#United States #Mount Laurel Township #Ostomy Supplies #WOCN Society #H.R. 10787

WOCN Society's Advocacy for Patient Rights

The Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society™ (WOCN®) has recently voiced its support for a critical bipartisan bill known as the Access to Medical Supplies Act, designated H.R. 10787. This legislation aims to exclude ostomy and urological supplies from Medicare's Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program for a period of five years, a significant move for the many individuals reliant on these essential medical necessities.

Importance of the Legislation

Introduced by Representatives Greg Murphy (R-NC) and Brad Schneider (D-IL), the proposed legislation is set to exclude these supplies from competitive bidding from January 1, 2028, to December 31, 2032. It also calls for a technical expert panel and a demonstration project aimed at evaluating the effects of including these supplies in the competitive bidding process, ensuring that patient access to clinically appropriate products remains uncompromised.

For those managing ostomy care or urinary dysfunction, product choices are critical. These supplies, including ostomy pouching systems, skin barriers, and urinary catheters, are not merely commodities; they directly influence the health and well-being of individuals. Limiting access to the appropriate products could potentially result in severe complications, such as skin breakdown, infections, or even unnecessary hospital admissions, drastically affecting patients' independence and overall quality of life.

Christine Berke, the President of the WOCN Society, highlights the crucial connection between access to the right medical supplies and patient health. She stated, "We have spent years educating policymakers about the clinical needs of the patients who rely on these products. This legislation represents an important step toward protecting their access, and we urge our members to help Congress understand why these protections matter."

WOCN Society's Ongoing Commitment

The WOCN Society has consistently held a position opposing the inclusion of ostomy and urological supplies in the competitive bidding process. Their advocacy emphasizes that while efforts to reduce Medicare spending are important, they must not compromise patient safety, clinical requirements, and continuity of care. Although the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a rule in November 2025 that included these products in competitive bidding, the WOCN has proactively worked with Congress and CMS to mitigate any potential adverse effects on patient access to necessary supplies.

Through their efforts, the Society has submitted formal comments to CMS, collaborated with advocacy coalitions, and reached out to both congressional offices and CMS officials. They have also mobilized nurses to provide firsthand accounts of the clinical challenges faced by patients, aiding in the drive for informed policymaking.

The Role of SUNA

Moreover, the Society for Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA) stands alongside WOCN in this advocacy effort. Nicole Zhang, SUNA's President, remarked on the essential nature of suitable supplies for patients, stating, "For our patients, the right supply is not a preference. It is what keeps them independent, out of the emergency department, and living their lives. SUNA stands with WOCN in urging Congress to cosponsor H.R. 10787, so that access to clinically appropriate urological and ostomy supplies is protected while evidence is gathered."

Call to Action

Nurses who care for patients that depend on these products are urged to convey their experiences and insights to policymakers, thereby aiding in the understanding of how coverage and procurement decisions can significantly impact patient care. The WOCN Society encourages its members to participate in advocacy efforts and provides educational resources to help them effectively communicate the importance of maintaining access to these essential medical supplies. More information can be found at wocn.org/competitive-bidding.

About the WOCN Society

Founded in 1968, the WOCN Society is the leading professional community for nurses specializing in wound, ostomy, and continence care. With over 6,500 members, the Society is dedicated to advancing nursing practice and enhancing patient care through education and advocacy. Learn more at wocn.org.

About SUNA

The Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA), established in 1970, is focused on improving the quality of life for patients with urological needs. Supporting education and research in this field, SUNA champions high-quality care for all patients. More information is available at suna.org.