The VGM Group will present new seminar series designed to help HMEs prepare for competitive bidding.
Competitive bidding for high-utilization HME products will be implemented in 70 additional large metropolitan statistical areas in 2009. The actual bid process will begin in the summer of 2008.
The new series, Competitive Bidding: Preparing for Round Two, will offer full-day seminars beginning in January of next year. Under a joint promotional effort with home-care state and regional medical equipment associations, 17 centrally located venues have been selected to allow virtually all HME providers in the 70 metro areas to attend.
“Attendees will learn from the experience and concerns of the 2007 Round One bidders, and obtain guidance on the proper preparation to determine a bid, tips to navigate the electronic bid submission system, and key accreditation action steps. We will also discuss network and subcontracting opportunities, as well as the latest legislative priorities affecting the industry,” says Mark Higley, VGM vice president-development.
Ron Bendell, president of VGM & Associates, adds, “While VGM remains active in the fight to halt competitive bidding via the judicial system and support of mitigating legislation, we recognize the industry must be prepared.”
Tentative 2008 seminar dates and locations include:
Jan. 15, Chicago
Jan. 17, Tampa, Fla.
Jan. 29, Houston
Jan 31, Phoenix
Feb. 12, Nashville, Tenn.
Feb. 14, St. Louis
Feb. 26, Atlanta
Feb. 28, Charlotte, N.C.
March 4, San Jose, Calif.
March 6, Tacoma, Wash.
March 18, Newark, N.J.
March 20, Providence, R.I.
April 1, Columbus, Ohio
April 3, Detroit
April 15, Denver
April 17, Baltimore
May 7, Long Beach, Calif.
Tuition for VGM and state/regional medical equipment association members is $199 (additional company attendees $149), which includes all materials, lunch and refreshments. Non-member tuition is $249 (additional company attendees $199). Online registration and additional information will be available online.
Visit www.vgmeducation.com.
