340B drug pricing debate pits hospitals vs. doctors vs. big pharma
The 340B drug discount program is currently under consideration for changes that will affect hospitals and physicians alike. Hospitals typically would like to keep the program how it is, while physicians are striving for reform. The drug discount program has been giving hospitals an advantage over independent practitioners by allowing hospitals to “sell 340B drugs to non-qualified patients, as a form of cross-subsidization” (Brino, 2015). As the debate ensues, lobbyists from both sides argue over the potential changes, which could mean a difference of millions of dollars for those hospitals currently receiving the drug discount. In June, the Health Resources and Services Administration will be issuing guidance on the discount program so please stay tuned for the outcome of this ongoing battle!