Enteral Nutrient Prices During Non-Part A Nursing Stays
The OIG has issued a report entitled “Medicare Part B Services During Non-Part A Nursing Home Stays: Enteral Nutrient Pricing.” The OIG found that Medicare's fee schedule amounts for nutrients provided during non-Part A stays in 2006 exceeded prices available to nursing home suppliers and other purchasers by more than 50%. Consequently, the OIG recommends that CMS adjust Medicare fee schedule amounts for enteral nutrients to more accurately reflect supplier prices. CMS agreed with this recommendation. The agency also cited the resumption of the competitive bidding program and consideration of adjustment of the Medicare fee schedule for enteral nutrients, once sufficient data is available from the bidding process, as opportunities to address enteral pricing concerns.
