Congress to Probe Competitive-Bidding Program

Some members of Congress have expressed concern about Medicare's competitive-bidding program for providers of devices like wheelchairs and oxygen tanks. Hearings are being scheduled, reports the Wall Street Journal. Lawmakers of both parties have responded to device companies' concerns that the bidding process is flawed and that the program could put some smaller providers out of business. At least one consumer group believes that the program may decrease quality and access of care for patients.