Easier Access to Non-Opioid Pain Relief Drugs under Medicare Part D.
This law makes it easier for seniors and other Medicare Part D beneficiaries to access modern, non-opioid pain medications. Starting in 2025, qualifying non-opioid drugs will be cheaper because the deductible requirement will be waived and they will be placed on the lowest cost-sharing tier. The goal is to reduce opioid addiction by promoting safer alternatives for acute pain management.
Key points
No deductible required for qualifying non-opioid pain management drugs under Medicare Part D, effective January 1, 2025.
These drugs must be placed on the lowest possible cost-sharing tier, reducing patient out-of-pocket costs.
Plans are prohibited from requiring prior authorization or "step therapy" (using an opioid first) for these non-addictive alternatives.
Expired
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