BioNJ submitted comments on a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rule that looks to make several changes to the Medicare Advantage and Part D programs. The proposed rule targets Part D "protected classes," step therapy in Medicare Advantage for Part B drugs and price concessions at point of sale.

 

BioNJ's comments note concerns with the proposal to further introduce step therapy -- more commonly known as "fail first" -- into the Medicare program. BioNJ strongly believes that Patients should have access to the right treatment at the right time. Unfortunately, fail first policies can have the effect of creating an artificial barrier to timely Patient access to necessary treatments, placing a health plan between the Patient and their physician. BioNJ urges CMS to reconsider the additional barriers to Patient access that will be placed on Medicare beneficiaries as a result of this proposal.

 

Comments on the proposed rule are due January 25 and can be submitted here.  Please contact John Slotman, BioNJ Vice President, Government Affairs, at JSlotman@BioNJ.org or 609.890.3185 should you have any questions.