New Jersey Senate Bill S3962

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/15/23
• Refer: 6/15/23

Caption

Requires prescription drug services covered under Medicaid program to be provided via fee-for-service delivery system.

Impact

By requiring a shift from a managed care to a fee-for-service model, S3962 is projected to bring significant savings to state expenditures on Medicaid. The legislative text notes that similar policies in other states, such as West Virginia and New York, have resulted in substantial financial savings for their Medicaid programs while increasing access for patients. The bill also aims to create a more equitable system for pharmacy providers by reducing reliance on out-of-state pharmacy benefit managers, thereby facilitating a fairer distribution of funds within the local economy.

Summary

Senate Bill S3962 mandates that prescription drug services covered under the Medicaid program in New Jersey be provided via a fee-for-service delivery system rather than the current managed care model. This change is aimed at improving the fiscal sustainability of the Medicaid program while ensuring that recipients receive necessary medications at a reasonable cost. The bill outlines specific reimbursement protocols for various classes of prescription drugs, including brand name, generic, and specialty drugs, ensuring that costs are based on established federal pricing measures.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding S3962 may include the operational transition for providers currently working within the managed care system. Stakeholders may express concerns about the adequacy of reimbursement rates and the administrative burden imposed on pharmacists and healthcare providers as they adapt to the new system. Additionally, there are ongoing debates about the balance between cost-saving measures and maintaining the quality of care provided to Medicaid recipients, particularly regarding access to necessary medications and specialty care.