WASHINGTON, D.C. – National stakeholder organizations continue to ramp up advocacy efforts opposing the inclusion of ostomy and urological supplies in the Competitive Bidding Program, with multiple initiatives underway.

The ITEM Coalition, a consortium of over 100 leading national consumer and clinician groups, launched KeepThemOUT.org as a resource for Coalition members to learn about the bid program, receive updates, and take action. Notably, they invite all stakeholders to sign a petition in solidarity with the disability community which calls upon CMS and Congress to halt/delay the implementation of the bid program. You can access the petition here and share it with end users, caregivers, family members, colleagues, and other allied groups.

Additionally, a group of national patient advocacy organizations launched HighCostofLowBids.org, a campaign that urges Congress and the Administration to delay implementation of the bid program and requires that end users would maintain timely access to care. The website’s central message is that “patients need the right fit – not the lowest bid”, contains video testimonials of end users and clinicians, and offers a portal to send customizable e-mails to Congress.

The United Spinal Association is also hosting its virtual Roll on Capitol Hill event on June 24th, which will mobilize advocates on Competitive Bidding and other key priorities. AAHomecare members are encouraged to sign the petition, share it with their communities, and amplify these resources through communication channels as stakeholder advocacy efforts continue.