News Release
“We urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to swiftly reduce the hefty 2022 Medicare Part B premium increase ($21.60 per month), now that the agency has made its final decision to limit coverage of the controversial Alzheimer’s drug, Aduhelm, to patients in clinical trials. The spike in Medicare Part B premiums was partly based on the drug’s exorbitant cost (originally priced at $56,000 per year) and the potential expense of wider coverage. Today, the agency said it is still “reviewing” Part B premiums, under previous direction from HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. Medicare beneficiaries struggling to pay their bills need relief from this year’s premium increase as soon as possible. The Aduhelm controversy highlights the urgent need for Medicare to be able to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma. If the price of Aduhelm had been negotiated, it is unlikely that it would have impacted Medicare premiums so dramatically in the first place.” – Max Richtman, President and CEO, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare
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The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the Board of Directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.
Media Inquiries to:
Pamela Causey 202-216-8378Walter Gottlieb 202-276-9089