HHS Launches Initiative to Expand Access to Prescription Drugs for Community Health Clinics, Safety-Net Patients
HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson on June 18 announced a new initiative that will help community health centers and other "safety-net providers" to expand "their ability to buy ... and improve access" to prescription drugs for patients. Through demonstration projects, the new initiative will allow community health networks and other organizations participating in the 340B drug discount program -- which requires drug manufacturers to sell drugs to "specified safety-net health care providers" at a 25% to 40% discount -- to reduce administrative costs and "make buying drugs easier" for patients. "Through this initiative, organizations will be able to stretch scarce resources and buy more of the drugs their patients need," Thompson said, adding "The initiative responds to proposals from local safety-net providers and it exemplifies our commitment to support grassroots efforts that improve primary care services for uninsured and underserved Americans." Groups that receive approval for demonstration projects can participate in single purchasing and distribution systems that serve "covered entity networks"; contract with multiple pharmacy services providers; and use contracted pharmacy services to supplement "in-house" pharmacy services. In addition, HHS will place time limits on approved demonstration projects, which the agency will evaluate on "benefits provided as well as on compliance with requirements of the 340B law." HHS also plans to include "successful" demonstration projects in the 340B program's published guidelines. Eligible organizations should submit proposals to HRSA's
Office of Pharmacy Affairs (
HHS release, 6/18). To view a description of the proposal requirements and to review criteria, click
here. Please note this link is available to Web readers only.
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