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This week, we are joined by Lauren Aronson, executive director for the Campaign for Sustainable Drug Pricing (CSRxP). CSRxP is a coalition of health care leaders, including providers, hospitals, patients, and health plans, that monitors drug pricing developments and promotes bipartisan solutions to lower U.S. drug prices. Lauren discusses recent alarming drug pricing trends, the role 340B plays in the drug pricing debate, and expectations for drug pricing legislation in 2022. Before the interview, we give an update on the 340B contract pharmacy dispute. 

Trends in Drug Pricing

CSRxP was formed in response to a hepatitis C drug that hit the market at an exorbitant price. Lauren shares how high drug prices affect all aspects of health care, notes the drugmakers that already have raised their prices in 2022, and outlines CSRxP’s key principles for addressing drug pricing problems. 

340B’s Impact on Drug Pricing

Lauren explains how 340B provides critical value to the nation because it enables hospitals, providers, and patients to access drugs at affordable prices. She comments on CSRxP’s concerns about drug companies attempting to defend their restrictions on 340B pricing in federal courts. 

Steps to Lower Drug Prices 

Drug pricing is one issue on which there is consistent bipartisan agreement. Lauren explains the need for coordination among federal government regulatory agencies to confront drug pricing issues. She also recaps what Congress has done in recent years to address drug prices and where drug pricing legislation might lead in 2022.

Check out all of our episodes on the 340B Insight podcast website. You also can stay updated on all 340B Health news and information by visiting our homepage. If you have any questions you’d like us to cover in this podcast, email us at [email protected].

Resources 

1. Pfizer Contract Pharmacy Restrictions Target Xeljanz, Oncology Drugs In Limited Distribution Network 
2. CSRxP: Big Pharma’s Business-As-Usual Approach to January Price Hikes Underscores Urgency For Rx Solutions 
3. CMS Proposes Narrowly Covering Controversial Alzheimer's Drug Aduhelm for Patients In Clinical Trials
4. U.S. House of Representatives Oversight Committee Drug Pricing Investigation