When it comes to your health, having reliable access to the supplies and equipment you need is essential. But right now, changes being proposed by Medicare could make that harder through something called the Competitive Bidding Program (CBP).

So, what is it—and why does it matter to you? Let’s break it down.

What is Competitive Bidding?
Normally, Medicare pays suppliers (the companies that provide you with medical equipment and supplies) a set amount for certain items. With competitive bidding, suppliers are asked to “bid” against each other to win contracts. The lowest bids often set the prices.

At first, this might sound like a good idea—lower prices for Medicare. But here’s the catch:

Fewer suppliers win contracts.

Patients have fewer choices of who to work with.

Lower payments can mean suppliers can’t afford to keep offering the same level of service.

Why Does It Matter to You?
If these new rules go into effect, here’s what it could mean for patients, caregivers, and facilities:

Less Choice – Instead of being able to pick the supplier you trust, you may only be able to use the one Medicare contracted.

Access Delays – Fewer suppliers could mean longer wait times to get your supplies or equipment.

Reduced Services – With lower payments, suppliers may not be able to provide the same support.

New Product Categories – Items like insulin pumps and glucose monitors could be affected, making it harder for people managing diabetes to get what they need.

Why Speaking Up Matters
Your voice is powerful. Medicare is asking for public feedback before finalizing these changes, and comments are open until August 27th, 2025.

By sharing your story or concern, you help show how these changes could affect real people—not just numbers on a spreadsheet.

How You Can Take Action
Submitting a comment is quick and easy:

1. Go to the Medicare comment page. Here

2. Click “Submit a Public Comment.”

3. Write your comment (or upload a file).

4. Choose “An Individual” or “Anonymous” under “Tell Us About Yourself.”

5. Check the confirmation box.

6. Click Submit Comment.

Bottom Line:
Competitive bidding may save money on paper, but it comes at a cost to patients and caregivers. It can limit choices, create barriers to access, and reduce the level of care you depend on.

This is your chance to speak up: Your Care, Your Choice.