A Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Supplier is a business that sells or rents DME or HME (home medical equipment). That type of equipment helps to manage chronic medical conditions and will typically last 3+ years.
Having the ability to bill Medicare for DME and HME is a significant component of a DME supplier’s business. Especially, since many people who need that medical equipment have Medicare insurance.
This article will provide essential information on how to become a DME supplier for Medicare. It will also include what you need to do to enroll as a durable medical equipment prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) supplier if you’re eligible.
3 Steps to Becoming DME Supplier for Medicare
To solely become a Medicare DME supplier, you will need to take the following three steps. It’s important to note that this information is for any supplier that doesn’t furnish DMEPOS items (if you do supply DMEPOS items, read the next section).
For more detailed information on the Medicare Enrollment Guide for providers and suppliers process, visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) website here.
1. Acquire a National Providers Identification (NPI) Number
If you don’t have one already, you won’t meet the DME license requirements. NPI’s are issued through the National Plan & Provider Enumeration System. You can apply on their website here.
2. Complete Your Medicare Enrollment Application
You will need to complete the enrollment application using the PECOS’s online system through their website here.
3. Work with Your Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC)
Contact the MAC for your region to find out if any other information is needed for your application. Your MAC will also keep you updated on your enrollment status.
To find out who your MAC representative is, download this PDF.
5 Steps to Becoming a Medicare DMEPOS Supplier
If you want to become a Medicare DME supplier that also supplies DMEPOS items, follow the next five steps. For more detailed information on Medicare Enrollment Guide for DMEPOS suppliers, visit the CMS website here.
1. Complete the DMEPOS Accreditation Process
A CMS-approved accreditation organization needs to verify you meet the required DMEPOS Quality Standards. Read about the supplier standards here. This organization will also conduct unplanned, occasional site visits.
To find an accredited organization download this PDF.
2. You will Need an NPI for Each Location
If you don’t have one already, you will need to apply for an NPI for each practice location. NPI’s are issued through the National Plan & Provider Enumeration System, and you can apply on their website here.
3. Complete Your Medicare Enrollment Application and Pay the Fee
You will need to complete the enrollment application using the PECOS’s online system. Access them through their website here, and you can pay the fee here.
4. Stay in Contact with the National Supplier Clearinghouse (NSC)
The NSC handles all DMEPOS supplier applications. You can check with them for your enrollment status.
5. Post a DMEPOS Surety Bond
You will need to post a $50,000 surety bond to the NSC. The surety bond could be a higher amount if you have more than one NPI you maintain.
Keep Your Information Up-To-Date
Always keep your DME enrollment information current to avoid losing your billing privileges. You need to report any company changes within 90 days.
Please note any of the below changes must be reported within 30 days.
- Change in business ownership
- Change in practice location
- Any adverse legal actions
Follow the CMS Process to Become an Accredited Supplier
Following the proper guidelines to become a DME or DMEPOS supplier for Medicare is essential for your success. Any company that provides DME without a license could face civil and criminal penalties. Contact CMS with any questions or concerns you may have or visit their website for information about the DME supplier process here.
How Medbill Can Help You
Medbill is a full-service DME billing company. The Medbill team are experts at DME Revenue Cycle Management and can assist you with document review, claims submission, and additional services as needed. Learn how the Medbill team makes all the difference here.
Connect with us today to learn how we can help you with your DME business.