What Is the 340B Drug Pricing Program and How Does It Help?

By Lori Wright, CEO, Family Healthcare

Created by Congress in 1992 with no cost to taxpayers, the 340B drug pricing program is one of the most effective health care programs in America today. Drug manufacturers participating in Medicaid agree to provide outpatient medications to eligible entities, such as hospitals and community health centers, at significantly reduced prices. A crucial safety net for the patients of health centers that provide care for large numbers of low-income and underinsured populations, the program helps ensure access to lifesaving medications at affordable prices. Here in southwestern Utah, Family Healthcare and other organizations are qualified to extend 340B drug pricing to patients. Recent patient stories illustrate the value and importance of this critical program.

Sue* has type 2 diabetes. For years, she struggled to afford diabetes medications that were $2,000 per month. After becoming a Family Healthcare patient and qualifying for 340B drug pricing, her diabetes medications now cost $50 every three months.

Jodi*, a single mother who works in the service sector and needs a life sustaining prescription medication, was able to stop skipping meals to afford her medication when, as a Family Healthcare patient, she qualified for the 340B drug pricing program, reducing her monthly medication cost from $200 to $20.

Thanks to the 340B drug pricing program and the support from drug manufacturers, this help for the economically fragile and uninsured has a positive, life-saving impact for patients, their families, and the whole community.

On August 22, 2022, Family Healthcare will open the doors of a beautiful, new two-level clinic at 2276 E. Riverside Drive in Saint George, Utah. Patients will have access to affordable, high-quality medical, behavioral, and dental care in a comfortable and welcoming setting. They will be able to pick up their 340B prescription medications on site directly after their provider visit without having to make an extra stop on the way home. It doesn’t get better than this for patients who need a hand up and those of us who compassionately serve them.

* Names have been changed to protect anonymity.

About the Author

Lori Wright is the CEO of Family Healthcare. With more than twenty-five years of experience in community health, she is passionate about developing equity, where everyone is able to access high quality integrated primary health care. Family Healthcare’s mission is Making Lives Better, and as CEO, Lori’s efforts are focused on improving the overall health of patients and the communities that Family Healthcare serves.

Lori serves on a variety of committees across the state and throughout Washington and Iron Counties, including the St. George Area Chamber Board of Governors, Dixie Tech Pharmacy Tech Advisory Committee, and Association of Community Health Center’s Board. She also serves as co-chair of the AUCH Health Center Control Network. She is a Certified Medical Practice Executive by the American College of Medical Practice Executives and has received a BS in Community/Public Health and a Master of Public Administration from the Marriott School of Management.