Could drug co-pays rise for Medicare?

A recent study by consulting firm Avalere Health LLC found that, for the 10 largest drug companies, premiums are expected to rise an average of 31 percent next year. Some insurers may even increase drug co-payments, according to an article in the Wall Street Journal. For example, for patients under Humana's PDP Enhanced plan, premiums are expected to rise 51 percent to an average of $39.56 per month. Average co-payments on drugs would also rise; expect a 75 percent increase (to around $7) for generic drugs, and a 60 percent increase (to around $40) for brand-name drugs. According to a spokesperson with Humana, the "prices reflect the experience we've seen over the past three years, and our expectations around what will most interest our members and potential members going forward."

For more:
- read this Wall Street Journal article

Related Articles:
Medicare overpaid for prescription drugs with generic versions
Specialty biotech drug prices rising
HHS: Medicare pharmacy pay lower than Medicaid