$500 to apply/reapply to be a DME provider?

[harry888]

Just got a notice from the local society that as of March 25th, all DME applications have a $500 (maybe more depending on "risk") fee.

This includes the re-applications we have to do every three years.

Anyone else heard this?

Harry

[chip anderson]

As I read this, it's in addittion to sureity bond. Also I think it said that this was just for post cataract glasses. If so, see if you do enough of same to be worth it, if not let these "escape."

Chip

[hcjilson]

I have not heard about this, but it wouldn't surprise me. DME couldn't very well go to the client and say we are no longer paying (allowances) for the first post op pair of spectacles per each operation because that would be taking away an "entitlement". Some genius said OK, we can't do that but we CAN price the suppliers out of the market. If no one will file a claim, there are no claims if you get the drift. They got rid of a bunch of suppliers when they required the surety bond. (I'm one who voluntarily withdrew from the program) however I do fill out the 1490 form for the customer, complete with proper coding, which probably drives DME nuts.

I surmise that DME is trying to further reduce suppliers. The supplier now has got to figure out how many of these claims will it take to turn a profit after paying the $500.00. fee for the privlidge of participating as a supplier. Perhaps larger practices will absorb the cost but my feeling is that the smaller ones will opt out.

[optical24/7]

"Escape"? No way! At least in this state, all Medicare will pay for 1st post-op glasses averages $42 towards frame, $74 towards lenses. Tell the patient you are not a Medicare glasses provider, but will offer the same amount in a discount. You still retain the client and any family for future visits and referals.



Plus, if they want to file the paperwork themselves, they can get their Medicare re-imbursement amount.

[hcjilson]

Actually the benefit is allowed once for each operated eye, for a total of 2 pair. Operations are rarely done on both eyes together, and the benefit is tied to each surgery individually. It is not a state benefit, but a federal medicare benefit. Even when I was a supplier, I was a non participating provider, I never accepted assignment, the customer was always re-imbursed by medicare.

[optical24/7]

Right Harry. I didn't mention it's usually good *twice*. (time between surgeries, not same date) Still, I think it's better to discount and retain than to let *walk*. (and they can file twice too.)