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(April 2012) Not too many years ago, an HME provider was not vulnerable to scrutiny from many people/agencies. A DMERC (now a DME MAC) may look at some claims on a post-payment basis. An NSC inspector would show up every couple of years to make sure that hours are posted and the provider has insurance. […] More...

(March 2012) Question: In addition to being besieged by Medicare prepayment reviews and post-payment audits, I am seeing an increase in activity by state Medicaid programs. What is going on? Answer: With 78 million “baby boomers” retiring at the rate of 10,000 per day, Medicare will continue to be a pivotal part of our nation’s […] More...

(April 2011) Question I keep hearing about call centers. What exactly is a call center? Answer A call center can be internal or external. Let’s say that ABC Medical, Inc. is a mail-order supplier of diabetic testing supplies. ABC may have a group of employees who take up 1000 square feet. This group of employees […] More...

(January 2010) Question Isn’t there any way for an HME company to pay commissions to a 1099 independent contractor marketing rep who generates both Medicare and commercial business for the company? Answer To quote from an old Patti Loveless country song: “What part of ‘no’ don’t you understand?” There are very few things in life […] More...

(August 2009) Introduction Without question, significant changes to the Home Medical Equipment (“HME”) industry are on the horizon. The implementation of competitive bidding, accreditation, reimbursement changes, and increased fraud enforcement has all had a significant impact on the operation and profitability of HME companies. This period of turmoil is both an opportunity for large suppliers […] More...