What must all DMEPOS suppliers obtain to receive and retain a supplier billing number?

To receive and retain a supplier billing number, DMEPOS (Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies) suppliers must obtain a surety bond. This requirement is in place to ensure financial accountability and to protect Medicare from potential fraud or abuse by suppliers. A surety bond acts as a form of insurance that guarantees the supplier will comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding billing and provision of products and services.

This bonding requirement helps to reassure Medicare and beneficiaries that suppliers will conduct their business ethically and responsibly, as a surety bond involves a third party that will pay for any claims made against the bond if the supplier fails to meet their obligations.

While accreditation, licensing, and Medicare enrollment are important aspects of compliance for DMEPOS suppliers, the specific requirement to obtain a surety bond directly pertains to the financial safeguards necessary for maintaining a supplier billing number.