IfPA Policy Brief Considers Impact of CMS Notice on Hepatitis Patients
In a November 2015 notice the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services warned that states rationing costly hepatitis C cures may “unreasonably restrict access” for Medicaid patients.
Oncologists Call for Clinical Pathways Reform
A tool designed to deliver cost-effective, quality cancer care needs reform, announced the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in a January policy statement.
World Health Organization Finalizes Distinct Naming Scheme for Biological Medicines
After years of international debate, the World Health Organization has issued its final proposal embracing distinct names for biological medicines, including biosimilars.
Senate Finance Committee Tackles Chronic Care Policy
January 26 ended the public comment period for the U.S. Senate Finance Committee’s chronic care working group policy options paper—cueing the group’s legislative efforts to begin in earnest.
Final Mammogram Recommendations Perpetuate Confusion, Debate
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has issued final guidance on how often and at what age women should receive mammograms to screen for breast cancer.
Congressional Doctors Caucus Urges FDA to Consider Physician Input on Biosimilar Labeling
It’s time for clarity about the prescribing information that accompanies biosimilar medications, the U.S. House Doctors Caucus told the FDA in a Dec. 21, 2015 letter.
Rising Deductibles Boost Patients’ Use of Critical Illness Plans
Patients diagnosed with debilitating conditions often struggle to pay the high deductibles required for their health plans to begin covering treatment. Now, a product designed by insurers to fill the gap for these patients is on the rise.
New IfPA Policy Brief Explores Multimodal Analgesia
A safer, more comprehensive approach to managing pain before, during and after surgery exists – yet not all patients can access it.
2016 Ushers in Tighter Vaccine Laws
The new year brings tighter laws on childhood vaccinations in several states—many spurred by California’s 2015 measles outbreak and the nationwide public health debate that followed.
Florida Board of Pharmacy’s New Rule Could Ease Access for Pain Patients
The Florida Board of Pharmacy has an answer for patients who struggle to get the pain medications their physician prescribes: pharmacist education and improved state guidelines.
