While we share a commitment to addressing the high cost of prescription drugs, we have significant concerns with Virginia H.B. 1724 that creates a Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB). We believe it will not translate into lower drug costs for patients and may dampen future drug development.
As the Committee considers the nomination of Mehmet C. Oz, M.D. to serve as CMS Administrator, the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute urges you to ensure the nominee will uphold a stalwart commitment to a comprehensive healthcare system that includes a robust private insurance market, along with strong Medicaid and Medicare programs. All are critical to making American healthier again and in ending the chronic diseases of HIV and hepatitis. Please find attached suggested questions for Dr. Oz concerning 1) a federal court decision regarding copay assistance for prescription drugs, 2) preventive services coverage under the ACA, 3) private insurance prescription drug coverage and affordability policies, and 4) the Medicare Part D six protected classes of prescription drugs.
The HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute, a leading organization advocating for equitable and affordable healthcare for individuals living with or at risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other chronic health conditions, strongly supports Senate Bill 45. This vital legislation ensures that health insurers accept and count payments made on behalf of patients toward their deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.
We commend the Colorado Division of Insurance for taking the initiative to update state guidance on PrEP coverage. We support a finalized regulation and bulletin that clarifies that all PrEP medications and services must be covered without prior authorization or cost-sharing. We urge you to clarify that all FDA-approved PrEP medications must be covered without prior authorization or cost-sharing.
By passing Senate Bill 17, New Hampshire will join 21 other states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico in protecting consumers purchasing insurance on the private market. This legislation ensures that copay assistance counts toward cost-sharing obligations, preventing patients from facing insurmountable financial barriers to their medications.