Letter to New Mexico state senators in support of copay accumulator ban bill (HB 129/a)

Dear Senators:

The HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute is a national HIV and hepatitis policy organization promoting quality and affordable healthcare for people living with or at risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other serious and chronic health conditions. We strongly support House Bill 129/a, which would require health insurers and health care service contractors to accept and count payments made on behalf of patients towards deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. This bill, introduced by Senator Daniel Ivey-Soto and Representative Kelly Fajardo, was passed in the House of Representatives on February 28th by an overwhelmingly supportive vote of 66 to 2. We urge you to vote “YES” on this critical bill for patients.

Copay accumulators are harmful policies that many insurance plans, employers, and pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) are implementing in which copay assistance does not count towards a beneficiary’s out-of-pocket costs and deductible. By passing this bill, New Mexico will join other states (Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, West Virginia, Virginia, and soon-to-be Kentucky) and Puerto Rico in protecting consumers. Currently, at least five out of six insurance policies sold in the New Mexico marketplace include these harmful insurance policies.

People with HIV, hepatitis, and others with serious and chronic conditions rely on medications to remain healthy and alive. People with HIV and hepatitis B rely on a daily drug regimen that they must take for the rest of their lives, while people with hepatitis C can be cured of their diseases in as little as 8 to 12 weeks. However, even though people may have health insurance, access to these medications is still insurmountable for many due to high deductibles and cost-sharing, often in terms of co-insurance. Copay assistance is critical for patients to afford and adhere to their medications.

For the benefit of patients who rely on prescription drugs to maintain their health, we urge you to yes vote on HB 129/a. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out via phone at (202) 462-3042 or email. Thank you very much.

Carl E. Schmid II

Executive Director