New 340B bill Includes reporting requirements

Another bill has been filed to address the 340B drug discount program. The bill, HR 5598 filed by Rep. Buddy Carter of Georgia, will require that hospitals eligible for the discount due to their Disproportionate Share Hospital status file reports on the utilization of their outpatient services by indigent patients. NCHA is evaluating the impact of the bill on our member 340B health systems. Meanwhile, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has filed proposed rules that would require hospitals to post pricing information on their websites, available to consumers, but also in manners that could be used in electronic pricing tools and mobile applications. The policies would further advance the agency’s priority of creating a patient-driven healthcare system by achieving greater price transparency and interoperability – essential components of value-based care. NCHA is discussing with members potential barriers of the proposed rule.