Major Update On Product Categories For The Next Round Of Competitive Bidding

Published in Government Relations on December 04, 2025

Since the publication of the Final Rules on the Competitive Bidding Program (CBP) was announced, VGM has been in conversation with CMS officials as well as other industry groups regarding additional products being included into the CBP. The unofficial feedback we received indicated that there would be no additional products beyond those reported in the Final Rule.

While there is still a great deal of work to be done in the existing product lines, we are happy to announce that there will be no additional products added to this round of Competitive Bidding. This has been confirmed by CMS in their most recent update here.

To clarify, CMS has updated the fact sheet released November 28 with the Final Rule confirming that "All product categories for the next round will be included in the Nationwide Remote Item Delivery Program.” The fact sheet also states that the urological supplies category will not include hydrophilic catheters. The categories are: 

• Class II Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) & Insulin Pumps 
• Urological Supplies 
• Ostomy Supplies 
• Hydrophilic Urinary Catheters 
• Off-the-shelf Back Braces 
• Off-the-shelf Knee Braces 
• Off-the-shelf Upper Extremity Braces

This product category limitation marks a significant development for the CBP as legacy items, aside from off-the-shelf knee and back braces, such as oxygen and respiratory equipment, standard wheelchairs, CPAP devices, hospital beds, and other products included in previous bidding rounds WILL NOT be part of the next round. 

“The upcoming round of Competitive Bidding presents significant challenges for patients and providers alike. At VGM, we remain steadfast in defending patients’ rights to choose their healthcare provider and to maintain access to trusted, local services. This recent clarification from CMS enables us to sharpen our message to legislators and industry stakeholders, underscoring the harmful consequences this bidding rule imposes on both patient care and the viability of community-based businesses.” 

– Ike Isaacson, SVP Government & Regulatory Relations for VGM Group, Inc.