MMA Adds Its Support to Fight Practice of White Bagging

March 24, 2022

The MMA, along with several healthcare systems and specialty groups, has signed a letter supporting legislation that would prohibit the use of "white bagging."  

The practice involves insurance companies forcing medications that are administered in a clinic to be purchased through an insurer's exclusive pharmacy of choice. The medications, specifically for one patient, are then sent to a physician's office or a hospital where they are administered to patients. This new practice is being used for chemotherapy medications, certain ophthalmologic medications, and other physician administered drugs.   The practice adds unnecessary complexity to the physician/patient relationship, raises patient safety issues, and potential delays in patient care.  

The required use of “white bagging” replaces the current system where a clinic has a supply of needed medications in stock that can be used to address the patient’s needs. When the insurer requires the drug to be ordered for the patient from their pharmacy, it limits the physician’s ability to adjust the medications as needed when treating the patient. 

The bill (HF3280) is being carried in the House by Rep. Mike Freiberg, DFL-Golden Valley. It has not yet moved forward in the Senate.