Opinion: After 30 years of 340B, it’s time for data and an honest conversation
The 340B Drug Discount Program turns 30 on Nov. 4. This once-obscure drug access program began modestly, but has grown to be the second-largest federal prescription drug program, behind Medicare Part D. It’s time, past time, really, for an honest conversation about it.
In a nutshell, the 340B program allows certain federally funded health clinics (grantees) and nonprofit hospitals (covered entities) to buy drugs for their outpatients at prices typically only available to state Medicaid programs: an average discount of 25% to 50%, and often as low as a penny per dose.
