Commissioner of human services directed to establish a prescription drug purchasing program, program authority and eligibility requirements specified, and recommendations required.
Impact
If enacted, HF1093 would impact existing state healthcare statutes by creating a new system for purchasing and administering prescription drugs through state coordination. The bill requires federal approval for implementation and mandates the commissioner to pursue the necessary regulations at the federal level. The anticipated effect is a centralized approach to drug purchasing that could lead to potential savings for the state and improved access for participants in public health assistance programs.
Summary
House File 1093 proposes the establishment of a prescription drug purchasing program managed by the commissioner of human services. This program aims to provide prescription drugs to participants in the medical assistance and MinnesotaCare programs under fee-for-service and managed care systems. The bill outlines the commissioner’s responsibilities, including obtaining drugs at the lowest possible prices and maintaining a list of the most effective drugs available at reasonable costs. This initiative seeks to improve health outcomes by offering comprehensive prescription benefit services.
Contention
There may be points of contention regarding the bill primarily around its implementation and funding. While the intention is to lower drug costs for participants, stakeholders may voice concerns about the efficacy of negotiations with pharmaceutical companies, the adequacy of the formulary, and the care standards maintained by pharmacies under the program. Additionally, the bill proposes to develop recommendations for expanding the program to health plan company enrollees, which may prompt discussions over disparity in coverage and access among different groups within the state.
Commissioner of human services directed to establish a prescription drug purchasing program, program authority and eligibility requirements specified, and report required.
Health plan companies and county-based purchasing plans providing prescription drug coverage in the medical assistance program dispensing fee requirements establishment
Manufacturers required to report and maintain prescription drug prices, filing of health plan prescription drug formularies required, health care coverage provisions modified, prescription benefit tool requirements established, and prescription drug benefit transparency and disclosure required.
Dispensing fee requirements imposed on health plan companies and county-based purchasing plans providing prescription drug coverage in the medical assistance program.
Commissioner of human services required to establish directed pharmacy dispensing payment to improve and maintain access to pharmaceutical services, and money appropriated.
Prescription contraceptives supply requirements establishment; health plan coverage of contraceptive methods, sterilization, related medical services, patient education and counseling requirement; accommodations for eligible organizations establishment