Patient Access Act of 2024
The bill specifically addresses the potential barriers patients face due to high out-of-pocket costs associated with receiving medical treatments far from their homes. By allowing drug manufacturers to defray these costs, it aims to ensure that more patients can access essential drugs, especially for those living in remote areas or those requiring specialized therapies. This can particularly benefit individuals with low incomes or those without nearby healthcare facilities administering their prescribed medication. However, the bill is designed with safeguards to prevent overlap with assistance that could be provided at no cost from healthcare facilities.
House Bill 9184, titled the Patient Access Act of 2024, aims to amend Title XI of the Social Security Act by excluding certain travel and lodging arrangements between drug manufacturers and individuals receiving such drugs from antikickback and other sanctions. The bill proposes that manufacturers can reimburse patients and, under certain conditions, their caregivers for transportation, lodging, meals, and other related expenses incurred while receiving necessary medical treatments. This legislative change is anticipated to enhance patient access to transformative therapies and medication by alleviating financial burdens related to travel and accommodation for healthcare services.
Despite its intention to improve access to healthcare, HB9184 may encounter criticism regarding the potential for conflicts of interest and ethical concerns surrounding the role of drug manufacturers. Critics may argue that allowing manufacturers to fund travel and accommodation creates the risk of undue influence or coercion on patients to choose certain medications. Furthermore, oversight regarding the appropriateness and necessity of such arrangements will be critical in ensuring these practices remain ethical and beneficial for patient care. The bill also calls for a study on the impact of such arrangements, which may highlight disparities in access to medications, especially for marginalized communities.