October 19, 2023
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced on October 13 that HHS and Pfizer have reached an agreement that will transition Paxlovid, the COVID-19 therapeutic, to the commercial market.
Preparations for the transition will begin next month, but Paxlovid will remain available for ordering from HHS through December 15.
Individuals on Medicare and Medicaid will access free government-procured Paxlovid through a patient assistance program through the end of 2024. Individuals who are uninsured or underinsured will access free government-procured Paxlovid through a patient assistance program through the end of 2028.
Pfizer will operate a copay assistance program for those with private insurance through 2028. Pfizer has agreed to replenish any government-procured product that is about to expire with up-to-date product and has also agreed to provide HHS with a stockpile of 1 million treatment courses for future COVID-19 surges.
HHS is working on additional details, particularly about the patient assistance program. Pfizer has not yet announced cost details for Paxlovid, but there is media speculation that the cost will be several times the current government negotiated price of $530/course.
May 9, 2024
Registration is now open for the September 27 Empowering Physicians Conference, starring social media star Dr. Glaucomflecken (aka William E. Flanary, MD).
May 9, 2024
The House Health Finance and Policy Committee heard legislation that would establish explicit criteria and initiate a formal investigation process prior to dissolution of the Hennepin Healthcare System Board of Directors.
May 9, 2024
The House Ways and Means Committee referred the health omnibus bill to the House floor for a vote on May 6.