.

Replacement of DMEPOS

In all cases for which Medicare payment for replacing a DMEPOS item is available to beneficiaries residing in a competitive bidding area, the replacement item must be furnished by a contract supplier. CMS has standard policies in place to process emergency or disaster claims according to CMS regulations in the Medicare Claims Processing Manual. For specific billing information during an emergency or disaster, please see the Emergency Q&As Without an 1135 Waiver. Suppliers impacted by a disaster may also contact their regional Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Medicare Administrative Contractor, listed below, for additional information or guidance.

Jurisdiction A - 866-419-9458
Jurisdiction B - 866-590-6727
Jurisdiction C - 866-270-4909
Jurisdiction D - 877-320-0390

CBIC Coordination

In certain circumstances, such as an emergency or disaster, the Competitive Bidding Implementation Contractor (CBIC) may contact contract suppliers to assess their operational status. This information may be beneficial in determining the effects on suppliers in the region and potential impacts to Medicare beneficiaries. Contract suppliers seeking additional information should call the CBIC customer service center at 877-577-5331 between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. prevailing Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.