The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has finalized the CY 2026 Home Health and Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program (CBP) rule. The final rule, published in the Federal Register on Friday, November 28, 2025, mandates the inclusion of ostomy, tracheostomy, and urological supplies in the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program under Section 1847(a)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act.
As many of you know, this now finalized rule raised significant concerns across the wound, ostomy, and continence community when first proposed back in July 2025. Throughout the summer and fall, patient advocates, clinical organizations, and industry strongly opposed this change due to its potential impact on patient access, continuity of care, and safety. Despite extensive public comments and congressional engagement, CMS finalized the rule as proposed.
Key Timeline
- December 2025: CMS begins supplier awareness activities
- Spring/Summer 2026: Registration and bidding dates announced; product categories identified
- Late Summer/Fall 2026: Supplier registration and bidding open
- Late Summer/Fall 2027: Contracts awarded; beneficiary education begins
- No later than January 1, 2028: Contracts take effect with a six-month beneficiary transition period
Why This Matters
WOC nurses play a critical role in ensuring patients receive the right supplies, education, and ongoing support to prevent complications and hospitalizations. Competitive bidding for ostomy and urological supplies raises concerns about:
- Reduced patient choice and supplier access
- Disruptions in continuity of care
- Potential negative impacts on skin integrity, infection prevention, and overall quality of life
WOCN® Advocacy Moving Forward
WOCN remains deeply concerned about the long-term implications of this rule and continues to support the position that ostomy and urological supplies are prosthetic devices, not durable medical equipment, and should not be included in the DMEPOS competitive bidding process.
WOCN will continue to work closely with advocacy partners, clinical stakeholders, and policymakers to oppose this policy and protect patient access to medically necessary supplies. Congressional offices previously engaged on this issue are being recontacted to explore potential next steps.
Additional updates and educational resources will be shared with members as more information becomes available.
WOCN remains steadfast in advocating for safe, patient-centered access to ostomy and urological supplies.