CMS seeks input on strengthening domestic supply chains for PPE, essential medicines

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Jan. 26 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 that procure a minimum percentage of American-made PPE and essential medicines. CMS also seeks input on a potential separate Medicare payment to hospitals that achieve the designation, and a structural measure for the hospital inpatient quality reporting program asking hospitals to attest to procuring minimum percentages of domestically-made PPE and essential medicines. CMS is accepting comments through March 30.