HHS is reversing course on its latest delay of a regulation that aims to prevent drug companies from overcharging hospitals under the 340B drug discount program.
Here are four things to know:
1. The proposed rule will not only set drug price ceilings for the 340B program, but will also grant HHS authority to fine drugmakers for overcharging hospitals.
2. Since its introduction in 2010, the proposed rule has been delayed five times. Most recently, the rule was set to take effect July 1, 2019.
3. However, on Oct. 31 HHS announced plans to "cease any further delay of the rule and change the effective date to Jan. 1, 2019."
4. CMS is accepting comments through Nov. 24 on the new implementation date for the 340B ceiling price rule.
Access the full notice of proposed rulemaking here.