CMS Wound Care Rule Faces Backlash Over Patient Access

A new analysis of more than 6,000 public comments submitted on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rule CMS-1832-P shows widespread concern that the policy could severely restrict access to advanced wound care treatments for vulnerable patients.

The proposal, which would reclassify skin substitutes as supplies and reduce reimbursement rates by as much as 80 percent, has sparked backlash from clinicians, industry groups, and even patients who warn the cuts would make it nearly impossible to provide advanced wound care in homes and assisted living facilities.

Dr. Chris Mason, CEO of Rebirth Advanced Healing, said he supports CMS's efforts to bring greater oversight and consistency to reimbursement policy but cautioned that the rule, as written, goes too far.

"By cutting reimbursement rates so drastically, it risks taking away access to advanced treatments for the very patients who need them most, particularly those being cared for at home or in assisted living facilities," Mason said.

Among the public comments reviewed, concerns about assisted living and home health care dominated, underscoring the unique challenges of managing chronic wounds outside of hospitals.

One nurse practitioner wrote:
"Establishing a consistent, predictable basis for reimbursement is a sound policy goal. However, the proposed uniform rate would significantly reduce access for patients treated at home or in assisted living, where chronic wounds are most often managed."

Another clinician warned:
"Cutting reimbursement by 80% goes too far. Patients with diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers will lose access to care in the very settings where healing actually happens - their homes and assisted living facilities."

Others urged CMS not to reclassify amniotic grafts as "supplies," citing their proven clinical value and warning that doing so would leave providers with untenable choices.

Rebirth Advanced Healing recently released its own second quarter wound care results, further demonstrating the value of advanced wound care. Of 143 patients treated across Virginia, South Carolina, and New York, 140 experienced measurable improvement, a 98% wound improvement rate.

The public comment period for CMS-1832-P remains open until Friday, September 12, 2025. CMS is expected to finalize the rule later this year, with implementation slated for January 1, 2026.

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PR Contact: Elizabeth Huff
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Rebirth Advanced Healing is a leading mobile wound care practice that utilizes personalized biologic wound care treatment to help patients with wounds heal safely and comfortably wherever they call home. Our certified wound care specialists include doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, who are extensively trained and qualified to perform wound care treatments using biological products and advanced techniques. With a 98% wound improvement rate in 2025, Rebirth is committed to advancing patient outcomes while ensuring equitable access to care. To learn more about Rebirth, visit www.rebirthheals.com.

This release was published on openPR.