PAMES Raises Critical Concerns Over Sole-Source Supply Shift
Published in
Government Relations
on March 25, 2026
PAMES and DME suppliers across Washington are taking an important stand on behalf of both providers and patients. The Tacoma Daily Index recently reported on the state’s plan to move to a sole-source contract for incontinence and urological supplies. Under this decision, the Health Care Authority intends to transition all Medicaid recipients to receiving these products from a single vendor.
Several PAMES members spoke up and were featured in the article, bringing needed attention to the real-world consequences this shift may create.
DME suppliers throughout the state are deeply concerned that a sole-source arrangement could limit patient access, reduce product variety and quality, and disrupt continuity of care—especially for individuals with complex medical needs. Beyond patient impact, this unilateral change poses a serious threat to the long-term viability of community-based DME providers who have supported Washington families for decades.
By speaking up, PAMES is ensuring that patient experience, provider expertise, and stakeholder insights remain central to the conversation as the state evaluates decisions that will significantly affect care delivery.
Read more here.