What is the first step to becoming a Medicare supplier of DME?

To become a Medicare supplier of Durable Medical Equipment (DME), the first step involves applying for Facility Accreditation. This step is crucial because Medicare requires all suppliers of DME to be accredited by a recognized organization before they can bill Medicare for their products and services. Accreditation ensures that the supplier meets specific quality standards and complies with regulatory requirements, which is fundamental for maintaining the integrity and reliability of medical equipment distribution.

Facility Accreditation serves as a foundational requirement, setting the standard for operational practices and ensuring that the supplier is capable of delivering safe and effective products to patients. After achieving accreditation, suppliers can then pursue additional steps such as obtaining a Medicare supplier billing number or securing a surety bond, but these steps follow the initial requirement of accreditation.