There is significant uncertainty in the 340B program due to the vagueness of the original statute. This uncertainty has created concerns that the program is open to abuse and pushes the need for clarification. Congress must revisit the 340B statute to ensure that financial savings realized by program participants is truly used to benefit patients.
New reform legislation introduced by Representatives Bucshon, Carter, and Harshbarger would address many of the current issues with the 340B program. The 340B ACCESS Act would establish clear rules to ensure long-term success of the program. By clarifying the intent of the program, the 340B ACCESS Act would ensure that qualifying low income and uninsured patients benefit directly through reduced out of pocket costs for their medications. Further, this Act would establish clear eligibility, minimize medical debt collection and provide direct medicare care for low-income uninsured patients.
