S. 3144 would amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to delay and reform the Medicare competitive acquisition program for purchase of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies.
Detailed Summary
Medicare DMEPOS Competitive Acquisition Reform Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to delay generally until after 2011 full implementation of the Medicare competitive acquisition program for the purchase of durable medical equipment (DME), prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS).
Revises such program, dividing its implementation into two rounds, and specifying covered item updates for 2009-2014.
Prescribes requirements for application of accreditation in implementing quality standards.
Requires suppliers to disclose subcontractors.
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a competitive acquisition ombudsman within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to respond to complaints and inquiries by suppliers and individuals.
Specifies topics for the Comptroller General's required study and report to Congress on the impact of competitive acquisition of DME on suppliers, manufacturers, and patients.
Sets forth a special rule for the competitive acquisition program for diabetic testing strips.
Status of the Legislation
Latest Major Action: 6/17/2008: Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Points in Favor
(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)
Points Against
(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)
Visitor Comments
DD
THIS BILL HAS TO BE SCRAPPED. THE LIVES OF PEOPLE ARE AT STAKE. WHY CAN'T OUR GOVT. UNDERSTAND THIS? ARE OUR ELECTED PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON THAT STUPID?