Kidney PATIENT Act of 2023 Kidney Patient Access to Technologically Innovative and Essential Nephrology Treatments Act of 2023
Impact
If enacted, HB5074 would impact how oral drugs indicated for regulating serum phosphate levels in ESRD patients are handled within the Medicare payment framework. By delaying the inclusion of these oral-only drugs in the ESRD payment system, the bill aims to prevent potential disruptions in access to necessary treatments for patients who rely on these medications. The legislation is intended to ensure that patients continue to have options available while the FDA reviews alternative intravenous treatments.
Summary
House Bill 5074, known as the Kidney Patient Access to Technologically Innovative and Essential Nephrology Treatments Act of 2023, aims to amend certain provisions of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. The principal focus of the bill is to delay the implementation of a policy related to oral-only drugs used in treating end-stage renal disease (ESRD) under the Medicare ESRD prospective payment system. This policy change is significant as it seeks to extend the current regulations concerning the reimbursement timeline for these essential drugs.
Contention
There may be contention surrounding the potential implications of this bill regarding healthcare costs and patient access to essential treatments. Supporters argue that delaying implementation is critical for patient care, allowing for adequate evaluation of treatment options. However, critics may express concerns about the overarching costs of extended reimbursement policies and the potential impact on Medicare budgets. Additionally, the response from pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers who might be affected by these regulatory changes could play a crucial role in shaping the conversation around the bill.
A resolution to urge the United States Congress to pass the Kidney Patient Access to Technologically Innovative and Essential Nephrology Treatments (PATIENT) Act of 2023.