Audit of Medicaid Payments for Oxygen Related Durable Medical Equipment and Supplies, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Columbus, Ohio

This final letter report presents the results of our Audit of Medicaid Payments for Oxygen Related Durable Medical Equipment and Supplies.  We found that Medicaid providers in Ohio generally received reimbursements for oxygen related items of durable medical equipment (DME) and supplies at rates that were lower than the Medicare allowable amount.  Payments were generally acceptable.  During our audit period of January 1, 1998 through December 31, 1999, payments charged to the Medicaid program, which exceeded Medicare payment levels, amounted to only $1,711.  We are not recommending recovery but are recommending that the State assure that the maximum allowable price for DME and supplies be limited to an amount equal to or less than the Medicare allowable amount for the same items.