For patients with hepatitis C, the last year has brought great hope: New drugs that are highly effective with few side effects. But their high cost has led Medicaid officials in Pennsylvania and other states to put up barriers for patients, treating only the sickest ones and leaving many others to wait.
"This is an unprecedented approach we've had to take with these drugs," said Terri Cathers, pharmacy director for Pennsylvania's Office of Medical Assistance Programs. "We've not done this before for other treatments as long as I've been in the business."
The approach, she said, is a direct result of the cost, which can range up to $150,000 per patient.
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/health/20150104_New_drugs_offer_hope__barriers_for_hepatitis_C_patients.html#HAz2fKXJskLoLyFP.99
"This is an unprecedented approach we've had to take with these drugs," said Terri Cathers, pharmacy director for Pennsylvania's Office of Medical Assistance Programs. "We've not done this before for other treatments as long as I've been in the business."
The approach, she said, is a direct result of the cost, which can range up to $150,000 per patient.
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/health/20150104_New_drugs_offer_hope__barriers_for_hepatitis_C_patients.html#HAz2fKXJskLoLyFP.99
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