CMS seeks input on strengthening PPE, essential medicines domestic supply chain

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking seeking comments on potential future policies to promote hospital procurement of domestically produced personal protective equipment and essential medicines. CMS is exploring the potential establishment of a “Secure American Medical Supplies” designation for hospitals procuring a minimum percentage of American-made PPE and essential medicines. CMS also seeks input on a potential separate Medicare payment to hospitals achieving the designation, and a structural measure for the hospital inpatient quality-reporting program asking hospitals to attest to procuring minimum percentages of PPE and essential medicines made domestically. CMS will accept comments through March 30. (CMS news release, 1/26/26)