Friday, July 4, 2008

The June 26 editorial "Help for Medicare," addressing the current Medicare legislation, appropriately encouraged the Senate to adopt the House measure; however, it missed the mark on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' competitive bidding program. There is no "mischief" in Congress's effort put the program temporarily on hold to resolve serious problems. It is important to note that Congress is paying for the delay via painful payment cuts to suppliers.

The problems include the approval of bidders who have no experience providing particular products or services, weak service requirements, the approval of bidders who do not meet state licensure requirements, and the disqualification of credible providers because of simple paperwork discrepancies. These must be remedied. Once the program has been implemented, federal officials must closely monitor its impact on beneficiaries.

Congress is not aiming to eliminate this well-intended program but instead is asking for time to correct problems so that patient access to high-quality care is not compromised.

PETER KELLY

Chairman

Council for Quality Respiratory Care

Washington