Pharmacists oppose Medicare rule because of diabetes supplies impact.

Pharmacists oppose Medicare rule because of diabetes supplies impact. I have read anywhere that competitive bidding is a good idea. I guess the point is to save money, but the effect on service will be dramatic.

"Millions of Medicare beneficiaries would face decreased access to durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and diabetes test strips, if a proposed rule by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) takes effect, according to the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)."

"The so-called "Competitive Acquisition Program" developed by CMS creates huge administrative burdens for pharmacists that could affect the availability of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS), as well as Medicare Part B medications, immunizations, therapeutic shoes, diabetes supplies, and nebulizers. The proposed rule would require pharmacists to obtain additional accreditation and submit to a competitive bidding process in order to continue to sell these essential supplies to Medicare beneficiaries beginning in 2007."