On January 8, 2014, we noted several proposed changes to the Medicare Part C and D programs as delineated in CMS’ January 8th proposed rule (hereinafter “Proposed Rule”). On Monday, May 19, 2014, CMS issued the final rule, titled Medicare Program; Contract Year 2015 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage and the Medicare … Continue Reading
The Florida legislature is currently considering proposed legislation that may affect the way in which managed care organizations, insurers, third-party payors, pharmacy benefit managers and other entities audit pharmacies in Florida. The Florida House of Representatives, Health Innovation Subcommittee, is reviewing HB 745, which proposes to create a “Pharmacy audit bill of rights.” The Health … Continue Reading
Michigan’s Attorney General, Republican State Senator Joe Hune, and Steve Arwood, Director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs announced that they would collaborate on a Michigan bill to tighten regulations on compounding pharmacies. Over the past two years, compound pharmacies have been the subject of increasing controversy as these pharmacies create medications … Continue Reading
In January of 2005, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) finalized its regulation permitting Medicare Part D plans to establish networks of “preferred” and “non-preferred pharmacies,” meaning that the plans may offer lower cost-sharing to enrolled Medicare beneficiaries who receive items or services from a preferred pharmacy. 70 Fed. Reg. 4194 (Jan. 28, … Continue Reading
An article published today in the Columbus Dispatch shines a spotlight on physicians receiving payments from pharmaceutical companies for speaking and consulting engagements. The article identifies several central Ohio physicians who have received hundreds of thousands of dollars in fees from drug companies from 2009 through 2012. The Dispatch’s analysis, taken from data gathered by … Continue Reading
