MED Suppliers Network: Medicare Suppliers Network Weekly Update-January 20, 2011

CMS Updates Claims Modifiers for Use in the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program

CMS has updated the Article for the Claim Modifier originally issued on January 10, 2011. It clarifies issues on the KY modifier and adds language regarding the use of the modifier. To see the article in full, go to www.cms.gov/MLNMattersArticles/Downloads/SE1035.pdf.

Fraud/Abuse in Competitive Bidding

Be aware that we have identified one company that is sending information to beneficiaries not necessarily in a competitive bidding area telling them that there will be changes in their area beginning January 1, 2011. It also lists other products that are not in competitive bidding. We just wanted you to know it is happening and you may have patients bringing in this information. Please report this to CMS, AA HomeCare, your Senators and Representatives. We are reporting this information as we receive it, but the more information sent to these areas the more help it will be in delivering the message with the problems that are occurring as it relates to Competitive Bidding.

Competitive Bidding Implementation Contractor (CBIC) Ombudsmen

This is a list of the contact information for the Ombudsmen for every CBIC area. This information can be difficult to locate at times and we wanted it to be readily available to you.

Charlotte-Gastonio-Concord, NC/SC
Makisha Pressley-Callaham
704-795-6225

Makisha.P.Callaham@PalmettoGBA.com

Cincinnati-Middletown, OH/KY/IN
Vinsetta Montgomery

614-475-4235

Vinsetta.Montgomery@PalmettoGBA.com

Cleveland-Elyria-Mentor, OH

Kim Scippio

614-475-4235 (temporary)

Kim.Scippio@PalmettoGBA.com

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX

Elena Armstrong

903-868-2705