FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement attributable to:
Beth Feldpush, DrPH
Senior Vice President of Policy and Advocacy
America’s Essential Hospitals
WASHINGTON—We are disappointed by today’s U.S. District Court opinion denying the federal government’s motion to dismiss AstraZeneca’s challenge of requirements that manufacturers meet their obligations under the 340B Drug Pricing Program statute.
We believe the law is clear: Drug manufacturers must provide 340B discounts on prescription drugs dispensed through any means, including contract pharmacies. AstraZeneca and other manufacturers have skirted these mandates by unlawfully withholding discounts or erecting onerous administrative barriers to providing discounts.
Essential hospitals and the health of the low-income patients they serve are at risk from manufacturers’ refusal to comply with their legal obligations under the 340B program, and we will continue to oppose these harmful actions.
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About America’s Essential Hospitals
America’s Essential Hospitals is the leading champion for hospitals and health systems dedicated to high-quality care for all, including the most vulnerable. We support our more than 300 members with advocacy, policy development, research, and education. Communities depend on essential hospitals to provide specialized, lifesaving services; train the health care workforce; advance public health and health equity; and coordinate care. Essential hospitals innovate and adapt to lead the way to more effective and efficient care. Learn more at essentialhospitals.org.
Contact:
Carl Graziano
cgraziano@essentialhospitals.org
202.585.0102