CMS mulling modifications to proposed Part B model

CMS's Patrick Conway told reporters Wednesday that the agency is listening to congressional criticisms and concerns about its proposed change to reimbursement policies for Medicare Part B drugs, and will make adjustments "as needed."

Conway, CMS's deputy administrator for innovation & quality and CMO, addressed questions about the proposal to change reimbursement to physicians and medical practices from a drug's average sales price (ASP) plus 6% to ASP plus 2.5% and a flat fee, in 75% of the U.S. The change would be the first phase of a large-scale experiment that would eventually include some form of value-based payments for drugs (see BioCentury, March 14). ...