Emergency Preparedness - Information for DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program Suppliers

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) would like to share some important reminders and information to assist Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program (CBP) suppliers (contract suppliers) regarding emergency preparedness.

CMS Resources

CMS provides information and resources for emergency preparedness and response operations, including the granting of specific waivers to certain Medicare requirements under section 1135 of the Social Security Act. Follow the link to the current non-COVID emergencies website for specific emergency preparedness information, including a DMEPOS beneficiary and supplier fact sheet. 

Contingency Planning

The DMEPOS Quality Standards require a contingency plan that enables contract suppliers to respond to emergencies and disasters or to establish arrangements with alternative suppliers in the event the contract supplier cannot service its own customers as the result of an emergency or disaster. Contract 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

Replacement DMEPOS CBP items must be furnished by a contract supplier to beneficiaries residing in a competitive bidding area. There are standard policies in place to process emergency or disaster claims per CMS regulations in the Medicare Claims Processing Manual. Emergency-Related Q&As Without § 1135 Waivers provide specific billing information during an emergency or disaster. Contract suppliers may also contact their Durable Medical Equipment Medicare Administrative Contractor for additional information or guidance.

Competitive Bidding Implementation Contractor (CBIC) Coordination

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, or email CBIC.Admin@PalmettoGBA.com.