The National Consumers League (NCL) has announced the results of a national Morning Consult poll, which reveals significant public support for comprehensive reforms to the 340B Drug Pricing Program. This announcement was made through a press release.
Established in 1992 and administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the 340B Drug Pricing Program aims to assist healthcare providers in extending limited resources to serve vulnerable populations. It enables eligible entities to purchase outpatient drugs at reduced prices, with savings intended to enhance access to care for low-income and uninsured patients.
According to the Government Accountability Office, hospitals participating in the 340B program can reinvest savings into services such as medication assistance, expanded care access, and community outreach. However, there is no federal requirement mandating hospitals to report how they utilize 340B revenue. This lack of transparency has led to concerns about whether savings are consistently used for the benefit of low-income patients.
A 2023 analysis by Dan Crippen, former Director of the Congressional Budget Office, estimated that the 340B program reduces state and federal tax revenues by up to $17 billion annually. The analysis noted that $3.5 billion is lost at the state and local level, with the remainder affecting federal revenue. Crippen also estimated that the total value of 340B discounts reached $70 billion last year.
The National Consumers League was founded in 1899 and stands as the oldest consumer advocacy organization in the United States. Its mission is to protect and promote social and economic justice for consumers and workers nationwide, focusing on issues such as healthcare access, marketplace fairness, and labor rights.
Alerts Sign-up