American College of Rheumatology Applauds Lower Negotiated Prices for Common Arthritis Drugs

ATLANTA – The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) praised the recent announcement from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that their initial drug pricing negotiations have reduced costs for select medications, including significantly lower prices for Enbrel and Stelara, which are frequently used to treat rheumatic diseases.

“This administration’s effort to make care more affordable and improve patient access to necessary medications is commendable,” said Deborah Dyett Desir, MD, president of the ACR. “The financial burden caused by skyrocketing drug prices all too often forces patients to skip or forgo treatments altogether, leading to further disease progression and permanent harm that impacts their quality of life. Lowering out-of-pocket medication expenses for Medicare beneficiaries will help to alleviate this risk. While there is still more to be done to reduce prescription drug costs, we are greatly encouraged by the important step this initiative takes in helping seniors afford the medications they need to manage their rheumatic conditions.”

 

Media Contact
Monica McDonald
mmcdonald@rheumatology.org

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The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) is an international medical society representing over 9,100 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy, and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases.