A note about DDS's (doctors of dental surgery)...

I spoke to CMS about DDS's today. DDS's are a recognized provider but they have to enroll in the program much the same as MD's do. DDS's are not eligible for the opt out option under Medicare (but DDS/MDs are) so they can either enroll or not enroll (they can't contract privately with a beneficiary)...and if they enroll they then have the option to participate or not participate. There is no law, rule , or reg that says non-erolled DDS's have to inform beneficiaries that they are not enrolled in Medicare (but they should if they want to do the right thing). If your DDS is not enrolled in Medicare, CMS says you can still be reimbursed for the biopsy (excision of the oral cavity, etc) because it is a covered service BUT the beneficiary will have to submit the bill for reimbursement themselves. CMS cannot reimburse the DDS directly if he is not enrolled.