Tonko, Mullin Introduce Bill to Ensure Access to Home Medical Equipment
Statement
Today, Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) introduced the bipartisan Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Relief Act to address unsustainable reimbursement rates hurting Home Medical Equipment (HME) suppliers. These outdated rates, put in place by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), have failed to consider the increased cost of providing care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and are impeding HME suppliers' ability to offer home-based care.
"Now more than ever, Americans need access to affordable home medical equipment, but outdated reimbursement rates for lifesaving medical equipment is making it increasingly difficult for small businesses to deliver that vital care," Tonko said. "I'm proud to join Congressman Mullin to introduce bipartisan legislation that will address the rising cost of care, and will help ensure that our seniors and all patients are supported."
"In my district, many of these small businesses are the only suppliers of home medical equipment for miles. They must stay in business to ensure patient access," Mullin said. "Rural areas already face unique challenges when it comes to quality health care. Access to HME, such as oxygen tanks and walkers, is critical for patients to continue living out their daily lives from the comfort of their homes. I am proud Rep. Tonko is joining me in introducing this bill to help patients get the care they need."
This bill would provide for a new blended rate, as previously used by CMS. Specifically, 90 percent of the rate would come from the current competitive bidding rates and 10 percent would come from the 2015 Medicare fee schedule rates. This would apply to the 13 DME categories that were removed from the current round of the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program. The industry has seen a 50 percent reimbursement cut since 2016, and it is estimated that this legislation will result in a 10-15 percent increase in current reimbursement rates to address significantly rising costs due to both the pandemic and inflation.
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