Federal data reveals Medicaid spending on prescription drugs rose 25% in 2014 and an additional 14% in 2015, marking a sharp increase. At present, Medicaid is required to cover any FDA-approved drugs, including drugs with similar purposes. Massachusetts is looking to bring the price back down by picking and choosing which drugs they are required to offer. They argue the new rule will give them missing leverage that will save money for Medicaid and patients alike. Critics argue it makes accessing drugs more difficult for low-income patients who may not have options for inexpensive alternatives. The proposal is currently being reviewed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which has an unpredictable record on approvals.
