The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions recently held a hearing to examine the 340B Drug Pricing Program. The focus was on the program's growth and its effects on patients. The American Hospital Association (AHA) submitted a statement supporting the program, emphasizing its role in reducing drug costs and offsetting chronic underpayments from Medicare and Medicaid.
The AHA highlighted the significance of the 340B program for rural communities. According to their statement, "Most rural hospitals lose money when providing critical medical services needed in their communities and therefore rely on 340B savings to remain operational and provide specialty care." They warned that without these services, rural patients might have to travel long distances for similar care, which could be unfeasible for many.
For more information about the Senate Committee's activities, visit https://www.help.senate.gov/.
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