Eli Lilly introduces lower-cost generic version of its popular Humalog insulin
Eli Lilly is planning to release a generic version of its Humalog insulin pen that’s half the price of the original.
Insulin Lispro’s list price will be $137.35 per vial and $265.20 for a set of five pens. Drugmakers, including Lilly, have come under fire for insulin prices.
Lilly said it is already producing the drug and is working with its supply chain partners to make the authorized generic available as soon as possible. (FiercePharma)
Missouri Medicaid tweak could ease access to care for people recently released from jail
Two new bills in the Missouri legislature are looking to allow suspended Medicaid coverage for people who are in jail or prison, which could make their transition out of incarceration smoother.
At present, people on Medicaid in the state are booted from the program if they go to jail. In a suspended approach, coverage is not extended to people in jail but they are re-enrolled immediately after release, eliminating care gaps and lessening administrative burden, advocates of the proposal say.
Adjusting the Medicaid program to ease barriers for this population is especially crucial, as these beneficiaries are more likely to have mental health conditions, chronic illnesses or drug addiction, advocates say.
“Without that continuous care, we see higher risks of people overdosing and other adverse health outcomes,” said Mikel Witter of the St. Louis Integrated Health Network. (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
Georgia legislators put bullseye on surprise billing—but plans may hit snag
Georgia state legislators have introduced two bills so far this year that take aim at balance, or surprise, billing—but neither has garnered a chamber vote.
Bills in the state typically need to pass a chamber vote by this Thursday to have a chance to pass within the year.
Both bills would require that companies provide pricing and network information to consumers. (The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)