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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (IA-01) today introduced the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS) Relief Act of 2023, legislation that aims to guarantee that Home Medical Equipment (HME) suppliers can provide their products at an affordable rate. 

“Access to affordable home medical equipment is essential for Americans across the nation, but outdated reimbursement rates have made it increasingly difficult to deliver that vital care,” said Representative Tonko. “That’s why I’m proud to join Congresswoman Miller-Meeks in introducing legislation that will address the rising cost of care, and ensure seniors and all patients who need this lifesaving equipment are supported.”

“Supply chain issues and rising costs extend far beyond the production line,” said Representative Miller-Meeks, M.D. “The Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS) Relief Act of 2023 works to ensure that essential products like ankle orthotics, wheelchairs and walkers, are not delayed by supply chain issues and that they are still affordable and available for patients to use. I am proud to introduce this legislation with Rep. Tonko, and I urge my colleagues to support access to medical equipment that many Americans use daily to improve their quality of life.”

Background:

This legislation would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for certain adjustments to Medicare payments for items of durable medical equipment that were formerly included in round 2021 of the DMEPOS competitive bidding program.

This bill will provide for a 75/25 blended rate (a blend of the 75% current competitive bid rates and 25% unadjusted Medicare fee schedule rates) for non-rural, non-Competitive Bidding Areas through the end of 2024. This legislation will also provide for a 90/10 blended payment rate (90% competitive bid rates/10% unadjusted Medicare fee schedule rates) for former Competitive Bidding Areas (CBAs) until the end of 2024.