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Savings seen on diabetes supplies, other equipment

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Medicare is announcing a price cut.

Diabetes testing supplies now average about $16 a month for beneficiaries. That's going down to around $4.50.

Savings are also coming for many patients who rent home oxygen gear, hospital beds, wheelchairs and other equipment.

Medicare deputy administrator Jonathan Blum said Wednesday it's due to competitive bidding making inroads against wasteful spending.

Starting July 1, diabetes patients will get blood sugar testing supplies through a new national mail order program.

Competitive bidding for home medical equipment, now being piloted in nine cities, will expand to 100 metro areas, including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

Some seniors may have to switch suppliers, but taxpayers will save nearly $26 billion over 10 years.

Outside experts say Medicare should make even greater use of competitive bidding.

Copyright 2013 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.Savings seen on diabetes supplies, other equipment

Posted: Thursday, January 31 2013, 10:46 AM CST

IN OKLAHOMA NEWS

Teen in devastated Okla. town handing out hugs
May 25, 2013 02:26 GMT

MOORE, Okla. (AP) -- The people of the Oklahoma town where a deadly tornado struck could use just about everything -- cleaning supplies, food, water, shelter.

Thirteen-year-old Halle Carr thought residents of her hometown could also use a hug after the twister Monday that killed 24 people in Moore.

Halle has been standing on a corner with a white sign that reads: "Need a hug? I am here!" And people are taking her up on the offer.

On Friday, people in work trucks, cars and vans loaded with belongings rolled down their windows and reached out their arms to the girl. Some shouted words of encouragement.

Halle said it makes her feel good to spread a little cheer. She said she'll come out every day, as long as she thinks she's needed.

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