Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Health Systems Flock To Fledgling Organization Created By Hospitals To Make Their Own Generic Drugs
Stat: Generic Drug Maker Formed By Hospitals Attracts A Dozen More Members
Responding to rising drug prices and persistent shortages, a dozen large hospital systems have joined Civica Rx, a fledgling not-for-profit generic manufacturer that was created last year by seven other big hospital groups with $100 million in backing from philanthropic organizations. All totaled, about 750 U.S. hospitals have joined the effort. The move is the latest sign of growing frustration among hospitals over pricing practices and quality-control issues that have hampered budgets and patient care. (Silverman, 1/7)
Modern Healthcare: Generic-Drug Initiative Civica Rx Welcomes 12 New Members
Utah-based not-for-profit generic-drug company Civica Rx was spearheaded by Intermountain Healthcare, SSM Health, Trinity Health and Ascenion, which is no longer part of the endeavor. The venture represents the frustration of the numerous hospitals that must work around persistent shortages of simple but vital drugs. Many health systems have formed internal teams and protocol to manage a seemingly ever-expanding list of pharmaceuticals that are in short supply. (Kacik, 1/7)
Houston Chronicle: Memorial Hermann To Partner With New, Non-Profit Generic Drug Company To Lower Costs
Memorial Hermann Health System has partnered with a new generic drug company formed to combat "artificially high" pharmaceutical prices and ease chronic drug shortages, the drug company announced Monday. Utah-based Civica Rx launched its generic drug initiative a year ago with strong Houston roots. The idea behind the venture is to allow hospital systems to "create their own priorities" in needed medications. (Deam, 1/7)
