340B Drug Pricing Program: A Lifeline for Healthcare
What is the 340B Drug Pricing Program?
The federal 340B Drug Pricing Program allows qualifying hospitals and clinics that treat low-income and uninsured patients to purchase outpatient prescription drugs at a discount of 25 to 50 percent. The program is designed to help safety-net health care providers stretch their financial resources to reach more financially vulnerable patients and provide broader services.
Who Benefits From the Program?
The 340B Program supports a diverse group of patients who depend on participating providers for their healthcare. This encompasses low-income individuals, uninsured or underinsured patients, and those residing in rural or medically underserved regions. Through reducing medication costs, the program ensures that communities can obtain necessary treatments for chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, and various health concerns.
Challenges The Program Faces
The primary challenges the 340B program faces are opposition from pharmaceutical manufacturers, legislative debates, and funding uncertainties. Despite concerns regarding fund management, it’s crucial to emphasize that hospitals and clinics are required to direct program funds towards subsidizing services and programs for patients. Efforts are needed to protect the program so that it can continue providing affordable medications to underserved populations.
How to Show Your Support
- Contact elected officials
- Participate in advocacy campaigns
- Inform others
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In this video, Teri, a One Community Health patient, shares her journey and highlights the critical role the 340B program has played in ensuring access to affordable medications.
Testimony from One Community Health Pharmacist, Lisa Sandoval advocating for fair 340B drug pricing.
