WASHINGTON, D.C.— September 20, 2023 — Today, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) submitted a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) commenting on draft guidance related to the maximum monthly cap on patient co-payments under prescription drug plans, referred to as the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan, which will begin in plan year 2025.
The letter comes as Congress begins to implement key provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
A statement from Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) follows:
“We appreciate the administration’s proposal to support patients, including those impacted by cancer, who may struggle to afford their medications by providing the option to spread out copayments for Part D prescription plans over time and ensuring transparency for enrollees through the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.
“Research continues to show that high copayments can decrease medication adherence, which results in negative health outcomes. CMS’ proposed actions to impose out-of-pocket caps and increase payment flexibility via multiple payment options and selection of charge dates can help ease the patient burden and improve access to care for Medicare beneficiaries.
“We urge CMS to expand the proposed policy to follow enrollment in the program at the point of sale. We additionally stand ready to work with CMS to develop materials to better educate enrollees, their families, and other stakeholders about the options and responsibilities of the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.”
