On June 5, 2018, CHCACT partnered with the Rhode Island Health Center Association (RIHCA) to host the 340B Summit: Strategy and Compliance in Mystic, CT. The Summit was very well received; sixty individuals representing 96% of the Connecticut and Rhode Island health centers participated in the Summit, learning about the importance of the program and compliance strategies, as well as how to optimize it for the benefit of health center patients.Thanks to RIHCA for their partnership with this event!

Katie Henley, Senior Program Manager of Workforce Development

The 340B Drug Discount Program is a federal program that requires pharmaceutical companies to sell outpatient medications to health centers and other eligible entities at a discounted rate. The intent of the program is to help health centers, hospitals and other providers stretch Federal resources, to provide more comprehensive services, towards better health. Health centers pass the savings on to their patients through reduced drug prices and use any additional savings to support their ability to provide high quality health care services in their communities, as depicted in this helpful NACHC infographic.

For many health center patients, particularly those who are uninsured or who have certain commercial insurance, 340B may provide their only access to affordable prescription medications, which can be lifesaving. Access to reliable transportation can also present a major barrier for patients to access their medications. To reduce this barrier, some health centers provide pharmacy services on-site. Patients can go to the pharmacy right after their appointment with their primary care provider - all in the same building. Truly One-Stop Shopping! Other health centers have partnerships with local pharmacies to provide this program, usually within walking distance of the health center.

Congress is examining the 340B program and may restructure or reduce funds. You can help to protect the 340B program by Making the Case for why 340B is such an important program for health center patients.

Have a great week!

Katie