CMS takes small steps to cut Medicare drug costs

CMS proposed updates to Medicare Advantage and Part D programs, including measures to limit drug spending in Part D plans and to curtail opioid abuse. The center issued the proposals Friday in a draft of its annual call letter.

CMS would allow Part D plans to limit beneficiaries to a one-month supply of designated drugs, which the center said would eliminate waste from patients who discontinue treatment or change dosage. CMS also would encourage sponsors to inform patients when new drugs are added to formularies mid-year, and to direct beneficiaries to the Medicare Drug Spending Dashboard from the Medicare Plan Finder website to raise awareness of drug costs. ...