Bill > S2951

This bill, known as the "Competitive Bidding Relief Act," directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make specific adjustments to Medicare payments for durable medical equipment (DME) that were previously part of the 2021 Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) competitive bidding program. Specifically, the bill requires the Secretary to extend the current transition rule for payment rates in non-rural and non-noncontiguous areas through December 31, 2025, effectively maintaining current payment methodologies. Additionally, the bill prevents the implementation of a specific regulatory section (414.210(g)(9)(vi)) until January 1, 2026, which would likely change how Medicare calculates payments for these medical equipment items. The legislation allows the Secretary to implement these changes through program instructions or other administrative methods, providing flexibility in how the payment adjustments are carried out. This bill aims to provide stability and predictability in Medicare reimbursement rates for medical equipment providers during the specified timeframe.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2951/all-info