CMS Removes Non-Invasive Ventilators From Round 2021 Of The Competitive Bidding Program

Published in Member Communities on April 10, 2020

CMS announced today that due to the novel COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is removing the non-invasive ventilators (NIV) product category from Round 2021 of the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program. This was the first time that NIVs were included in the Competitive Bidding Program.

Clint Geffert, President of VGM & Associates, commented on the announcement saying, "This is a great start and gets us headed in the right direction. Removing NIVs from the Competitive Bidding Program helps maintain access to critical, complex equipment. DME suppliers can now have peace of mind as they navigate this PHE and beyond. Thank you to everyone and their efforts over the past year to help make this happen. This was a team effort as an industry united together to listen to all of our members' needs."

Click here to read the announcement.

From Our Experts

Alternative Sleep Therapies: Guidance for DME Providers thumbnail Alternative Sleep Therapies: Guidance for DME Providers Discover how oral appliance therapy, eXciteOSA, and other alternative sleep therapies are reshaping care in 2026. Alternative Sleep Therapies: Guidance for DME Providers thumbnail Alternative Sleep Therapies: Guidance for DME Providers Discover how oral appliance therapy, eXciteOSA, and other alternative sleep therapies are reshaping care in 2026. Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities Extended for CRT Providers thumbnail Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities Extended for CRT Providers Learn how the new Medicare telehealth extension impacts CRT providers. U.S. Rehab's Dan Fedor explains why remote care access remains vital through 2027. Why CRT Providers Are Exploring Home Accessibility in 2026 thumbnail Why CRT Providers Are Exploring Home Accessibility in 2026 Home accessibility is emerging as a major growth path for CRT providers. Explore the trend and learn why strategic, low-risk steps matter. Log in for the full article. Doing More With Less: Home Access in 2026 thumbnail Doing More With Less: Home Access in 2026 Discover how home access remodelers can do more with less using outsourced labor, virtual assessments, standardized materials, and templated scopes. Building a Skilled Home Access Workforce Through Training thumbnail Building a Skilled Home Access Workforce Through Training Discover why training, certifications, and cross-training are essential for home access professionals. VGM Live at Home Spotlight: Chris Moore & the Power of “Age Out Loud” thumbnail VGM Live at Home Spotlight: Chris Moore & the Power of “Age Out Loud” VGM Live at Home spotlights Chris Moore, whose book Age Out Loud and passion for CAPS training inspire professionals to help more people age safely at home. A Note from the President: VGM is Evolving For You thumbnail A Note from the President: VGM is Evolving For You VGM is evolving with purpose by investing in advocacy, technology, and services to support HME providers through industry change and ensure long-term viability.