WASHINGTON, DC – In response to the out-of-control Medicare audit system, AAHomecare has launched its new HME Audit Key. According to AAHomecare officials, the HME Audit Key will “quantify the impacts of audits and present compelling data that policymakers cannot ignore.”

AAHomecare is embarking on a funding campaign that will run over the next two years to raise the $250,000 necessary to sustain the HME Audit Key. Those who wish to contribute to the effort should CLICK HERE. The AAHomecare Executive Committee and Board of Directors, along with VGM Group Inc, and The MED Group, committed $43,500 in the first two weeks. For further information, contact Sue Mariena at [email protected]

Center For Medicare Advocacy Sues HHS Over ‘Rubber Stamp’ Denials
WASHINGTON, DC – The Center for Medicare Advocacy has filed a class action lawsuit against HHS over the first two levels of the Medicare appeals system. According to the report from Michelle M. Stein via Inside Health Policy, the center alleges “rubber stamp” coverage denials at both the Redetermination and Reconsideration levels of appeals.

“We need to get the out of control Medicare audit system under control,” said Tom Ryan, president and CEO of AAHomecare. “It’s encouraging to have groups like CMA taking a stand.”

AAHomecare Collaborates with CMS on Face to Face Issues
WASHINGTON, DC – On May 28, 2014, AAHomecare staff and Regulatory Council members met with CMS staff and the DME MAC medical directors to discuss several key issues regarding the current state of the face to face/written order prior to delivery (WOPD) requirements. AAHomecare reports that face-to-face exams and WOPDs can now be completed by different physicians, and ZPICs and RACs are now included in the enforcement delay.

Steve Ackerman Joins AAHomecare Executive Committee
AAHomecare added Steve Ackerman, president and CEO of Spectrum Medical Inc, to the AAHomecare Executive Committee where he will serve as treasurer. Alan Landauer, chairman of Landauer Metropolitan Inc, has stepped down from his post as treasurer and will remain a member of the AAHomecare Board of Directors.