HME providers of all sizes that have a competitive bid contract are receiving termination letters citing failure to properly respond to “secret shopper” calls. Regional liaisons of the Competitive Bidding Implementation Contractor program cited numerous complaints about out-of-state suppliers not honoring their contracts and many in-state providers not offering all product codes within a category. There are, however, procedures to mitigate and perhaps remedy the issues after receiving a termination letter. Providers have an opportunity to submit a “Corrective Action Plan,” and/or appeal the termination. By taking the necessary steps, some providers have enacted plans and their contracts have not been terminated.
Please view Mark Higley’s blog for a detailed look into these calls.