Competitive Bidding
The WOCN Society does not support the inclusion of ostomy devices (pouching systems, equipment, and accessories) in the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services Durable Medical Equipment Prosthetics Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program. While Competitive Bidding aims to reduce healthcare costs, it must not come at the expense of clinical necessity. Individuals with an ostomy require custom fitting of the pouching system and accessories to meet their individual medical and lifestyle needs
Ostomy Education with The Frank & Lizzie Show: Competitive Bidding Program
voice your concerns about Medicare Competitive Bidding for Ostomy and Urological Supplies
The WOCN Society is working with several groups and organizations expressing our concerns about adding ostomy and urological supplies into the Medicare Competitive Bidding Program. One of these groups, The Item Coalition, has developed a petition opposing Competitive Bidding. The goal is to get as many individuals as possible to sign the petition to show a united voice of concern which will speak volumes in the conversations with regulators and Congress.
The Item Coalition is a coalition that includes national disability organizations, aging organizations, consumer groups and voluntary health associations as well as nonprofit provider associations. Please take time to sign on!
Use your voice! This is an easy process.
Click the button to access the petition, or through the site KeepThemOut.org.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES for sustainable access
This collaborative document outlines key principles supporting access to evidence-based ostomy care, specialized nursing services, innovation, and medically necessary ostomy products for individuals living with an ostomy.
Competitive Bidding POSITION STATEMENT
WOCN’s position statement on Competitive Bidding and Ostomy Supplies highlights the importance of allowing individuals with an ostomy unrestricted access to a wide range of high-quality ostomy devices and accessories to maintain peristomal skin health, prevent complications, and support optimal quality of life.
Understanding the Dire Implications of Competitive Bidding
Download our infographic on the dire implications of competitive bidding including:
- Background on the program
- Potential cost increases to medicare
- Potential impact on beneficiaries
- Patient stories
Coming soon!
WOCN IN ACTION
WOCN Advocacy Efforts
Learn how WOCN is leading advocacy efforts to oppose Medicare competitive bidding through coalition engagement, policy initiatives, and ongoing action to help protect patient access to essential care and supplies.
LEARN MOREBLOG POSTS
Explore the latest blog posts featuring advocacy updates, policy developments, educational insights, and ongoing discussions related to Medicare competitive bidding and patient access.
READ NOWWOCNext 2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us at WOCNext 2026 for (314) What’s New, What’s Now, What’s Needed! How Your Voice and Engagement Move Mountains for Your Patients and Your Practice and learned new ways to advocate, stay informed, and make an even greater impact in practice.
LEARN MOREADDITIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING RESOURCES
Do you need additional support or guidance? These educational and advocacy resources are not offered through the WOCN Society but may provide additional information related to competitive bidding and ostomy care access.
Thinking of Becoming a Member?
Learn the benefits of joining and about our membership types.
