GPhA lauds Senate passage of Medicare bill

ARLINGTON, Va. On Wednesday, the Senate finally approved the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, (H.R. 6331). In response to the approval, Generic Pharmaceutical Association president and chief executive officer Kathleen Jaeger released a statement thanking the Senate for passing the legislation, especially Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus, D-Mont.

In relation to the details of the act Jaeger noted that, “By delaying the average manufacturer price provisions, this legislation will ensure that patients struggling with their prescription drug costs will not be harmed in the process. Providing Congress with more time to create a fair and rational reimbursement system for retail pharmacies participating in the Medicaid program is critical to ensuring patients have the medicines they need.”

Jaeger also commented the GPhA was also “pleased” that the legislation included eprescribing as it will save both lives and money.