In brief: Forms, billing reports, lists

BALTIMORE- The Medicare Provider-Supplier Enrollment Application (CMS-855) has been updated, CMS notified providers in a message last week. Providers can use the old form until October, but they are encouraged to use the new form now. CMS has also released a new CMS-855O application form, which is used by providers enrolling to order and refer items and or services for Medicare beneficiaries. The CMS-855O form must be used immediately. Find the forms here.

CMS to release billing reports for diabetes supplies

BALTIMORE - CMS on Aug. 29 will release a national provider comparative billing report (CBR) focused on diabetes supplies. The report will be sent to physicians so they can compare their ordering patterns to other physicians in their state and across the country. To ensure privacy, the reports will contain only summary billing information. The reports are only available to those who receive them. Other releases are scheduled for Sept. 7 and Sept. 15.

Extrakare earns distinction

NORCROSS, Ga. - For the third year in a row, Extrakare was named to Inc. magazine's 500/5000 list. The respiratory provider ranked 79 among healthcare businesses in Georgia and 2,117 in the nation on the list of the fastest growing private companies. "We believe our best in class products, coupled with our highly motivated and trained team of dedicated employees, will allow us to maintain our positive reputation and high rate of growth for the foreseeable future," stated Kevin Godwin, co-founder and vice president, in a press release. The 500/5000 list ranks companies by overall revenue growth over a three-year period.

Inogen secures $6M credit line

GOLETA, Calif. - Inogen has secured a $6 million credit facility from Square 1 Bank, the two parties announced last week. "Due to Inogen's growth, we needed a financial partner that takes the time to understand our unique business needs and who can grow with the company to help us jointly increase the freedom and independence of oxygen therapy users," stated Raymond Huggenberger, Inogen CEO, in a release.

VGM tweaks seminar schedule

WATERLOO, Iowa - The VGM Group, due to requests from members, has updated the dates and locations for its two-day seminars on "The Ins and Outs of Competitive Bidding Round 2" and "How to Make Money in an Uncertain Reimbursement Environment." VGM has added seminars in Sacramento, Calif., and New York City. It has also changed the dates of other seminars to avoid conflict with state association events. FMI.