C E N T E R S F O R M E D I C A R E & M E D I C A I D S E R V I C E S

to Medicare’s Durable Medical Equipment, 

Prosthetics, Orthotics, & Supplies (DMEPOS) 

Competitive Bidding Program
The information in this booklet describes the Medicare Program at the time 

this booklet was printed. Changes may occur after printing. Visit Medicare.gov, 

or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to get the most current information. 

TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

“Your Guide to Medicare’s Durable Medical Equipment Prosthetics, Orthotics, 

& Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program” isn’t a legal document. 

Official Medicare Program legal guidance is contained in the relevant statutes, 

regulations, and rulings.
Table of contents 3

Section 1: Introduction 5

What's the Competitive Bidding Program? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Using a Medicare contract or grandfathered supplier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Am I affected if I’m in a Medicare Advantage Plan? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Areas & items included in the program 7

Who is affected by this program? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

How can I find out which ZIP codes are included in the competitive 

bidding program? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

What Medicare will pay 11

Do I have to get my medical equipment and/or supplies from a 

Medicare contract supplier? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Do I have to change suppliers if I was renting equipment from a supplier 

that doesn’t have a new contract with Medicare? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Where can I find DMEPOS suppliers I can use in my area? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

What happens if my supplier doesn’t have a new contract and decides 

NOT to become a grandfathered supplier? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

What if I don’t hear from my supplier? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

I have Medicare and Medicaid. Will Medicaid cover an item I get from a 

non-contract supplier if Medicare doesn’t cover it? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Do I have to change doctors? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

What if I need a specific brand or mode of delivery of a competitively bid 

item or service? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

What if I travel away from home and need to get medical equipment 

or supplies? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Section 2:

Section 3:
4 Table of contents

Section 4: Cost 17

Will my costs change? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Do I still have to pay my deductible? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

How does Medicare pay for equipment or supplies if I have other insurance? . . . 17

What if I get my medical equipment or supplies from a supplier who 

isn’t a Medicare contract supplier? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Item-specific information 19

What do I need to know if I buy diabetic supplies, like test strips or lancets? . 19

What do I need to know if I use enteral nutrients, supplies, and equipment? . 20

What do I need to know if I use a walker? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

What do I need to know if I use oxygen, oxygen equipment, and supplies? . . . 22

What do I need to know if I rent: 

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, respiratory assist 

devices (RADs), walkers, standard power wheelchairs, scooters, 

hospital beds, support surfaces (including certain mattresses and overlays), 

transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices, commode 

chairs, nebulizers, patient lifts, seat lifts, negative pressure wound 

therapy pumps, or external infusion pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

What do I need to know if I need to repair and replace equipment I own? . . . 25

Where can I get more information about the Competitive Bidding Program? . . . 26

Rights & protections 27

What if I have a complaint? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

How can Medicare contract suppliers advertise? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

What other rules must Medicare contract suppliers follow? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Can a Medicare contract supplier work with other suppliers to get 

what I need? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Who do I contact if I don’t think a supplier is following these rules? . . . . . . . . 29

Section 5:

Section 6:
5

SECTION

1 Introduction

What's the Competitive Bidding Program? 

Medicare’s Competitive Bidding Program for durable medical equipment, 

prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS):

•	 Changes the amount Medicare pays for certain DMEPOS items 

•	 Makes changes to which suppliers Medicare will pay to supply these 

items to you 

Under this program, suppliers submit bids to provide certain medical 

equipment and supplies. Medicare uses these bids to set the amount 

it will pay for those equipment and supplies under the competitive 

bidding program. Qualified, accredited suppliers with winning bids are 

chosen as Medicare contract suppliers. The program: 

•	 Helps you and Medicare save money 

•	 Ensures that you have access to quality medical equipment, supplies, 

and services from suppliers you can trust 

•	 Helps limit Medicare fraud and abuse 
6 Section 1: Introduction

Using a Medicare contract or grandfathered supplier

If you have Original Medicare, live in one of the competitive bidding areas, and 

use equipment or supplies included under the program (or get the items while 

visiting a competitive bidding area), you generally must use Medicare contract 

suppliers if you want Medicare to help pay for the item. If you live in one of the 

competitive bidding areas and you’re renting oxygen equipment or certain other 

durable medical equipment (DME) at the time the program starts, you can continue 

renting these items from your current supplier if that supplier gets a new contract 

or decides to participate in the program as a “grandfathered” supplier. If you live in 

(or get these items while visiting) these areas and don’t use a Medicare contract or a 

grandfathered supplier, Medicare probably won’t pay for the item, and you may have 

to pay full price. It’s important to know if you’re affected by this program to make 

sure Medicare will help pay for your item and to avoid any disruption of service.

Am I affected if I’m in a Medicare Advantage Plan? 

The competitive bidding program applies to Original Medicare only. If you’re 

enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your plan will notify 

you if your supplier is changing. If you’re not sure, contact your plan.
7

SECTION

Areas & items included 

in the program 2 Who is affected by this program? 

The program is operating in 100 metropolitan areas of the country, with 9 

areas referred to as Round 1 areas and 91 areas referred to as Round 2 areas.

Beginning January 1, 2014, you may be affected by this program if you live 

in (or get competitive bid items while visiting) addresses with ZIP codes 

included in these 9 Round 1 areas:

•	Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill (North Carolina and South Carolina) 

•	Cincinnati-Middletown (Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana) 

•	Cleveland-Elyria-Mentor (Ohio) 

•	Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (Texas) 

•	Kansas City (Missouri and Kansas) 

•	Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach (Florida) 

•	Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford (Florida) 

•	Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania) 

•	Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario (California)

•	Support surfaces (Group 1 and 2 

mattresses and overlays)

•	Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve 

Stimulation (TENS) devices

•	Nebulizers

•	Commode chairs

•	Patient lifts

•	Seat lifts

•	External infusion pumps and supplies

•	Walkers and related accessories

The general categories of items included in the program for the areas listed above are:

•	Standard (power and manual) wheelchairs, scooters, 

and related accessories

•	Enteral nutrients, equipment, and supplies

•	Oxygen, oxygen equipment, and supplies

•	Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) 

devices, respiratory assist devices (RADs), and 

related supplies and accessories

•	Hospital beds and related accessories

•	Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) pumps, 

and related supplies and accessories
8 Section 2: Areas & items included in the program

Who is affected by this program? (continued)

Beginning July 2013, you may also be affected by this program if you live in (or get 

competitive bid items while visiting) addresses with ZIP codes in the 91 Round 2 areas below 

and on page 9: 

 Midwest

Akron, OH

Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL-IN-WI

Columbus, OH

Dayton, OH

Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI

Flint, MI

Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI

Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH

Indianapolis-Carmel, IN

Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI

Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI

Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA

St. Louis, MO-IL

Toledo, OH

Wichita, KS

Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA

 Northeast

Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY 

Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ 

Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH 

Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT 

Buffalo-Niagara Falls, NY 

Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT 

New Haven-Milford, CT 

New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island, 

 NY-NJ-PA 

Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD 

Poughkeepsie-Newburgh-Middletown, NY 

Providence-New Bedford-Fall River, RI-MA 

Rochester, NY 

Scranton-Wilkes-Barre, PA 

Springfield, MA 

Syracuse, NY 

Worcester, MA

West

Phoenix-Mesa-Glendale, AZ

Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA

Sacramento-Arden-Arcade-Roseville, CA

Salt Lake City, UT

San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos, CA

San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA

San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA

Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA

Stockton, CA

Tucson, AZ

Visalia-Porterville, CA

Albuquerque, NM

Bakersfield-Delano, CA

Boise City-Nampa, ID

Colorado Springs, CO

Denver-Aurora-Broomfield, CO

Fresno, CA

Honolulu, HI

Las Vegas-Paradise, NV

Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, CA

Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA
Section 2: Areas & items included in the program 9

South

Knoxville, TN

Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL

Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR

Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN

McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX

Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, TN

New Orleans-Metairie-Kenner, LA

North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota, FL

Ocala, FL

Oklahoma City, OK

Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL

Raleigh-Cary, NC

Richmond, VA

San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX

Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL

Tulsa, OK

Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC

Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV

Asheville, NC

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta, GA

Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC

Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX

Baltimore-Towson, MD 

Baton Rouge, LA

Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX

Birmingham-Hoover, AL

Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL

Charleston-North Charleston-Summerville, SC

Chattanooga, TN-GA

Columbia, SC

Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, FL

El Paso, TX

Greensboro-High Point, NC

Greenville-Mauldin-Easley, SC

Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown, TX

Jackson, MS

Jacksonville, FL

The items included in the program for the Round 2 areas listed on pages 8 and 9 are:

•	Standard (power and manual) wheelchairs, scooters, and related accessories

•	Walkers and related accessories

•	Enteral nutrients, equipment, and supplies

•	Oxygen, oxygen equipment, and supplies

•	Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, respiratory assist devices (RADs), 

and related supplies and accessories

•	Hospital beds and related accessories

•	Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) pumps, related supplies, and accessories

•	Support surfaces (Group 2 mattresses and overlays)

To check if an item you use is included in the program, visit Medicare.gov/supplier, or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
10 Section 2: Areas & items included in the program

Note: Medicare has a National Mail-Order Program for diabetic testing supplies.

No matter where you live, you’ll need to use a Medicare national mail-order contract 

supplier for Medicare to pay for diabetic testing supplies that are delivered to your 

home. If you don’t want diabetic testing supplies delivered to your home, you can go to 

any local store (local pharmacy or storefront supplier) that’s enrolled in Medicare and 

buy them there. This program doesn't require you to change your testing monitor.

If you're happy with your current monitor, look for a mail-order contract supplier or 

local store that can provide the supplies you need.

How can I find out which ZIP codes are included in the 

competitive bidding program? 

To find out if your ZIP code is included, visit Medicare.gov/supplier, or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

If your permanent residence is in one of these ZIP codes, then the new program applies 

to you. Your permanent residence is the address that Social Security has on file for you.
11

SECTION

What Medicare will pay 3

Do I have to get my medical equipment and/or supplies 

from a Medicare contract supplier? 

If your doctor or treating health care provider orders equipment or supplies 

that are included in the competitive bidding program where you live or visit, 

you generally must get your equipment or supplies from a Medicare contract 

supplier for Medicare to pay for the item. However, in certain cases, your doctor 

or treating health care provider can sometimes supply a walker, folding manual 

wheelchair, or external infusion pump*:

•	 When you’re getting other medical care even if he or she isn’t a Medicare 

contract supplier.

•	 If you’re hospitalized and need one while you’re admitted or on the day 

you’re discharged from the hospital.

You may also be able to continue to rent some types of medical equipment from 

your current supplier, if that supplier chooses to be a “grandfathered” supplier.

In these situations, Medicare will still help you pay for these items.

*External infusion pumps are included in the competitive bidding program 

only within the nine areas listed on page 7.
12 Section 3: What Medicare will pay

Do I have to change suppliers if I was renting equipment 

from a supplier that doesn’t have a new contract with 

Medicare? 

Before the start of each new competitive bidding contract period, for example, 

before January 1, 2014, in the 9 Round 1 areas, if you're renting oxygen equipment 

or other durable medical equipment (DME) and your supplier doesn’t get a new 

contract, you may still be able to stay with that supplier if they decide to be a 

grandfathered supplier. This means a supplier may continue to rent equipment to 

you if you were renting the equipment when the program started. This rule applies 

only to oxygen and oxygen equipment, and rented DME. You may continue using 

the grandfathered supplier until the rental period for your equipment ends. If you 

start renting additional equipment from a grandfathered supplier after the program 

starts, Medicare won’t pay for the new equipment. If you were renting equipment 

that’s eligible for grandfathering, your supplier should have let you know in writing 

30 business days before the program began whether it would or wouldn’t become a 

grandfathered supplier.

Once you own the equipment, you must get replacement supplies and accessories 

for the equipment from a contract supplier for Medicare to help you pay for these 

items. 

If you already own your equipment, you’ll need to use a Medicare contract supplier 

for your replacement supplies and accessories, like masks used with the CPAP device. 

Where can I find DMEPOS suppliers I can use in my area? 

For a list of suppliers you can use in your area, go to Medicare.gov/supplier.

You can also get this information by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

A customer service representative can help you find a supplier. TTY users should 

call 1-877-486-2048.
Section 3: What Medicare will pay 13

What happens if my supplier doesn’t have a new contract 

and decides NOT to become a grandfathered supplier? 

You need to decide whether to continue to rent from your current supplier and pay all 

the costs, or switch to a Medicare contract supplier. A supplier that doesn’t have a new 

contract and decides not to become a grandfathered supplier is required to notify you 

and pick up the item from your home after the program starts. Your supplier must 

notify you 3 times before it can pick up the item: 

1. The supplier must send you a letter at least 30 business days before the program 

starts telling you that it will no longer provide rental items to you after a certain 

date. This letter will tell you the date that a Medicare contract supplier must start 

to provide you with the rented item.

2. Before the supplier can pick up your equipment, it must call you 10 days before 

picking up the item to make arrangements for pick up at an agreed upon time.

3. The supplier must call you again 2 business days before picking up the item.

A supplier that isn’t grandfathered can't pick up a medically necessary item(s) before 

the end of the last rental month for which the supplier is eligible to get a rental 

payment, even if the end of the last rental month occurs on or after January 1, 2014.

If you change to a Medicare contract supplier, your old supplier should work with 

the contract supplier so there isn’t a break in service. Keep the pickup slip or other 

documentation from the supplier that shows you no longer have the item.

Example: 

If your last rental month began on December 27, 2014, your current supplier must 

continue to provide the equipment you need until January 28, 2015. Your current 

supplier must work with your new contract supplier to get equipment to you on 

January 28, 2015. It must make sure that there's no lapse in your treatment because of 

this change.

What if I don’t hear from my supplier? 

If you don’t hear from your supplier, you should contact them. You need to find out 

if it's a contract supplier or a grandfathered supplier. If it isn't, you may need to find a 

Medicare contract supplier for Medicare to pay.
14

I have Medicare and Medicaid. Will Medicaid cover an item I 

get from a non-contract supplier if Medicare doesn’t cover it? 

If you have Medicare and Medicaid and live in a competitive bidding area, you'll 

have to get supplies and equipment from a Medicare-contract supplier. Medicaid 

will pay the cost-sharing amounts (deductibles and coinsurance) for those services.

•	 If you’re a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) only, Medicaid pays Medicare 

deductibles, coinsurance, and copayment amounts only. If Medicare denies 

payment, Medicaid won’t pay for the item.

•	 If you’re a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Plus, Specified Low-Income 

Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Plus, or other Full Benefit Dual Eligible (FBDE) 

beneficiary, you'll still be able to get supplies and equipment that Medicare doesn’t 

cover, but your state Medicaid program does, from any Medicaid-participating 

provider.

Do I have to change doctors? 

No. This program doesn’t affect which doctors you can use.

What if I need a specific brand or mode of delivery of a 

competitively bid item or service? 

If you need a particular brand or mode of delivery of an item or service in order to 

avoid an adverse medical outcome, your doctor must prescribe the specific brand 

or mode of delivery in writing. Your doctor must document in your medical record 

why this specific brand or mode of delivery is needed in order to avoid an adverse 

medical outcome. In these situations, a Medicare contract supplier is required to: 

•	 Give you the exact brand or mode of delivery of the item or service your doctor 

authorizes for you

•	 Help you find another contract supplier that offers that brand or mode of delivery

•	 Work with your doctor to find an appropriate alternative brand or mode of delivery 

and get a revised written prescription

Section 3: What Medicare will pay
Section 3: What Medicare will pay 15

What if I travel away from home and need to get medical equipment 

or supplies? 

If you live in an area participating in the program and travel outside the area in which you live 

for most of the year, you may or may not need to use a contract supplier to get items you need 

while you're away. If you travel to an area that is not included in the program, you don't have 

to get the items from a contract supplier, unless the items are mail order diabetic supplies.

In all cases (other than supplies delivered to the Northern Mariana Islands), you must get 

mail order diabetic supplies from a contract supplier. If you travel to an area included in the 

program, you must get any medical equipment or supplies included in the program from a 

Medicare contract supplier if you want Medicare to help you pay for it. Your out-of-pocket 

costs will be the same as when you're at your permanent home. You’ll still be responsible for 

paying the 20% coinsurance after meeting your yearly Part B deductible.

If you permanently live in... And travel to...

Medicare will help 

you pay for supplies 

furnished by...

An area participating in the program A different area 

participating in the 

program

A Medicare contract 

supplier located in the 

area you traveled to for 

items included in the 

program*

An area participating in the program An area NOT 

participating in the 

program

Any Medicare-approved 

supplier

An area NOT participating in the 

program

An area 

participating in the 

program

A Medicare contract 

supplier located in the 

area you traveled to for 

items included in the 

program*

An area NOT participating in the 

program

An area NOT 

participating in the 

program

Any Medicare-approved 

supplier

* If you don’t use a Medicare contract supplier, the supplier may ask you to sign an “Advance 

Beneficiary Notice” (ABN). This notice tells you that Medicare probably won’t pay for the item 

or service. The supplier may require you to pay for the full cost of the item.
16 Section 3: What Medicare will pay

Notes
17

SECTION

Cost

4 Will my costs change? 

Yes. Competitively bid payment amounts are less than what Medicare pays in 

areas that aren’t competitive bidding areas. When Medicare pays less, you’ll 

pay less too.

It’s important to know that for any equipment or supplies that are included 

in the competitive bidding program, the Medicare contract supplier can’t 

charge you more than the 20% coinsurance and any unmet yearly deductible.

If you think that you’re paying more coinsurance than the Medicare-approved 

amount, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 

1-877-486-2048.

Do I still have to pay my deductible? 

Yes. You still have to pay your yearly Part B deductible whether or not you live 

in a competitive bidding area or the equipment or supplies your doctor orders 

are included in the program. Each year, you must pay the deductible before 

Medicare starts to pay its share. After you meet the deductible, Medicare pays 

80% of the Medicare-approved amount for equipment, supplies, and services.

How does Medicare pay for equipment or supplies if I 

have other insurance? 

If you have other insurance that pays before Medicare, it may require you 

to use a supplier that isn’t a contract supplier. In those cases, Medicare may 

make a secondary payment to that supplier. The supplier must meet Medicare 

enrollment standards and be eligible to get secondary payments from 

Medicare. For more information, check with your insurance company, plan 

provider, or benefits administrator.
18

What if I get my medical equipment or supplies from a 

supplier who isn’t a Medicare contract supplier? 

If you live in one of the competitive bidding areas, get an item included in the 

program from a supplier who isn’t a Medicare contract supplier, and none of the 

exceptions found on page 11, under Do I have to get my medical equipment 

and/or supplies from a Medicare contract supplier? apply, Medicare will most 

likely not pay for the item. In these situations, you may be asked to sign an 

“Advance Beneficiary Notice” (ABN). This notice tells you that Medicare probably 

won’t pay for the item or service, and that you may be responsible for paying the 

entire cost.

Section 4: Cost
19

SECTION

Item-specific information

5 What do I need to know if I buy diabetic supplies, 

like test strips or lancets? 

Medicare has implemented a national mail-order program for diabetic 

testing supplies. The national mail-order program includes the 50 states, 

the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U .S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and 

American Samoa.

This program allows you to continue getting quality supplies while saving 

money. The term mail-order includes all home deliveries. You need to use 

a Medicare national mail-order contract supplier for Medicare to pay for 

your mail-order diabetic testing supplies that are delivered to your home.

If you don’t want your diabetic testing supplies delivered to your home, 

you can go to any local store that's enrolled with Medicare and buy them 

there.

Medicare’s allowed payment amount is the same for mail-order and 

non-mail-order diabetic testing supplies. National mail-order contract 

suppliers can’t charge you more than any unmet deductible and 20% 

coinsurance. Local stores also can’t charge more than the deductible and 

20% coinsurance if they accept assignment, which means they accept 

Medicare’s allowed amount as payment in full. Local stores that don’t 

accept Medicare assignment may charge more than 20% coinsurance and 

any unmet deductible. Therefore, if you get your supplies from a local 

store, check with the store to find out what your copayment will be.

Here are some other points to remember:

•	 This program doesn’t require that you change your testing monitor.

If you’re happy with your current monitor, look for a mail-order 

contract supplier or local store that can provide the supplies you need.
20

What do I need to know if I buy diabetic supplies like test strips 

or lancets (continued)?

•	 If you switch suppliers, you might need to get a new prescription for testing 

supplies or arrange to have your current prescription transferred. Plan ahead 

before you run out of supplies.

•	 Contract suppliers can’t make you switch to another glucose monitor and testing 

supplies brand. Contract suppliers must provide the brand of testing supplies 

that works with your monitor. If the contract supplier doesn’t carry your brand of 

testing supplies, you can ask the contract supplier about other brands they offer.

However, the supplier can’t start this conversation.

•	 Medicare has rules to protect you from uninvited supplier phone calls. If you 

believe you've been pressured to switch suppliers, call 1-800-MEDICARE 

(1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

What do I need to know if I use enteral nutrients, supplies, 

and equipment? 

•	 If you’re getting these supplies or equipment in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) 

or nursing facility, you don’t need to do anything. The facility will make sure that 

you get your Medicare-covered enteral nutrients, supplies, and equipment.

•	 If you permanently live in a competitive bidding area, you’ll need to get your 

enteral nutrients and supplies (feeding supplies) from a Medicare contract supplier 

for Medicare to pay. If your current supplier isn’t a contract supplier, then you’ll 

probably have to change to a contract supplier for Medicare to help pay.

•	 Depending on how long you've been renting your enteral nutrition equipment 

(feeding pump), you might not need to get the equipment from a contract 

supplier.

– If you’ve been renting an enteral infusion pump on a continuous basis for 

at least 15 months, your supplier must continue to provide you with the 

pump as long as it's medically necessary, even if the supplier isn’t a contract 

supplier. If your current supplier isn’t a contract supplier, your supplier can’t 

pick up the pump from you because Medicare is still covering it.

Section 5: Item-specific information
Section 5: Item-specific information 21

What do I need to know if I use enteral nutrients, supplies, and 

equipment? (continued)

– If you’ve been renting an enteral infusion pump for less than 15 months, 

and your current supplier isn’t a Medicare contract supplier under the 

program, then you’ll have to change suppliers for Medicare to pay. However, 

your current supplier isn’t allowed to pick up any equipment or supplies 

from you until the last day of the last rental month that began before the 

program started. Your current supplier and your Medicare contract supplier 

must work together and coordinate to make sure you have the equipment 

you need. For example, if you've paid for a rental pump with your current 

supplier through the end of December, they must continue to provide the 

equipment you need through December 31 and make sure they work with 

your new contract supplier so you don’t have any breaks in service.

What do I need to know if I use a walker?

•	 If you need a replacement walker, you may need to find a contract supplier for 

Medicare to help you pay for the item.

•	 If you’re renting these types of equipment when the program starts, you may 

be able to stay with your current supplier if your supplier gets a new contract 

or chooses to become a grandfathered supplier. Your supplier will let you know 

in writing 30 business days before the program starts whether it will or won’t 

become a grandfathered supplier. See page 6.
22

What do I need to know if I use a walker? (continued)

•	 When you switch to a Medicare contract supplier, your current supplier and 

your new Medicare contract supplier must work together to make sure you have 

the equipment you need.

•	 You can use any Medicare-enrolled supplier (including a non-contract supplier) 

to make repairs to a walker or wheelchair that you currently own, including 

replacement parts needed for the repair. See page 25.

What do I need to know if I use oxygen, oxygen equipment, 

and supplies? 

•	 If your current supplier is a Medicare contract supplier, you don’t have to do 

anything. You’ll continue to get your oxygen or oxygen equipment as usual, and 

Medicare will continue to help pay.

•	 If you’re renting these types of equipment from a non-contract supplier when 

the program starts, you may have the choice to stay with your current supplier if 

your supplier chooses to become a grandfathered supplier. Your supplier will let 

you know in writing 30 business days before the program starts whether it will 

or won’t become a grandfathered supplier. See page 6.

•	 When you switch to a Medicare contract supplier, your current supplier and 

your new Medicare contract supplier must work together and coordinate to 

make sure you have the equipment you need.

Section 5: Item-specific information
23

What do I need to know if I use oxygen, oxygen equipment, 

and supplies? (continued)

Under current rules for oxygen, Medicare pays suppliers a monthly fee for 

providing all medically necessary oxygen and oxygen equipment, including 

accessories and supplies, like tubing or a mouthpiece. Assuming that you've 

met your yearly Part B deductible, Medicare pays 80% of the allowed amount, 

and you pay 20%. After 36 months of continuous use, Medicare stops making 

rental payments for the oxygen equipment, but, in almost all cases, you'll 

continue to get the oxygen equipment, accessories, and supplies from the 

same supplier with no rental charge until the end of the reasonable useful 

lifetime of the oxygen equipment (generally 5 years after the date that the 

equipment was delivered to you). If you've been renting your equipment for 

27–35 months and you switch to a Medicare contract supplier, you may have 

to pay for renting the equipment for a few months longer than expected (from 

1–9 months beyond the 36 month period) before your rental payments stop. 

This will result in additional months of coinsurance.

However, the amount you pay may be lower than before. Talk with your 

new supplier about how this affects you, or call 1-800-MEDICARE 

(1-800-633-4227) for more information. TTY users should call 

1-877-486-2048.

•	 If you've been renting your equipment for 36 months, you don’t need to do 

anything. Your current supplier must continue to provide your equipment at 

no additional rental charge until the equipment needs to be replaced because 

it has reached the end of its reasonable useful lifetime. When your equipment 

needs to be replaced because it’s too old, you’ll need to get replacement 

equipment from a contract supplier.

Section 5: Item-specific information
24 Section 5: Item-specific information

What do I need to know if I rent 

•	 Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices,

•	 respiratory assist devices (RADs),

•	 walkers,

•	 standard power wheelchairs,

•	 scooters,

•	 hospital beds,

•	 support surfaces (including certain mattresses and overlays),

•	 transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices,*

•	 commode chairs,*

•	 nebulizers,*

•	 patient lifts,*

•	 seat lifts,*

•	 negative pressure wound therapy pumps,* or

•	 external infusion pumps?*

First, you need to determine if you reside in a ZIP code that is part of the DMEPOS 

Competitive Bidding Program. To do this, visit Medicare.gov/supplier, or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

If you don't live in a ZIP code that's part of the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding 

Program, you can continue to rent your equipment from any enrolled DMEPOS 

supplier. If you live in a ZIP code that's part of the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding 

Program, you should see if the item you're renting is a competitively bid item for 

your area as items listed with an asterisk above are part of the program in some but 

not all competitive bidding areas.

See pages 7–9.

If you live in a competitive bidding area and are renting a competitively-bid item:

•	 If your current supplier is a Medicare contract supplier, you don’t have to do 

anything. You’ll continue to get your equipment as usual, and Medicare will 

continue to help pay.

•	 If you’re renting these types of equipment from a non-contract supplier when the 

program starts, you may be able to stay with your current supplier if your supplier 

gets a new contract or chooses to become a grandfathered supplier. Your supplier 

will let you know in writing 30 business days before the program starts whether it 

will or won’t become a grandfathered supplier. See page 6.
Section 5: Item-specific information 25

What do I need to know if I rent (continued)

•	 When you switch to a Medicare contract supplier, your current supplier and your 

new Medicare contract supplier must work together to make sure you have the 

equipment you need.

•	 Under current Medicare rules, you own these types of equipment after renting 

them for 13 months. When you switch to a Medicare contract supplier instead 

of using a grandfathered supplier or other non-contract supplier, your 13-month 

rental period will start over, so you won’t own the equipment until after the new 

rental period ends. This will extend your rental period and result in additional 

months of coinsurance. However, the amount you pay may be lower.

•	 Once you own the equipment, you must get replacement supplies and accessories 

for the equipment from a contract supplier for Medicare to help you pay for 

these items. You may get repairs for the equipment you own from any Medicareapproved supplier (even a non-contract supplier), including replacement parts 

needed for the repair.

•	 If you already own your equipment, you’ll need to use a Medicare contract 

supplier for your replacement supplies and accessories, like masks used with the 

CPAP device. 

What do I need to know if I need to repair and replace 

equipment I own? 

•	 If you own medical equipment that's included in the program, you can use 

any Medicare-approved supplier (even a non-contract supplier) for repairs 

or replacement parts needed for the repair of your equipment. Before your 

equipment is serviced, make sure the supplier is enrolled in Medicare so 

Medicare can help pay. A “Medicare-enrolled” supplier means any supplier that 

can submit claims to Medicare.

•	 If you need to replace your medical equipment, you must use a Medicare contract 

supplier for Medicare to help pay for the equipment.

•	 Medicare doesn’t pay for repairs that are covered under a manufacturer’s or 

supplier’s warranty. If you need warranty repairs, follow the warranty rules.

•	 If you’re renting medical equipment, repair costs are included in the rental 

payments. The supplier renting you the equipment must fix it at no additional 

charge to you.
26 Section 5: Item-specific information

What do I need to know if I need to repair and replace 

equipment I own? (continued)

•	 Accessories for equipment like CPAP tubing and masks are replacement items. 

These items must be provided by a contract supplier for Medicare to pay. If 

you continue renting durable medical equipment (DME) from a grandfathered 

supplier, that supplier can also provide replacement accessories for use with the 

equipment for as long as the equipment is rented rather than owned by you.

Blood glucose test strips and lancets are also replacement items and in all cases 

must be provided by a mail-order contract supplier if you get them delivered to 

your home and don't pick them up in person at a local store.

•	 If Original Medicare already paid for DME (like a wheelchair or walker) or 

supplies (like diabetic supplies) and it has been damaged or lost due to an 

emergency or disaster:

– In certain cases, Medicare may cover the cost to repair or replace your 

equipment or supplies

– Generally, Medicare may also cover the cost of rentals for items (such as 

wheelchairs) during the time your equipment is being repaired

If a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare health plan paid for your 

equipment or supplies, contact your plan directly to find out how it replaces 

DME or supplies damaged or lost in an emergency or disaster. You also can call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to get more information about how to 

replace your equipment or supplies.

Where can I get more information about the Competitive 

Bidding Program? 

If you’re currently renting, own, or need DME or supplies and have any questions 

about what’s covered or about suppliers, you can get information by: 

•	 Visiting Medicare.gov/supplier to find Medicare contract suppliers in your area 

and information about the program.

•	 Calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 

1-877-486-2048.

•	 Calling your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free health 

insurance counseling and personalized help understanding the program.

To get the phone number for your state, visit shiptacenter.org, or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
27

SECTION

Rights & protections

6 What if I have a complaint?

You may file a complaint with your supplier. The supplier must let 

you know they got your complaint and are investigating it within 

5 calendar days. Within 14 days, the supplier must send you the 

result and their response in writing. You may also make a complaint 

by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users 

should call 1-877-486-2048. Complaints that can’t be resolved by a 

1-800-MEDICARE customer service representative will be referred to 

the appropriate office.

How can Medicare contract suppliers advertise? 

The same marketing rules and regulations for Original Medicare apply 

to the competitive bidding program. For example, suppliers can’t 

misuse symbols, emblems, or names in reference to Social Security or 

Medicare.

In addition, Medicare has specific standards for marketing to people 

with Medicare. Suppliers can’t make uninvited contact with you by 

phone about supplying a Medicare-covered item unless one of these 

situations applies:

•	 You've given written permission to the supplier to contact you about 

a Medicare-covered item that you need to rent or buy.

•	 The supplier is coordinating delivery of the item.

•	 The supplier is contacting you about providing a Medicare-covered 

item other than a covered item you already have, and the supplier 

has provided at least one covered item to you during the previous 

15-month period.
28

How can Medicare contract suppliers advertise? (continued)

For more information about your rights and protections, visit Medicare.gov. Or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

What other rules must Medicare contract suppliers follow? 

All Medicare contract suppliers have to meet special competitive bidding program 

requirements, federal quality standards, state licensure requirements, be in good 

standing with Medicare, and be accredited by an Independent Accreditation 

Organization. Medicare contract suppliers must: 

•	 Accept assignment for all contract items. This means they can’t charge you more 

than the Medicare-approved amount.

•	 Offer the same brands of equipment to Medicare and non-Medicare customers.

•	 Make competitively bid items and supplies available throughout the entire 

competitive bidding area.

•	 Only provide equipment that meets all applicable Food and Drug 

Administration regulations, effectiveness, and safety standards.

•	 Maintain equipment according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

•	 Provide all equipment using educated professionals who meet applicable 

licensure requirements.

•	 Make available a competent professional to provide or arrange for necessary 

repairs or replacement of existing equipment.

•	 Provide safe operating equipment

•	 Provide equipment that's consistent with the doctor’s prescription.

•	 Provide appropriate instructions and training on the safe use and maintenance 

of the equipment.

•	 Be aware of changes in your medical needs and work together with your doctor.

Section 6: Rights & protections
29

What other rules must Medicare contract suppliers follow? 

(continued)

Note: If you use respiratory equipment, your contract supplier must also: 

•	 Provide access to respiratory services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

•	 Make sure all equipment is provided by educated professionals who follow 

nationally-recognized guidelines for safe and effective patient care 

If you use respiratory equipment and need assistance, a knowledgeable 

professional will come to your home, if necessary, to provide additional equipment 

or to troubleshoot issues with existing equipment.

Can a Medicare contract supplier work with other suppliers 

to get what I need? 

Your Medicare contract supplier may work with other suppliers (subcontractors) 

to provide you and other customers with certain services, like delivering or 

installing equipment. Your Medicare contract supplier (not the subcontractor) 

should work with you directly when making arrangements for services.

Subcontractors shouldn’t market to you directly. If you have questions about the 

subcontractor, talk to your Medicare contract supplier. You can find their phone 

number by visiting Medicare.gov/supplier or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE 

(1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

Who do I contact if I don’t think a supplier is following these 

rules? 

If you don’t think a supplier is following these rules, you can file a complaint 

with the Competitive Acquisition Ombudsman. The Competitive Acquisition 

Ombudsman must respond to individual and supplier inquiries, issues, and 

complaints.

The Ombudsman reviews the concerns raised by people with Medicare through 

1-800-MEDICARE and through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program 

(SHIP).

Visit Medicare.gov/Ombudsman/resources.asp for information on inquiries and 

complaints, activities of the Ombudsman, and what people with Medicare need to 

know.

Section 6: Rights & protections
30 Section 6: Rights & protections

Notes
31
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 

7500 Security Boulevard 

Baltimore, Maryland 21244-1850 

Official Business 

Penalty for Private Use, $300 

CMS Product No. 11461

Revised June 2015