CMS Touts First Negotiated Drug Prices, But Greater Impact Expected in Future Rounds

Medicare’s new drug pricing program will deliver discounts of up to 79% on the first ten drugs selected for negotiation, saving taxpayers an estimated $6 billion, says the White House. The new prices won’t be effective until 1 January 2026. The Inflation Reduction Act led to the price negotiations, which are expected to bring financial relief for Medicare beneficiaries, but are criticised by industry groups and drugmakers.