This Week on Policy and Medicine Podcast November 23, 2024: Legal Battles, Regulatory Updates, and Unveiling Silent Threats

This week on the Policy and Medicine Podcast, November 23, 2024 we take a comprehensive look at some of the most pressing issues in healthcare policy and regulation. The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of a major $300 million settlement agreed upon by drug distributors with insurance companies to resolve claims  from the opioid crisis and drug prices. This significant financial repercussion underscores the ongoing scrutiny and legal challenges facing the pharmaceutical distribution sector.

In a landmark action, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has launched a lawsuit against Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs). The FTC alleges that their rebate practices are anti-competitive and ultimately detrimental to consumers, highlighting a critical area of regulatory enforcement that could have widespread implications for drug pricing and market competition.

Further in the episode, we discuss the Health and Human Services (HHS) proposal for a new rule that aims to update health IT regulations. This rule focuses on enhancing the interoperability and security of health information systems, a step seen as vital for the future of healthcare data management and patient care.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have also made headlines with their final rule through the Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS). This rule emphasizes team-based care approaches, aiming to improve care coordination and patient outcomes, marking a significant shift in how care delivery is structured.

Additionally, we explore the Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board’s (PDAB) recent draft action plan. This plan proposes establishing upper payment limits (UPLs) to control drug costs within the state, potentially setting a precedent for other states considering similar measures.

Lastly, the podcast addresses a less visible but increasingly concerning health issue—fatty liver disease. With millions affected worldwide, the discussion emphasizes the need for greater awareness, research, and proactive management of this “silent threat.”

Join us for these insightful discussions on the latest healthcare policy changes and their implications, The This week’s episode of Policy and Medicine Podcast is now available now on Spotify and other podcasting platforms.