On December 29, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it would delay the start of the Prepayment Review and Prior Authorization of Power Mobility Devices (PMDs) Demonstration Program. CMS originally announced the demonstration program on November 15 and followed the announcement with special Open Door Forums explaining the program’s implications for providers and suppliers. During the Open Door Forums suppliers expressed their concerns that the program would have dire consequences for suppliers of power mobility devices. Some suppliers also questioned CMS’ failure to consult with industry leaders prior to announcing the demonstration program.
The industry’s pressure was effective. CMS’ decision to delay the start of the program was a result of “intensive collaboration” between CMS and AAHomecare. Industry leaders also obtained support from a number of members of Congress who wrote a letter to Marilyn Tavenner, the Acting Administrator of CMS, to delay the implementation of the program and work with industry leaders. In a press release, AAHomecare’s Vice President of Government Affairs, Walt Gorski stated, “we are pleased that CMS has taken a deep breath to understand the power mobility sector and the impact that any widespread prepayment review would have on Medicare beneficiaries and homecare providers.”
It is unclear at this time how long the start of the program will be delayed. CMS stated that it will review the comments and suggestions provided by industry stakeholders and will provide at least 30 days’ notice prior to the demonstration program implementation date.
For more information on the demonstration programs announced on November 15 or assistance with a Medicare audit, please visit www.racattorneys.com or contact a Wachler & Associates attorney at 248-544-0888.