Medicare Competitive Bid Program Phase II
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my equipment or supplies will be included in the second round of the Durable Medical
Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program?
Phase II of the program will include the following items:

Oxygen, oxygen equipment, and supplies

Standard (Power and Manual) wheelchairs, scooters, and related accessories

Enteral nutrients, equipment, and supplies

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices and Respiratory Assist Devices (RADs) and related
supplies and accessories

Hospital beds and related accessories

Walkers and related accessories

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy pumps and related supplies and accessories

Support surfaces (Group 2 mattresses and overlays)
Who is affected by the Competitive Bid Program?
Medicare’s Competitive Bid Program affects only those enrolled in Original Medicare. If you’re in a Medicare
Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your plan will notify you if your supplier is changing. Contact your plan for
more information.
What is the National Mail-Order Program for diabetic testing supplies?
A new National Mail-Order Program for diabetic testing supplies is scheduled to start in July 1, 2013. This program
is designed to ensure that you continue to get quality supplies while you save money. If you use mail order you'll
need to use a Medicare National Mail-Order contract supplier for Medicare to pay for your diabetic testing
supplies that are delivered to your home. It is not mandated that diabetic testing supplies be supplied through mail
order, but you must use an approved provider.
“Mail order” means items ordered by phone, email, Internet, or mail, and delivered to your house by any means,
such as the U.S. Postal Service, Federal Express, United Parcel Service, provider delivery van, etc. It doesn’t include
items bought from local supplier storefronts (walk-in purchases).
Do I have to use mail order for Medicare to cover my diabetic supplies?
No. Medicare will pay for your supplies as long as you use a Medicare contract supplier. While, it is not mandatory
that you receive your diabetic supplies by mail order, it is recommended as there are additional savings by using
mail order.
Remember, if you choose to buy your diabetic testing supplies through mail order, you must use a Medicare
contract supplier in order for Medicare to pay for the items.
How do I find an approved Medicare supplier?
To find an approved supplier near you, Blue Cross and Blue Shield members should call 1-888-722-0322. All others
should call the number referenced on the back of their health plan ID card.
Medicare Competitive Bid Program Phase II
Frequently Asked Questions