No-Cost Naloxone After Hospital Discharge for Opioid Overdose Risk
This act aims to provide no-cost access to opioid overdose reversal drugs, like naloxone, for at-risk individuals discharged from hospitals, emergency departments, or ambulatory surgical centers. These changes apply to Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE programs, meaning millions of citizens covered by these insurances will be able to receive this medication without additional charges, potentially saving lives in case of an overdose.
Key points
Free Naloxone: Individuals covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE who are at risk of opioid overdose will receive naloxone at no cost (no deductibles or co-pays) upon discharge from a hospital, emergency department, or ambulatory surgical center.
Availability in Medical Facilities: These drugs will be furnished by physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or other clinical personnel at the time of discharge, along with administration instructions.
Support for Hospitals and Pharmacies: The act mandates guidance for state boards of pharmacy, nursing, and medicine to enhance safe and effective hospital-based dispensing of naloxone, and guidance for hospitals on billing for these drugs.
Mandatory Medicaid Coverage: Starting January 1, 2026, state Medicaid plans will be required to cover preventive opioid overdose reversal drugs without any cost-sharing for patients.
Introduced
Citizen Poll