Price Introduces Legislation to Revamp Medicare Bidding Process

Press Release

House Republican Policy Committee Chairman Tom Price, M.D. (R-GA) has introduced legislation to make significant improvements to the Medicare bidding process. "The Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act of 2012" (H.R. 6490) would replace the current Medicare DMEPOS, or "Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies," competitive bidding system with a sustainable market pricing program (MPP) that is based upon sound economic principles that are embraced universally by auction experts across the U.S.

Modifying pricing for DMEPOS would help curb costs and curtail government spending, while assuring patients have the access to the medical supplies they require. To this end, the Secretary of Health and Human Services would contract with an "auction expert" through a competitive process to develop and design the implementation of the MPP. A market monitor would be responsible for the evaluation of the design, implementation and functioning of MPP for the purpose of identifying weaknesses or problems, as well as recommending adjustments and changes.

"Applying common sense, free market principles to the bidding process will ensure that taxpayers get the most for their money while seniors receive the quality technologies and treatments they deserve," Chairman Price said. "Streamlining government to make it more efficient for taxpayers and better for patients is a non-partisan issue. I hope my friends on both sides of the aisle will join me in this effort."

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