Don't Let Medicare Undermine Life-Saving Surgery
In a recent DC Journal commentary, colorectal surgeon Diego Schaps raises concerns about the inclusion of ostomy supplies in Medicare’s Competitive Bidding Program and the potential impact on patient access and outcomes.
Schaps emphasizes that ostomy supplies are highly individualized and are not interchangeable. Patients often work with clinicians and medical equipment providers to identify the pouching systems, skin barriers, adhesives, and other products that best meet their individual needs. Limiting access to those products, he notes, could lead to complications, including skin irritation, infection, leakage, and potentially emergency room visits or hospitalizations.
The commentary also raises concerns about the nationwide structure of the Competitive Bidding Program and its potential impact on community based suppliers, product choice, and the support available to Medicare beneficiaries.
Schaps calls attention to bipartisan efforts in Congress to postpone Competitive Bidding for urological and ostomy products for five years, providing additional time for policymakers, clinicians, and patient advocates to evaluate the potential effects on patient access.