CMS Implements New Supplier Location Inspection Procedure

WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 28, 2021)—The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has implemented a new procedure to ensure durable medical equipment (DME) supplier locations are open and available for an in-person inspection during this public health emergency (PHE). Overland Solutions, a CMS subcontractor for the National Supplier Clearinghouse is currently completing these screenings by calling supplier locations. The subcontractor has been instructed to indicate they are with Overland Solutions when contacting suppliers. Suppliers that received these screening calls have been asked questions about their current company address and if the supplier is operating from the location or from home.
 
Early in the PHE, CMS waived the requirement to be open at a physical location a minimum of 30 hours per week (supplier standard #7). However, in July 2020, CMS lifted this waiver and announced that they will be moving forward with physical inspections and assured that inspectors will follow state and local guidelines.
 
Find AAHomecare’s COVID-19 Medicare Reference Sheet for the list of active waivers during this PHE here.