Share of Cost, CMS Proposes Dropping 2 Classes of Part D Covered Drugs and Limiting Plan Offerings
Currently CMS requires Part D plans to cover the vast majority of drugs in six specific classes. One proposed change is to drop two of these categories next year (anti-depressants and immunosuppressant drugs) and then drop anti-pyschotics a year later. Several advocacy groups are concerned that this change would reduce people’s access and ability to get the drugs they require. They point out that not all drugs are the same and it’s important to have a wide range of drugs available. Another proposal is to limit the number of plans each plan sponsor can offer. Research shows that more choices aren’t necessarily better for seniors; it can actually be more overwhelming. Many beneficiaries tend to stick with a plan they originally pick.