CMS Seeks Comments on Bolstering Domestic Supplies of PPE, Essential Medicines
- January 30, 2026
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking input from hospitals, manufacturers, and the public on ways to strengthen and ensure a more reliable domestic supply chain for personal protective equipment (PPE) and essential medicines.
CMS published January 29 an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) (91 Fed. Reg. 3851) floating potential options including a new “Secure American Medical Supplies” designation for Medicare-participating hospitals committed to domestic procurement paired with streamlined payment structures to support that effort.
The agency also wants comments on a potential structural quality measure as part of the Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting Program to promote hospital investments in domestic procurement.
The agency wants to lessen reliance on foreign sources of medical supplies building on lessons learned early in the COVID-19 pandemic, which was marked by widespread supply chain disruptions for critical items of PPE such as surgical respirators. Drug shortages also have been an ongoing issue.
“Under the Trump Administration, we are committed to rebuilding American resilience by empowering providers and suppliers that invest in U.S.-made medical products,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “This ANPRM is an important step toward securing the nation’s health and safety, preparing for future emergencies, and promoting American jobs and manufacturing.”
Comments are due March 30.