Medicare is proposing to restart a flawed program called Competitive Bidding that determines reimbursement rates for home medical equipment (HME) and supplies by awarding contracts to the suppliers who bid the lowest—regardless of the actual costs of providing safe, quality care.
This isn’t the first time Competitive Bidding has been tried. In past rounds, it excluded 75% of suppliers from being able to serve patients and led to the closure of 37% of HME locations nationwide. Patients were left with fewer choices, longer wait times, or no access at all. The program was paused due to these serious issues—but now Medicare wants to restart it with changes that could make the situation even worse.
If you or a loved one relies on HME, your voice matters. Medicare is accepting public comments on the proposed rule until August 29, 2025.
How the Proposed Program Could Harm Patients
1. Fewer Contracted Suppliers = Less Choice and Access
Medicare’s plan would drastically reduce the number of contracted suppliers, prioritizing cost savings over meeting patient needs. This approach will limit your options and make it harder to find the equipment and support you require.
2. Unrealistic Prices Mean Lower Quality Care
By forcing prices below the real cost of providing quality products and services, Competitive Bidding risks lowering product quality, reducing available options, and limiting essential support.
3. No Safeguards Against Inexperienced Suppliers
The program removes guardrails that once ensured bidders had product experience or a local presence. This could put your care in the hands of suppliers unfamiliar with your needs.
4. High-Risk Products in an Untested Model
Medicare’s plan expands Competitive Bidding to include high-risk medical products under an unproven framework—potentially endangering patient health.
5. Loss of Local Suppliers, Especially in Emergencies
Removing trusted, community-based suppliers undermines continuity of care. In natural disasters or emergencies, losing local access can be life-threatening.
6. Not a Real Fraud Prevention Tool
The program’s focus is on cutting costs, not preventing fraud. This cost-first approach can push out trusted providers who prioritize quality care.
7. Impact Extends Beyond Medicare
Because many insurers follow Medicare’s lead, Competitive Bidding would shrink supplier options for everyone, not just Medicare beneficiaries.
How You Can Speak Out
The proposed changes aren’t final—public input can make a difference. Here’s how to submit your comment before the August 29, 2025 deadline:
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Go to Medicare’s public comment page (scan the QR code provided in advocacy materials).
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Click “Submit a Public Comment.”
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Write your comment—or upload a file—explaining how these changes could affect you or your loved ones.
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Avoid including any personal identifying information.
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Submit your comment.
Bottom line: Competitive Bidding may save Medicare money, but it risks sacrificing patient safety, choice, and access to care. If you believe quality and availability of home medical equipment should come first, now is the time to make your voice heard.
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