CMS Set Dates for 2028 Medicare Bidding Program
The agency has finalized the registration and bidding schedule for seven product categories in the upcoming round.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Healthcare
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The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has announced the official timeline for Round 2028 of the Medicare competitive bidding program. This cycle includes seven distinct product categories, with contracts and payment rates set to take effect on January 1, 2028.
Why it matters
The program helps stabilize medical supply costs by utilizing a competitive bidding model for specific categories. Establishing these deadlines ensures that healthcare providers have the necessary window to register and submit their financial bids for the upcoming contract period.
The program encompasses seven product categories, featuring defined bid limits such as $855.26 for off-the-shelf back braces and $273.28 for continuous glucose monitors. These figures serve as benchmarks for providers participating in the federal initiative.
The players
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
This federal agency within the United States Department of Health and Human Services administers the Medicare program and manages the competitive bidding process.
Competitive Bidding Implementation Contractor
This entity manages the administrative infrastructure and customer service support for the Medicare competitive bidding program.
The details
Providers must register for the program before the formal bidding window opens on January 5, 2027. Following the close of the bid window on March 10, 2027, the agency will initiate bidder notification and review processes, leading toward the full program implementation in 2028.
Timeline
Oct 7, 2026: CMS announced the program schedule and opened the customer service center.
Dec 1, 2026: Registration opens for all interested healthcare providers.
Jan 5, 2027: The competitive bidding window officially opens.
March 10, 2027: The competitive bidding window closes.
Jan 1, 2028: Round 2028 contracts and payment amounts take effect.
Market Landscape
This program reflects a long-standing federal effort to leverage market competition to control spending on medical equipment and supplies. The move positions the agency to refine cost structures across the healthcare sector as it prepares for the 2028 contract cycle.
These updates determine the payment rates for various medical supplies and equipment for the upcoming program year. Providers and suppliers should align their operational planning with the announced deadlines to ensure continued participation and contract eligibility.
The takeaway
Healthcare providers should carefully monitor the upcoming registration and bidding deadlines to remain compliant with Medicare requirements. Timely submission is critical as the agency moves through its review and notification phases prior to the 2028 contract start date.
What happens next
Registration for the 2028 program begins December 1, 2026, followed by the bid window opening on January 5, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on national medical initiatives, visit Healthcare.
Source note: This article includes information reported by HME Business.
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