HME providers are not alone when it comes to the impact of bidding on patient access to quality equipment and services. Discharge planners, case managers, and social workers are dealing with the loss of local providers and having to make calls to multiple providers to find bid winners willing to serve patients.
In various conversations with OAMES members, we're hearing that many referral sources around Ohio are frustrated and often calling on providers that they've worked with for years , but who did not receive Medicare contracts, to ask for their help in getting advice about contract suppliers or information about the program given CMS' lack of education and preparation for these decision-makers. This underscores how important these trusted, professional relationships were that have been severed by a program with unbinding bids based solely on price with little connection to performance and choice.
Most discharge planners are also case managers and belong to the Case Management Society of America (CMSA). CMSA has at least one chapter in each state. Providers are encouraged to find contact information for the CMSA chapter in your area and reach out to them. Ask if they will report the problems they are having to: