AATB Advocacy Helps Secure Delay in CMS LCD Implementation for Skin Substitute Grafts

On Friday, April 11, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the final Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) for Skin Substitute Grafts/Cellular and Tissue-Based Products for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Venous Leg Ulcers will now take effect on January 1, 2026.

This decision aligns with AATB’s repeated calls for additional time to ensure member organizations can gather and submit clinical evidence to support coverage, including direct advocacy during our February Capitol Hill visit.
As CMS continues to review and refine its policies, the agency is encouraging the submission of peer-reviewed publications and high-quality study findings from public sources. Submissions can be sent to CAGInquiries@cms.hhs.gov.

AATB remains committed to supporting its members and the tissue banking community through continued engagement and advocacy as this process moves forward.