Statement By 340B Health Interim President and CEO Maureen Testoni on Final Medicare Rule Cutting Payments to 340B Hospitals
WASHINGTON, D.C.— “We are disappointed that CMS is continuing this misguided and damaging policy. Cutting Medicare payments for drugs for patients treated in 340B hospitals by nearly 30 percent will damage the healthcare safety net that serves uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid patients across the country.”
“We have already seen the negative impact these cuts are having on patient care. Our member hospitals report that they have had to cut back on services and have had to forgo hiring or lay off doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. St. Mary-Corwin Hospital in Pueblo, Colo., closed its surgical unit, reduced the size of its intensive care unit, and eliminated 300 jobs in the aftermath of the 2018 cut. Clifton Springs Hospital in Clifton, N.Y., reports it has been unable to fill pharmacy staff positions that would help patients with medication reconciliation.”
“We continue to believe these regulations are in violation of both the Medicare statute and the law creating 340B and encourage Congress to reverse these cuts and restore stability to hospitals as quickly as possible.”
Contact: Richard Sorian at richard.sorian@340bhealth.org or 202-536-2285.