Max Baucus: “Today I introduce, with my friend Senator Grassley and twenty-four other Democratic and Republican Senators, the…”

“Today I introduce, with my friend Senator Grassley and twenty-four other Democratic and Republican Senators, the Medicare DMEPOS Competitive Acquisition Reform Act of 2008. In doing so, I would also like to recognize the efforts of Congressman Pete Stark, Congressman Dave Camp, and so many others in the House of Representatives who worked very hard on this bipartisan legislation. This legislation will delay the durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies competitive acquisition program. Many Members of Congress and I have received reports about potential inaccuracies in the implementation of the CAP program. These reports range from suppliers who believe they were wrongly disqualified to questions about the clarity and consistency of information that suppliers received during the bidding process. Some providers were awarded contracts to serve areas in which they did not previously have a presence. Other suppliers were awarded contracts for service lines with which they have little or no experience. While I support the concept of competitive bidding as a way to decrease costs, it is the obligation of Congress to make sure that these savings are not at the expense of beneficiary access to the care that they need in their own communities. I believe that Congress should take a closer look to make sure this program lives up to its potential.”