Administration’s Benefit Rule Threatens Access and Affordability of Prescription Medicines

BIO’s Tom DiLenge, President of Advocacy, Law & Public Policy Division issued the following statement today after the Trump administration adopted a “Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2021” that allows health plans to block drug manufacturer discounts from helping to lower patients’ cost-sharing obligations:

“This decision by the Trump administration is truly baffling. At a time when insurance companies are enjoying high profits while patients are struggling financially, the administration has adopted a rule that will increase patients’ out-of-pocket drug costs, undermine access to necessary medications, and further pad insurance company profits. This misguided approach will ultimately jeopardize the health and well-being of patients and lead to increased spending on other, more costly medical services. The American people should be focused on staying healthy and financially secure during these difficult times, but this reckless regulatory change risks both.”

###