PCG Medical’s Advocacy Week: Fighting Against the Medicare Competitive Bid

The Competitive Bidding Program (CBP) was created by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to control costs for certain Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) — such as oxygen, wheelchairs, and diabetes supplies.

Under this program, Medicare selects suppliers based on who offers the lowest bid for these products. While this approach is meant to save money, it can also limit patient choice and reduce access to quality care.

Why the Proposed Expansion Is Concerning

CMS is considering expanding this program to include urological and ostomy supplies — items that have never been part of competitive bidding before. If approved, this could create major challenges for the patients who depend on these supplies every day.

How This Impacts Urological Patients

1. Limited Product Choice

Catheters and related supplies are not one-size-fits-all. Patients could lose access to the specific products that fit their needs best, increasing discomfort and infection risk.

2. Loss of Trusted Suppliers

Only a few companies would be awarded contracts. Many specialized suppliers, like PCG Medical, may no longer be able to serve their long-term patients.

3. Delays and Confusion in Care

Patients could face delays or disruptions when switching to unfamiliar suppliers, putting their health and independence at risk.

4. Strain on Caregivers and Providers

Providers may have to navigate new administrative hurdles and lose the direct communication they have with local, patient-focused suppliers.

5. Reduced Quality of Care

When cost drives decisions, quality and service often suffer. Patients deserve compassionate care, not cost-cutting compromises.

Why PCG Medical Is Taking Action

At PCG, we believe patients deserve a voice in policies that affect their health and dignity. That’s why we’re joining advocacy partners and disability organizations to urge Congress and CMS to stop the proposed expansion.

The Bottom Line

Urological supplies are medical necessities, not interchangeable commodities. Expanding the Competitive Bidding Program threatens patient safety, independence, and quality of life.

Your voice matters. Together, we can protect access, choice, and compassionate care.

Follow PCG Medical for advocacy updates:

facebook.com/share/1CK7o3UEDJ

Join PCG Medical‘s advocacy week event to fight against the competitive bid and make our voices heard.

Even if it doesn’t affect you directly, it does affect a friend or loved one!