Change of Ownership (CHOW) Consulting
Transfer DME ownership without risking Medicare billing, PTAN access, or accreditation status. We manage CHOW filings, CMS enrollment updates, and compliance requirements to ensure a smooth ownership transition.
Volume Managed
200+ CHOW transitions filed with CMS and state agencies
PTAN Retention Rate
97% of CHOW clients kept continuous Medicare billing access
Authority
30+ years guiding DME businesses through ownership and control changes
What Is a CHOW and Why It Matters for DMEPOS Suppliers
A Change of Ownership (CHOW) occurs when control or structure of a DMEPOS business changes—whether through sale, partner buyout, merger, or corporate restructuring. Unlike general business transfers, CHOWs are subject to strict CMS, PECOS, NSC, and accreditation body requirements.
If mishandled, a CHOW can trigger PTAN deactivation, accreditation suspension, or claim denials. We guide you through every requirement—before, during, and after your ownership transfer—so you stay compliant and avoid disruption.
Transaction Mapping
We help you define the correct CHOW structure, file timelines, and role transitions to meet CMS definitions.
CMS-855S Filing Support
Our team completes and files the CMS-855S Change of Ownership packet and coordinates document collection.
PECOS & NPI Updates
We assist with PECOS ownership reassignments and NPI registry changes to reflect the new control structure.
Where CHOW Transitions Fail—and How We Keep You on Track
Most DME businesses don’t realize how much Medicare oversight is triggered by a change in ownership. Without expert planning, providers risk losing their ability to bill, distribute, or maintain accreditation. Here’s what often goes wrong:
CHOW Filing Mistakes
-
Incorrect Transaction Type
Improperly classifying the sale as a stock vs. asset transfer can lead to CMS rejections. -
Late CMS Notification
CMS requires CHOW filings within 30 days of the effective date—miss the window, and your PTAN may be deactivated. -
Inconsistent Ownership Documentation
Mismatches between CMS-855S, PECOS, and NPPES cause application returns and status delays. -
Accreditation Gaps
If the new owner doesn’t meet accreditor standards or update control documents, accreditation may be suspended.
How We Manage CHOW Compliance
Pre-CHOW Assessment
We review entity structure, PTAN history, and transaction terms to confirm the CHOW is correctly classified under CMS rules.
Document Preparation & Submission
We collect all necessary licenses, bonds, accreditation certificates, and supporting ownership records for CMS-855S submission.
PECOS & NPI Corrections
Our team works with you to update PECOS and NPI registry details, avoiding mismatches and enrollment flags.
Post-CHOW Monitoring
We track CMS acknowledgment letters, PTAN status, and enrollment record updates to ensure a smooth transition.
How Our CHOW Consulting Works
CHOW Evaluation & Planning
We evaluate the type of ownership change and outline all steps, from buyer/seller documentation to CMS filing strategy.
CMS-855S Completion & Filing
We prepare and submit the CHOW section of the CMS-855S form, along with any required state notifications.
PECOS & NPI Record Alignment
We align all records across CMS, PECOS, and the NPI registry to reflect updated control, contact, and managing party information.
Transition Monitoring
Our compliance team tracks submission status, provides updates, and prepares you for post-transaction audit or review.
CHOW Consulting Benefits
Avoid billing disruptions, stay licensed, and transition control without delays.
Maintain Active PTAN Access
With accurate filings and real-time tracking, you won’t lose days—or weeks—of Medicare billing time.
Stay Aligned Across CMS Systems
We ensure ownership details are synchronized across CMS-855S, PECOS, and NPPES.
Reduce Accreditation Risk
We help the new owner maintain required control documents and meet accreditor expectations to stay compliant.