CMS Withdraws Skin Substitute LCDs Scheduled for 2026

On December 24, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that A/B Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) are withdrawing the Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) for Skin Substitute Grafts/Cellular and Tissue-Based Products for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Venous Leg Ulcers. These LCDs were scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026. With the withdrawal of these LCDs, there are no changes to skin substitute coverage for Part B Medicare beneficiaries in the new year; however, the payment changes finalized in the CY 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule remain in effect. Additionally, three Part B MACs (Novitas, CGS, and First Coast) have active skin substitute policies.

APMA will continue to monitor CMS guidance and MAC activity closely and will share updates as additional information becomes available. To stay informed, visit APMA's new Skin Substitute Resource Page for updates and information on recent and upcoming skin substitute changes.