In brief: Appeals transition, Insulet raise, Heartland keynotes

WASHINGTON – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that, effective May 8, 2026, Chags Health Information Technology LLC (C-HIT) will no longer handle DMEPOS appeals and rebuttals. Responsibility for processing these submissions will transition to the National Provider Enrollment (NPE) DMEPOS contractors.

The two NPE contractors are: Palmetto GBA for the western half of the country (NPEC West) and Novitas for the eastern half (NPEC East). 

 What this means for suppliers:

• Beginning May 8, all appeals and rebuttals must be submitted to the respective NPE.
• Submissions made prior to May 8 will continue to be processed by C-HIT.
• This change will not impact the appeals and rebuttals process itself, including requirements, timelines, and documentation.

Suppliers will need to update their submission processes and ensure appeals and rebuttals are directed to the correct contractor.

• Read the announcement here.

Insulet sees momentum, raises outlook

ACTON, Mass. – Insulet reported revenue of $761.7 million for the first quarter of 2026, an increase of 33.9% over the prior year. Total Omnipod revenue was $758.4 million, up 36.9%. Of that, U.S. Omnipod revenue was $515.6 million and international Omnipod revenue was $242.9 million.

“We started the year strong, delivering continued growth momentum and robust operating margin expansion in the first quarter,” said Ashley McEvoy, president and CEO. “Our team executed on our strategic priorities, growing our global Podder community and strengthening our leadership in the AID market, and we are raising our total company revenue growth outlook to reflect our progress. We are confident in our ability to achieve our long‑term growth objectives by accelerating innovation, developing our markets, strengthening our commercial engine, and scaling our global operations.”

Recent strategic highlights:

• Launched Omnipod 5 and Omnipod Discover in five countries in the Middle East, bringing Omnipod 5 availability to 19 countries
• Completed a U.S. limited market release of Omnipod 5 algorithm with FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus, further broadening sensor connectivity across leading CGM platforms
• Repurchased 1.25 million shares of common stock

VGM Heartland keynotes announced

WATERLOO, Iowa — David Atkins and Joe Delagrave will serve as the keynote speakers for the 2026 VGM Heartland Conference, June 8–10, 2026, in Waterloo, Iowa.

• Atkins, a retired New York State Police captain, 9/11 first responder and author of “The One Decision Away Philosophy,” will challenge audiences to recognize how a single courageous decision can change momentum and unlock lasting personal and professional growth.
• Delagrave, a two‑time Paralympic medalist and head coach of the U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team, will share a powerful story of perseverance, leadership, and transformation. After a boating accident left him paralyzed at 19, Delagrave went on to become one of the sport’s most decorated athletes and leaders, earning Paralympic, World Championship, and Parapan Games medals.

“Heartland has always been about more than education. It’s about connection, collaboration, and momentum,” said Shanon Eckhardt, Heartland pillar chair. “As we celebrate 25 years, Atkins and Delagrave are the perfect voices to help set the tone for what’s next, encouraging our community to think bigger, lead stronger, and continue advancing care at home.”

Registration for Heartland Conference is currently open. For full conference details, keynote updates, and registration information, visit vgmheartland.com.

• Related: Connections take center stage at VGM Heartland Conference.

Tactile Medical reports ‘broad-based’ performance

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – Tactile Systems Technology reported total revenue of $75.3 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, an increase of 23% year-over-year. Net loss was $1.8 million vs. $3 million, and adjusted EBITDA was $3.7 million vs. $0.3 million. “We delivered a strong start to 2026, with first quarter revenue growth of 23% year-over-year driven by disciplined execution of our strategic priorities,” said Sheri Dodd, CEO. “Performance in the quarter was broad-based and reflected the strength and durability of our go-to-market strategy, including increased productivity from a fully resourced sales organization, growing access to advanced therapy under the NCD, and continued momentum across both lymphedema and airway clearance. Importantly, this top line strength translated into meaningful expansion in gross margin and adjusted EBITDA, underscoring the operating leverage in our model.”

Company highlights in the quarter:

• Expanded AI-enabled order management platform with the implementation of new operational capabilities to execute the Medicare prior authorization requirement for PCDs
• Repurchased $1.1 million of stock under the company’s share repurchase program
• Received FDA 510(k) clearance for next-generation AffloVest airway clearance device

Related: Tactile Medical uses heat maps to drive payer policy changes.

NYC Care marks successful first year for DME program

NEW YORK – NYC Care in its first year supported 2,652 patients with low- and no-cost durable medical equipment (DME) to support increased autonomy, reduced risk of injury, improved quality of life, and better pain management. NYC Care members access low- and no-cost DME like CPAP machines and associated accessories, diabetes-related supplies, mobility devices, and urinary supplies through its exclusive partner AdaptHealth. “Since we launched the durable medical equipment benefit last year, we have heard so many stories from members whose equipment allowed them to live healthier and longer lives,” said Jonathan Jiménez, MD, MPH, executive director of NYC Care from NYC Health + Hospitals. “Durable medical equipment, the fruits of biomedical science, is an essential part of health care and needs to be available to all people. Thanks to the generous foundation grant, I am thrilled to announce that we can support even more NYC Care members who previously had to pay out-of-pocket with essential durable medical equipment.” The most requested devices were CPAP and associated accessories (1,351) and mobility/assistive devices (636). This year, NYC Care will expand access to the benefit through a $200,000 private foundation grant.

Ottobock re-ups partnership with Angel City Sports

AUSTIN, Texas, and LOS ANGELES – Ottobock is proud to continue its longstanding partnership with Angel City Sports at the 2026 Angel City Games this June. Now a cornerstone of the Angel City Games experience, Ottobock's Full Circle Movement event invites members of the limb loss and limb difference community of all ages and abilities to explore movement in an inclusive, supportive environment. Taking place on June 26, the event offers hands-on opportunities to trial prosthetic technology, receive expert coaching and connect with a vibrant adaptive sports community. "Our partnership with Angel City Sports reflects a shared belief that movement should be accessible to everyone," said Melissa Langley, director of marketing communications at Ottobock North America. "As we look ahead to LA28, moments like these are critical in building pathways for athletes, raising awareness, and strengthening the community that supports them." Ahead of the Full Circle Movement event, Ottobock will host The Athlete's Corner, an exclusive continuing education experience for clinicians and health care professionals on June 25 in Torrance, Calif. Designed for prosthetists, physical therapists and other mobility specialists, The Athlete's Corner provides in-depth training on running prosthetic technology, clinical decision-making, and best practices for supporting adaptive athletes. Attendees can earn continuing education credits while gaining hands-on insights from leading experts in the field.

Medline unveils new commercial solar installation

GRAYSLAKE, Ill. – Medline and PowerFlex, a clean-technology solutions company, recently unveiled a completed 5.2-megawatt solar installation at Medline’s flagship distribution center in Grayslake, Ill. The investment includes more than 11,500 solar panels and is projected to produce 5,900 megawatt hours of energy per year. This installation is Medline’s 12th solar project and adds to the more than 59,000 existing solar panels at Medline facilities as of Dec. 31, 2025. “Medline is proud to support a more resilient healthcare system,” said Francesa Olivier, vice president of sustainability. “This latest installation advances our efforts to reduce environmental impact across our operations while making healthcare run better.” The 1.4 million-square-foot Grayslake site opened its doors in 2022 and has grown to provide more than 900 jobs in the community. Deliveries from Grayslake are made to health care customers throughout Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and the northern half of Indiana. “Medline continues to invest in the resiliency of the supply chain, and this is one of the latest examples as part of our investment in our distribution centers and manufacturing facilities, to not only make healthcare run better, but to reflect thoughtful energy choices across our operations,” said Casey Guth, vice president of regional field sales for Medline.   

VGM Forbin adds new VP of product innovation

WATERLOO, Iowa – VGM Forbin has announced that Page Smith, a seasoned IT and digital executive with more than 18 years of experience leading enterprise technology, digital transformation, and high growth teams, has joined the organization as vice president of product innovation. “Page’s experience at the intersection of technology, digital strategy, and business growth is exactly what we need in our new VP of product innovation role as VGM Forbin continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with our web, marketing, and IT products,” said Cassi Price, president of VGM Forbin. “His collaborative mindset reflects the same spirit shared across our technology leadership—focused on working together to deliver innovative, scalable solutions. His background in leading digital transformation and building high-performing teams aligns perfectly with where we’re headed.” Smith brings broad experience across marketing agencies, consumer goods, technology strategy and business outcomes, most recently serving as vice president of technology at Brownells / 2nd Adventure Group. “I am incredibly honored and excited to be joining VGM Forbin as VP of Product Innovation and to begin this next chapter with an organization that has such a strong reputation for innovation, service, and industry leadership,” Smith said.

WellSky launches ambient AI solution

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – WellSky says it has launched the first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered ambient documentation solution purpose-built for personal care agencies. WellSky Ambient Documentation for Personal Care is embedded directly within the WellSky Personal Care platform to help care teams reduce documentation burden, accelerate client onboarding, and improve the quality and consistency of care plan documentation. “Personal care is often the most consistent presence in a client’s life, and its effectiveness depends on the quality of the assessments and documentation that support it,” said Tim Ashe, chief clinical officer and general manager at WellSky. “With AI capabilities embedded within the existing workflows, WellSky is helping care teams capture critical information more naturally, reducing administrative burden and allowing caregivers to focus on delivering better outcomes for clients.” During onboarding and intake conversations between care coordinators and clients, the WellSky Ambient Documentation solution captures information spoken out loud about activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), client preferences, and care coordinator observations – in real time. This information automatically populates in the care plan documentation within the WellSky Personal Care solution. Staff can then review, verify and submit the required assessments.

Circle Specialty expands presence on social media

BROOKLYN, N.Y. – Circle Specialty, Inc. (CSI), a manufacturer of pediatric mobility and positioning equipment, has a new social media presence to strengthen communication with clinicians, assistive technology professionals (ATPs), dealers, partners and the families who rely on their products. The company says these new channels will provide a central place for updates, product information, educational content and announcements related to the company’s growing portfolio. “Social media gives us an opportunity to communicate more directly and consistently with the clinicians and providers who use our products every day,” said Abraham Goldstein, president and co-founder. “We’re excited to create opportunities where people can stay informed, learn from one another and follow what’s ahead for Circle Specialty.” CSI will leverage social media to share insights on product features, clinical considerations, new releases and company developments, along with practical resources designed to help professionals deliver the best possible outcomes for the individuals they serve. Follow CSI on the following channels:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/CircleSpecialty/
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/CircleSpecialty/
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/Circle-Specialty/

Numotion names Andrea Dedrick to lead people strategy

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – Numotion has named Andrea Dedrick as chief human resources officer to lead its people strategy, focusing on leadership development, culture and workforce transformation, HR Today reports. In her role, Dedrick will support the company’s “Boldly Compassionate” culture, while strengthening talent capabilities and enabling teams to deliver meaningful impact for customers, the company says. Prior to joining Numotion, Dedrick spent more than 27 years at GE HealthCare, most recently serving as head of HR – US & Canada, where she led people strategy for a $7 billion business with nearly 8,000 employees. Her extensive tenure at GE HealthCare includes multiple global HR leadership roles across imaging technology, supply chain and commercial operations, where she drove large-scale transformation, talent development and organizational design initiatives. Earlier in her career, Dedrick held HR leadership roles at Eaton Corporation.

ProCare launches new DME service line

TAMPA, Fla. – ProCare, a privately held transportation and language services provider in the workers compensation industry, has launched a new durable medical equipment (DME) service line. The company says it developed its DME program to address common industry challenges, including billing complexity, communication gaps, adherence issues and rising costs. “Health care is evolving and injured workers expect simpler, faster and more connected experiences,” said Cortland Reilly, CEO of ProCare. “Our technology-driven approach to DME removes barriers and ensures injured workers receive the equipment they need – when they need it – without unnecessary complexity.” The program offers:

• Automated notifications to keep stakeholders aligned
• Prescription clarification and verification to reduce delays
• Real-time order, shipment and delivery tracking
• Optimized, competitive pricing with transparent savings reporting
• Customizable reporting and benchmarking
• Formulary controls that reduce waste and manage recurring supplies

At the core of the program, ProCare says, is a proprietary catalog featuring more than 15,000 commonly used, cost-effective medical items for workers compensation claims.