In 2023, prescription medicines purchased in the U.S. under the 340B Drug Discount Program reached $63 billion, a 23.4% increase from the previous year. This program requires drugmakers to offer discounts of about 25% to 50% (or even higher) off outpatient drugs to hospitals and clinics serving lower-income patients. Over 12,000 entities participate in the program, leading to a significant rise in sales since its inception over 30 years ago. The program has sparked a national debate over the cost of medicines, with sales reaching $38 billion in 2020, up from $16.2 billion in 2016, resulting in a conflict between pharmaceutical and hospital industries.
Source link
Sales from 340B drug discount program rose to $63 billion last year
