WASHINGTON – Industry leaders are raising serious concerns about CMS’s newly proposed rule for the next round of competitive bidding, while simultaneously using the opportunity to advocate for H.R. 2005—a bill that could help stabilize the market.
“We’re using this moment to engage our health care champions and highlight some major concerns, especially CMS’s overreach in trying to include urological supplies,” said Tom Ryan, president and CEO of AAHomecare. “That move goes beyond their statutory authority. But the problems don’t stop there—there are numerous issues baked into this rule.”
On June 30, CMS released its proposed rule outlining the next steps for competitive bidding. Key provisions include a new rate-setting methodology, an annual reaccreditation requirement, and expansion into new product categories such as continuous glucose monitors and disposable medical supplies.
Escalating the Message
AAHomecare has prepared a set of eight key talking points and questions for lawmakers, CMS, and other stakeholders. Among them: Will CMS continue to reserve at least 30% of contract awards for small suppliers—a past standard aimed at maintaining competition?
Industry advocates are particularly alarmed by a 37% drop in supplier locations since the program’s expansion in 2013. That decline raises red flags about market shrinkage and reduced access to care for beneficiaries. Supporters of H.R. 2005 believe reinstating the 75/25 blended Medicare reimbursement rates in non-rural, non-bid areas could help stabilize the industry and preserve access.
“This proposed rule underscores just how vital non-bid, non-rural areas are,” said Ryan. “If we can pass H.R. 2005, it lays the groundwork for a more productive dialogue with CMS as this rule moves toward finalization.”
Rallying Congressional Support
Recently, stakeholders met with members of the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees, as well as Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Pa., a strong industry advocate.
“We spent two full days with Congressman Meuser, and he’s made competitive bidding reform a top priority,” said Jay Witter, AAHomecare’s senior vice president of government relations. “He has strong connections, even within the White House, and has shown real commitment to our cause. He’s going to be a powerful champion, along with other supportive lawmakers.”
With Congress in recess and members returning to their home districts for the summer, Witter says it’s time to activate grassroots advocacy.
“We’re leaning on our state leaders—they’re incredibly connected and effective,” he said. “But we’re not letting up in D.C. either. Hill staff are still working, and we’ll continue meeting with offices to build momentum.”
Preparing Formal Feedback
In parallel, AAHomecare is working with the Council for Quality Respiratory Care and VGM to collect feedback and craft formal comments on the proposed rule. They’ve launched a survey to evaluate how the reaccreditation proposal could affect suppliers.
“I’m hearing from VGM members across the country who are deeply concerned,” said Ike Isaacson, senior vice president of government and regulatory relations at VGM & Associates. “My message to them is simple: channel that concern into action. We need to know how these changes would impact your business. This is a pivotal time for our industry.”
