Lower Costs, More Cures Act of 2019

To provide for certain reforms with respect to the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act, and for other purposes. 1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Lower Costs, More Cures Act of 2019 2. Table of contents The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title. Sec. 2. Table of contents. TITLE I—Medicare Parts B and D Subtitle A—Medicare Part B Provisions Sec. 101. Improvements to Medicare site-of-service transparency. Sec. 102. Requiring manufacturers of certain single-dose container or single-use package drugs payable under part B of the Medicare program to provide refunds with respect to discarded amounts of such drugs. Sec. 103. Providing for variation in payment for certain drugs covered under part B of the Medicare program. Sec. 104. Establishment of maximum add-on payment for drugs and biologicals. Sec. 105. Treatment of drug administration services furnished by certain excepted off-campus outpatient departments of a provider. Sec. 106. Payment for biosimilar biological products during initial period. Sec. 107. Education on biological and biosimilar products. Sec. 108. GAO study and report on average sales price. Subtitle B—Medicare Part D Provisions Sec. 111. Medicare part D benefit redesign. Sec. 112. Transitional coverage and retroactive Medicare part D coverage for certain low-income beneficiaries. Sec. 113. Allowing the offering of additional prescription drug plans under Medicare part D. Sec. 114. Allowing certain enrollees of prescription drug plans and MA–PD plans under the Medicare program to spread out cost-sharing under certain circumstances. Sec. 115. Establishing a monthly cap on beneficiary incurred costs for insulin products and supplies under a prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan. Sec. 116. Growth rate of Medicare part D out-of-pocket cost threshold. Sec. 117. Requiring prescription drug plan sponsors to include real-time benefit information as part of such sponsor’s electronic prescription program under the Medicare program. Sec. 118. Requiring prescription drug plans and MA–PD plans to report potential fraud, waste, and abuse to the Secretary of HHS. Sec. 119. Establishment of pharmacy quality measures under Medicare part D. TITLE II—Drug Price Transparency Sec. 201. Reporting on explanation for drug price increases. Sec. 202. Public disclosure of drug discounts. Sec. 203. Requiring certain manufacturers to report drug pricing information with respect to drugs under the Medicare program. Sec. 204. Making prescription drug marketing sample information reported by manufacturers available to certain individuals and entities. Sec. 205. Providing the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission and Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission with access to certain drug payment information, including certain rebate information. Sec. 206. Sense of the Senate regarding the need to expand commercially available drug pricing comparison platforms. TITLE III—Revenue Provisions Sec. 301. Permanent extension of reduction in medical expense deduction floor. Sec. 302. Safe harbor for high deductible health plans without deductible for insulin. Sec. 303. Inclusion of certain over-the-counter medical products as qualified medical expenses. TITLE IV—Miscellaneous Sec. 401. Improving coordination between the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Sec. 402. Patient consultation in Medicare national and local coverage determinations in order to mitigate barriers to inclusion of such perspectives. Sec. 403. MedPAC report on shifting coverage of certain Medicare part B drugs to Medicare part D. Sec. 404. Requirement that direct-to-consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products include truthful and non-misleading pricing information. Sec. 405. Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator at the Office of the United States Trade Representative. I Medicare Parts B and D A Medicare Part B Provisions 101. Improvements to Medicare site-of-service transparency Section 1834(t) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395m(t) (1) in paragraph (1)— (A) in the heading, by striking In general Site payment (B) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)— (i) by striking or to , to (ii) by inserting , or to a physician for services furnished in a physician’s office surgical center under this title (iii) by inserting (or 2021 with respect to a physician for services furnished in a physician’s office) 2018 (C) in subparagraph (A)— (i) by striking and the , the (ii) by inserting , and the physician fee schedule under section 1848 (with respect to the practice expense component of such payment amount) such section (2) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as paragraphs (3) through (5), respectively; and (3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph: (2) Physician payment Beginning in 2021, the Secretary shall expand the information included on the Internet website described in paragraph (1) to include— (A) the amount paid to a physician under section 1848 for an item or service for the settings described in paragraph (1); and (B) the estimated amount of beneficiary liability applicable to the item or service. . 102. Requiring manufacturers of certain single-dose container or single-use package drugs payable under part B of the Medicare program to provide refunds with respect to discarded amounts of such drugs Section 1847A of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395–3a (h) Refund for certain discarded single-Dose container or single-Use package drugs (1) Secretarial provision of information (A) In general For each calendar quarter beginning on or after July 1, 2021, the Secretary shall, with respect to a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug (as defined in paragraph (8)), report to each manufacturer (as defined in subsection (c)(6)(A)) of such refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug the following for the calendar quarter: (i) Subject to subparagraph (C), information on the total number of units of the billing and payment code of such drug, if any, that were discarded during such quarter, as determined using a mechanism such as the JW modifier used as of the date of enactment of this subsection (or any such successor modifier that includes such data as determined appropriate by the Secretary). (ii) The refund amount that the manufacturer is liable for pursuant to paragraph (3). (B) Determination of discarded amounts For purposes of subparagraph (A)(i), with respect to a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug furnished during a quarter, the amount of such drug that was discarded shall be determined based on the amount of such drug that was unused and discarded for each drug on the date of service. (C) Exclusion of units of packaged drugs The total number of units of the billing and payment code of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug of a manufacturer furnished during a calendar quarter for purposes of subparagraph (A)(i), and the determination of the estimated total allowed charges for the drug in the quarter for purposes of paragraph (3)(A)(ii), shall not include such units that are packaged into the payment amount for an item or service and are not separately payable. (2) Manufacturer requirement For each calendar quarter beginning on or after July 1, 2021, the manufacturer of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug shall, for such drug, provide to the Secretary a refund that is equal to the amount specified in paragraph (3) for such drug for such quarter. (3) Refund amount (A) In general The amount of the refund specified in this paragraph is, with respect to a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug of a manufacturer assigned to a billing and payment code for a calendar quarter beginning on or after July 1, 2021, an amount equal to the estimated amount (if any) by which— (i) the product of— (I) the total number of units of the billing and payment code for such drug that were discarded during such quarter (as determined under paragraph (1)); and (II) (aa) in the case of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug that is a single source drug or biological, the amount determined for such drug under subsection (b)(4); or (bb) in the case of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug that is a biosimilar biological product, the average sales price determined under subsection (b)(8)(A); exceeds (ii) an amount equal to the applicable percentage (as defined in subparagraph (B)) of the estimated total allowed charges for such drug during the quarter. (B) Applicable percentage defined (i) In general For purposes of subparagraph (A)(ii), the term applicable percentage (I) subject to subclause (II), 10 percent; and (II) if applicable, in the case of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug described in clause (ii), a percentage specified by the Secretary pursuant to such clause. (ii) Treatment of drugs that have unique circumstances In the case of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug that has unique circumstances involving similar loss of product as that described in paragraph (8)(B), the Secretary, through notice and comment rulemaking, may increase the applicable percentage otherwise applicable under clause (i)(I) as determined appropriate by the Secretary. (4) Frequency Amounts required to be refunded pursuant to paragraph (2) shall be paid in regular intervals (as determined appropriate by the Secretary). (5) Refund deposits Amounts paid as refunds pursuant to paragraph (2) shall be deposited into the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund established under section 1841. (6) Enforcement (A) Audits (i) Manufacturer audits Each manufacturer of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug that is required to provide a refund under this subsection shall be subject to periodic audit with respect to such drug and such refunds by the Secretary. (ii) Provider audits The Secretary shall conduct periodic audits of claims submitted under this part with respect to refundable single-dose container or single-use package drugs in accordance with the authority under section 1833(e) to ensure compliance with the requirements applicable under this subsection. (B) Civil money penalty (i) In general The Secretary shall impose a civil money penalty on a manufacturer of a refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug who has failed to comply with the requirement under paragraph (2) for such drug for a calendar quarter in an amount equal to the sum of— (I) the amount that the manufacturer would have paid under such paragraph with respect to such drug for such quarter; and (II) 25 percent of such amount. (ii) Application The provisions of section 1128A (other than subsections (a) and (b)) shall apply to a civil money penalty under this subparagraph in the same manner as such provisions apply to a penalty or proceeding under section 1128A(a). (7) Implementation The Secretary shall implement this subsection through notice and comment rulemaking. (8) Definition of refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug (A) In general Except as provided in subparagraph (B), in this subsection, the term refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug (B) Exclusions The term refundable single-dose container or single-use package drug (i) a drug or biological that is either a radiopharmaceutical or an imaging agent; (ii) a drug or biological for which dosage and administration instructions approved by the Commissioner of Food and Drugs require filtration during the drug preparation process, prior to dilution and administration, and require that any unused portion of such drug after the filtration process be discarded after the completion of such filtration process; or (iii) a drug or biological approved by the Food and Drug Administration on or after the date of enactment of this subsection and with respect to which payment has been made under this part for less than 18 months. . 103. Providing for variation in payment for certain drugs covered under part B of the Medicare program (a) In general Section 1847A(b) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3a(b)) is amended— (1) in paragraph (1)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting after or 106 percent (or, for a multiple source drug (other than autologous cellular immunotherapy) furnished on or after January 1, 2021, the applicable percent specified in paragraph (9)(A) for the drug and quarter involved) (B) in subparagraph (B) of paragraph (1), by inserting after 106 percent (or, for a single source drug or biological (other than autologous cellular immunotherapy) furnished on or after January 1, 2021, the applicable percent specified in paragraph (9)(A) for the drug or biological and quarter involved) (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (9) Application of variable percentages based on percentile ranking of per beneficiary allowed charges (A) Applicable percent to be applied (i) In general Subject to clause (ii), with respect to a drug or biological furnished in a calendar quarter beginning on or after January 1, 2021, if the Secretary determines that the percentile rank of a drug or biological under subparagraph (B)(i)(III), with respect to per beneficiary allowed charges for all such drugs or biologicals, is— (I) at least equal to the 85th percentile, the applicable percent for the drug for such quarter under this subparagraph is 104 percent; (II) at least equal to the 70th percentile, but less than the 85th percentile, such applicable percent is 106 percent; (III) at least equal to the 50th percentile, but less than the 70th percentile, such applicable percent is 108 percent; or (IV) less than the 50th percentile, such applicable percent is 110 percent. (ii) Cases where data not sufficiently available to compute per beneficiary allowed charges Subject to clause (iii), in the case of a drug or biological furnished for which the amount of payment is determined under subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1) and not under subsection (c)(4), for calendar quarters during a period in which data are not sufficiently available to compute a per beneficiary allowed charges for the drug or biological, the applicable percent is 106 percent. (B) Determination of percentile rank of per beneficiary allowed charges of drugs (i) In general With respect to a calendar quarter beginning on or after January 1, 2021, for drugs and biologicals for which the amount of payment is determined under subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1), except for drugs or biologicals for which data are not sufficiently available, the Secretary shall— (I) compute the per beneficiary allowed charges (as defined in subparagraph (C) (II) adjust such per beneficiary allowed charges for the quarter, to the extent provided under subparagraph (D); and (III) arrange such adjusted per beneficiary allowed charges for all such drugs or biologicals from high to low and rank such drugs or biologicals by percentile of such per beneficiary allowed charges. (ii) Frequency The Secretary shall make the computations under clause (i)(I) every 6 months (or, if necessary, as determined by the Secretary, every 9 or 12 months) and such computations shall apply to succeeding calendar quarters until a new computation has been made. (iii) Applicable data period For purposes of this paragraph, the term applicable data period clause (i) (C) Per beneficiary allowed charges defined In this paragraph, the term per beneficiary allowed charges (i) the allowed charges for the drug or biological for which payment is so made for the applicable data period, as estimated by the Secretary; divided by (ii) the number of individuals for whom any payment for the drug or biological was made under paragraph (1) for the applicable data period, as estimated by the Secretary. (D) Adjustment to reflect changes in average sales price In applying this paragraph for a particular calendar quarter, the Secretary shall adjust the per beneficiary allowed charges for a drug or biological by multiplying such per beneficiary allowed charges under subparagraph (C) for the applicable data period by the ratio of— (i) the average sales price for the drug or biological for the most recent calendar quarter used under subsection (c)(5)(B); to (ii) the average sales price for the drug or biological for the calendar quarter (or the weighted average for the quarters involved) included in the applicable data period. . (b) Application of judicial review provisions Section 1847A(g) of the Social Security Act is amended— (1) by striking and (2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (5) and inserting ; and (3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (6) the determination of per beneficiary allowed charges of drugs or biologicals and ranking of such charges under subsection (b)(9). . 104. Establishment of maximum add-on payment for drugs and biologicals (a) In general Section 1847A of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–3a (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking paragraph (7) paragraphs (7) and (10) (B) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (10) Maximum add-on payment amount (A) In general In determining the payment amount under the provisions of subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) of paragraph (1) of this subsection, subsection (c)(4)(A)(ii), or subsection (d)(3)(C) for a drug or biological furnished on or after January 1, 2021, if the applicable add-on payment (as defined in subparagraph (B)) for each drug or biological on a claim for a date of service exceeds the maximum add-on payment amount specified under subparagraph (C) for the drug or biological, then the payment amount otherwise determined for the drug or biological under those provisions, as applicable, shall be reduced by the amount of such excess. (B) Applicable add-on payment defined In this paragraph, the term applicable add-on payment (i) In the case of a multiple source drug, an amount equal to the difference between— (I) the amount that would otherwise be applied under paragraph (1)(A); and (II) the amount that would be applied under such paragraph if 100 percent (ii) In the case of a single source drug or biological, an amount equal to the difference between— (I) the amount that would otherwise be applied under paragraph (1)(B); and (II) the amount that would be applied under such paragraph if 100 percent (iii) In the case of a biosimilar biological product, the amount otherwise determined under paragraph (8)(B). (iv) In the case of a drug or biological during the initial period described in subsection (c)(4)(A), an amount equal to the difference between— (I) the amount that would otherwise be applied under subsection (c)(4)(A)(ii); and (II) the amount that would be applied under such subsection if 100 percent (aa) 103 percent (bb) any percent in excess of 100 percent applied under subclause (II) of such subsection. (v) In the case of a drug or biological to which subsection (d)(3)(C) applies, an amount equal to the difference between— (I) the amount that would otherwise be applied under such subsection; and (II) the amount that would be applied under such subsection if 100 percent (aa) any percent in excess of 100 percent applied under clause (i) of such subsection; or (bb) 103 percent (C) Maximum add-on payment amount specified For purposes of subparagraph (A), the maximum add-on payment amount specified in this subparagraph is— (i) with respect to a drug or biological (other than autologous or allogeneric cellular immunotherapy)— (I) for each of 2021 through 2028, $1,000; and (II) for a subsequent year, the amount specified in this subparagraph for the preceding year increased by the percentage increase in the consumer price index for all urban consumers (all items; United States city average) for the 12-month period ending with June of the previous year; or (ii) with respect to a drug or biological consisting of autologous or allogeneric cellular immunotherapy— (I) for each of 2021 through 2028, $2,000; and (II) for a subsequent year, the amount specified in this subparagraph for the preceding year increased by the percentage increase in the consumer price index for all urban consumers (all items; United States city average) for the 12-month period ending with June of the previous year. Any amount determined under this subparagraph that is not a multiple of $10 shall be rounded to the nearest multiple of $10. ; and (2) in subsection (c)(4)(A)(ii), by striking in the case subject to subsection (b)(10), in the case (b) Conforming amendments relating to separately payable drugs (1) OPPS Section 1833(t)(14) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395l(t)(14) (A) in subparagraph (A)(iii)(II), by inserting , subject to subparagraph (I) are not available (B) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (I) Application of maximum add-on payment for separately payable drugs and biologicals In establishing the amount of payment under subparagraph (A) for a specified covered outpatient drug that is furnished as part of a covered OPD service (or group of services) on or after January 1, 2021, if such payment is determined based on the average price for the year established under section 1847A pursuant to clause (iii)(II) of such subparagraph, the provisions of subsection (b)(10) of section 1847A shall apply to the amount of payment so established in the same manner as such provisions apply to the amount of payment under section 1847A. . (2) ASC Section 1833(i)(2)(D) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395l(i)(2)(D) (A) by moving clause (v) 6 ems to the left; (B) by redesignating clause (vi) as clause (vii); and (C) by inserting after clause (v) the following new clause: (vi) If there is a separate payment under the system described in clause (i) for a drug or biological furnished on or after January 1, 2021, the provisions of subsection (t)(14)(I) shall apply to the establishment of the amount of payment for the drug or biological under such system in the same manner in which such provisions apply to the establishment of the amount of payment under subsection (t)(14)(A). . 105. Treatment of drug administration services furnished by certain excepted off-campus outpatient departments of a provider Section 1833(t)(16) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395l(t)(16) (G) Special payment rule for drug administration services furnished by an excepted department of a provider (i) In general In the case of a covered OPD service that is a drug administration service (as defined by the Secretary) furnished by a department of a provider described in clause (ii) or (iv) of paragraph (21)(B), the payment amount for such service furnished on or after January 1, 2021, shall be the same payment amount (as determined in paragraph (21)(C)) that would apply if the drug administration service was furnished by an off-campus outpatient department of a provider (as defined in paragraph (21)(B)). (ii) Application without regard to budget neutrality The reductions made under this subparagraph— (I) shall not be considered an adjustment under paragraph (2)(E); and (II) shall not be implemented in a budget neutral manner. . 106. Payment for biosimilar biological products during initial period Section 1847A(c)(4) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3a(c)(4)) is amended— (1) in each of subparagraphs (A) and (B), by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as subclauses (I) and (II), respectively, and moving such subclauses 2 ems to the right; (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as clauses (i) and (ii) and moving such clauses 2 ems to the right; (3) by striking unavailable unavailable (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), in the case ; and (4) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (B) Limitation on payment amount for biosimilar biological products during initial period In the case of a biosimilar biological product furnished on or after July 1, 2020, in lieu of applying subparagraph (A) during the initial period described in such subparagraph with respect to the biosimilar biological product, the amount payable under this section for the biosimilar biological product is the lesser of the following: (i) The amount determined under clause (ii) of such subparagraph for the biosimilar biological product. (ii) The amount determined under subsection (b)(1)(B) for the reference biological product. . 107. Education on biological and biosimilar products (a) In General The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall advance education and awareness among health care providers regarding biological products, including biosimilar biological products and interchangeable biosimilar biological products, as appropriate, including by developing or improving continuing education programs that advance the education of such providers on the prescribing of, and relevant clinical considerations with respect to, biological products, including biosimilar biological products and interchangeable biosimilar biological products. (b) Application under the Medicare Merit-Based Incentive Payment System Section 1848(q)(5)(C) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–4(q)(5)(C) (iv) Clinical medical education program on biosimilar biological products Completion of a clinical medical education program developed or improved under section 107(a) of the Lower Costs, More Cures Act of 2019 . 108. GAO study and report on average sales price (a) Study (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States (in this section referred to as the Comptroller General (2) Applicable drugs defined In this section, the term applicable drugs (A) for which reimbursement under such part B is based on the average sales price of the drug or biological; and (B) that account for the largest percentage of total spending on drugs and biologicals under such part B (as determined by the Comptroller General, but in no case less than 25 drugs or biologicals). (3) Requirements The study under paragraph (1) shall include an analysis of the following: (A) The extent to which each applicable drug is paid for— (i) under such part B for Medicare beneficiaries; or (ii) by private payers in the commercial market. (B) Any change in Medicare spending or Medicare beneficiary cost-sharing that would occur if the average sales price of an applicable drug was based solely on payments by private payers in the commercial market. (C) The extent to which drug manufacturers provide rebates, discounts, or other price concessions to private payers in the commercial market for applicable drugs, which the manufacturer includes in its average sales price calculation, for— (i) formulary placement; (ii) utilization management considerations; or (iii) other purposes. (D) Barriers to drug manufacturers providing such price concessions for applicable drugs. (E) Other areas determined appropriate by the Comptroller General. (b) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to Congress a report on the study conducted under subsection (a), together with recommendations for such legislation and administrative action as the Secretary determines appropriate. B Medicare Part D Provisions 111. Medicare part D benefit redesign (a) Benefit structure redesign Section 1860D–2(b) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102(b) (1) in paragraph (2)— (A) in subparagraph (A)— (i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting for a year preceding 2022 and for costs above the annual deductible specified in paragraph (1) and up to the annual out-of-pocket threshold specified in paragraph (4)(B) for 2022 and each subsequent year paragraph (3) (ii) in clause (i), by inserting after 25 percent (or, for 2022 and each subsequent year, 15 percent) (iii) in clause (ii), by inserting (or, for 2022 and each subsequent year, 15 percent) 25 percent (B) in subparagraph (C)— (i) in clause (i), in the matter preceding subclause (I), by inserting for a year preceding 2022, paragraph (4), (ii) in clause (ii)(III), by striking and each subsequent year and 2021 (C) in subparagraph (D)— (i) in clause (i)— (I) in the matter preceding subclause (I), by inserting for a year preceding 2022, paragraph (4), (II) in subclause (I)(bb), by striking a year after 2018 each of years 2018 through 2021 (ii) in clause (ii)(V), by striking 2019 and each subsequent year each of years 2019 through 2021 (2) in paragraph (3)(A)— (A) in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting for a year preceding 2022, and (4), (B) in clause (ii), by striking for a subsequent year for each of years 2007 through 2021 (3) in paragraph (4)— (A) in subparagraph (A)— (i) in clause (i)— (I) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) as items (aa) and (bb), respectively, and indenting appropriately; (II) in the matter preceding item (aa), as redesignated by subclause (I), by striking is equal to the greater of— is equal to— (I) for a year preceding 2022, the greater of— ; (III) by striking the period at the end of item (bb), as redesignated by subclause (I), and inserting ; and (IV) by adding at the end the following: (II) for 2022 and each succeeding year, $0. ; and (ii) in clause (ii)— (I) by striking clause (i)(I) clause (i)(I)(aa) (II) by adding at the end the following new sentence: The Secretary shall continue to calculate the dollar amounts specified in clause (i)(I)(aa), including with the adjustment under this clause, after 2021 for purposes of section 1860D–14(a)(1)(D)(iii). (B) in subparagraph (B)— (i) in clause (i)— (I) in subclause (V), by striking or (II) in subclause (VI)— (aa) by striking for a subsequent year for 2021 (bb) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (III) by adding at the end the following new subclauses: (VII) for 2022, is equal to $3,100; or (VIII) for a subsequent year, is equal to the amount specified in this subparagraph for the previous year, increased by the annual percentage increase described in paragraph (6) for the year involved. ; and (ii) in clause (ii), by striking clause (i)(II) clause (i) (C) in subparagraph (C)(i), by striking and for amounts and for a year preceding 2022 for amounts (D) in subparagraph (E), by striking In applying For each of 2011 through 2021, in applying (b) Decreasing reinsurance payment amount Section 1860D–15(b)(1) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–115(b)(1) (1) by striking equal to 80 percent equal to— (A) for a year preceding 2022, 80 percent ; (2) in subparagraph (A), as added by paragraph (1), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (3) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (B) for 2022 and each subsequent year, the sum of— (i) an amount equal to 20 percent of the allowable reinsurance costs (as specified in paragraph (2)) attributable to that portion of gross covered prescription drug costs as specified in paragraph (3) incurred in the coverage year after such individual has incurred costs that exceed the annual out-of-pocket threshold specified in section 1860D–2(b)(4)(B) with respect to applicable drugs (as defined in section 1860D–14B(g)(2)); and (ii) an amount equal to 30 percent of the allowable reinsurance costs (as specified in paragraph (2)) attributable to that portion of gross covered prescription drug costs as specified in paragraph (3) incurred in the coverage year after such individual has incurred costs that exceed the annual out-of-pocket threshold specified in section 1860D–2(b)(4)(B) with respect to covered part D drugs that are not applicable drugs (as so defined). . (c) Manufacturer discount program (1) In general Part D of title XVIII of the Social Security Act is amended by inserting after section 1860D–14A ( 42 U.S.C. 1495w–114 1860D–14B. Manufacturer discount program (a) Establishment The Secretary shall establish a manufacturer discount program (in this section referred to as the program (b) Terms of agreement (1) In general (A) Agreement An agreement under this section shall require the manufacturer to provide applicable beneficiaries access to discounted prices for applicable drugs of the manufacturer that are dispensed on or after January 1, 2022. (B) Provision of discounted prices at the point-of-sale The discounted prices described in subparagraph (A) shall be provided to the applicable beneficiary at the pharmacy or by the mail order service at the point-of-sale of an applicable drug. (2) Provision of appropriate data Each manufacturer with an agreement in effect under this section shall collect and have available appropriate data, as determined by the Secretary, to ensure that it can demonstrate to the Secretary compliance with the requirements under the program. (3) Compliance with requirements for administration of program Each manufacturer with an agreement in effect under this section shall comply with requirements imposed by the Secretary or a third party with a contract under subsection (d)(3), as applicable, for purposes of administering the program, including any determination under subparagraph (A) of subsection (c)(1) or procedures established under such subsection (c)(1). (4) Length of agreement (A) In general An agreement under this section shall be effective for an initial period of not less than 12 months and shall be automatically renewed for a period of not less than 1 year unless terminated under subparagraph (B). (B) Termination (i) By the Secretary The Secretary may provide for termination of an agreement under this section for a knowing and willful violation of the requirements of the agreement or other good cause shown. Such termination shall not be effective earlier than 30 days after the date of notice to the manufacturer of such termination. The Secretary shall provide, upon request, a manufacturer with a hearing concerning such a termination, and such hearing shall take place prior to the effective date of the termination with sufficient time for such effective date to be repealed if the Secretary determines appropriate. (ii) By a manufacturer A manufacturer may terminate an agreement under this section for any reason. Any such termination shall be effective, with respect to a plan year— (I) if the termination occurs before January 30 of a plan year, as of the day after the end of the plan year; and (II) if the termination occurs on or after January 30 of a plan year, as of the day after the end of the succeeding plan year. (iii) Effectiveness of termination Any termination under this subparagraph shall not affect discounts for applicable drugs of the manufacturer that are due under the agreement before the effective date of its termination. (iv) Notice to third party The Secretary shall provide notice of such termination to a third party with a contract under subsection (d)(3) within not less than 30 days before the effective date of such termination. (5) Effective date of agreement An agreement under this section shall take effect on a date determined appropriate by the Secretary, which may be at the start of a calendar quarter. (c) Duties described The duties described in this subsection are the following: (1) Administration of program Administering the program, including— (A) the determination of the amount of the discounted price of an applicable drug of a manufacturer; (B) the establishment of procedures under which discounted prices are provided to applicable beneficiaries at pharmacies or by mail order service at the point-of-sale of an applicable drug; (C) the establishment of procedures to ensure that, not later than the applicable number of calendar days after the dispensing of an applicable drug by a pharmacy or mail order service, the pharmacy or mail order service is reimbursed for an amount equal to the difference between— (i) the negotiated price of the applicable drug; and (ii) the discounted price of the applicable drug; (D) the establishment of procedures to ensure that the discounted price for an applicable drug under this section is applied before any coverage or financial assistance under other health benefit plans or programs that provide coverage or financial assistance for the purchase or provision of prescription drug coverage on behalf of applicable beneficiaries as the Secretary may specify; and (E) providing a reasonable dispute resolution mechanism to resolve disagreements between manufacturers, applicable beneficiaries, and the third party with a contract under subsection (d)(3). (2) Monitoring compliance (A) In general The Secretary shall monitor compliance by a manufacturer with the terms of an agreement under this section. (B) Notification If a third party with a contract under subsection (d)(3) determines that the manufacturer is not in compliance with such agreement, the third party shall notify the Secretary of such noncompliance for appropriate enforcement under subsection (e). (3) Collection of data from prescription drug plans and MA–PD plans The Secretary may collect appropriate data from prescription drug plans and MA–PD plans in a timeframe that allows for discounted prices to be provided for applicable drugs under this section. (d) Administration (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall provide for the implementation of this section, including the performance of the duties described in subsection (c). (2) Limitation In providing for the implementation of this section, the Secretary shall not receive or distribute any funds of a manufacturer under the program. (3) Contract with third parties The Secretary shall enter into a contract with one or more third parties to administer the requirements established by the Secretary in order to carry out this section. At a minimum, the contract with a third party under the preceding sentence shall require that the third party— (A) receive and transmit information between the Secretary, manufacturers, and other individuals or entities the Secretary determines appropriate; (B) receive, distribute, or facilitate the distribution of funds of manufacturers to appropriate individuals or entities in order to meet the obligations of manufacturers under agreements under this section; (C) provide adequate and timely information to manufacturers, consistent with the agreement with the manufacturer under this section, as necessary for the manufacturer to fulfill its obligations under this section; and (D) permit manufacturers to conduct periodic audits, directly or through contracts, of the data and information used by the third party to determine discounts for applicable drugs of the manufacturer under the program. (4) Performance requirements The Secretary shall establish performance requirements for a third party with a contract under paragraph (3) and safeguards to protect the independence and integrity of the activities carried out by the third party under the program under this section. (5) Administration Chapter 35 (e) Enforcement (1) Audits Each manufacturer with an agreement in effect under this section shall be subject to periodic audit by the Secretary. (2) Civil money penalty (A) In general The Secretary shall impose a civil money penalty on a manufacturer that fails to provide applicable beneficiaries discounts for applicable drugs of the manufacturer in accordance with such agreement for each such failure in an amount the Secretary determines is commensurate with the sum of— (i) the amount that the manufacturer would have paid with respect to such discounts under the agreement, which will then be used to pay the discounts which the manufacturer had failed to provide; and (ii) 25 percent of such amount. (B) Application The provisions of section 1128A (other than subsections (a) and (b)) shall apply to a civil money penalty under this paragraph in the same manner as such provisions apply to a penalty or proceeding under section 1128A(a). (f) Clarification regarding availability of other covered part D drugs Nothing in this section shall prevent an applicable beneficiary from purchasing a covered part D drug that is not on the formulary of the prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan that the applicable beneficiary is enrolled in. (g) Definitions In this section: (1) Applicable beneficiary The term applicable beneficiary (A) is enrolled in a prescription drug plan or an MA–PD plan; (B) is not enrolled in a qualified retiree prescription drug plan; and (C) has incurred costs for covered part D drugs in the year that are equal to or exceed the annual deductible specified in section 1860D–2(b)(1) for such year. (2) Applicable drug The term applicable drug (A) approved under a new drug application under section 505(c) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or, in the case of a biologic product, licensed under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act (including a product licensed under subsection (k) of such section); and (B) (i) if the PDP sponsor of the prescription drug plan or the MA organization offering the MA–PD plan uses a formulary, which is on the formulary of the prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan that the applicable beneficiary is enrolled in; (ii) if the PDP sponsor of the prescription drug plan or the MA organization offering the MA–PD plan does not use a formulary, for which benefits are available under the prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan that the applicable beneficiary is enrolled in; or (iii) is provided through an exception or appeal. (3) Applicable number of calendar days The term applicable number of calendar days (A) with respect to claims for reimbursement submitted electronically, 14 days; and (B) with respect to claims for reimbursement submitted otherwise, 30 days. (4) Discounted price (A) In general The term discounted price (B) Clarification Nothing in this section shall be construed as affecting the responsibility of an applicable beneficiary for payment of a dispensing fee for an applicable drug. (C) Special case for claims spanning deductible In the case where the entire amount of the negotiated price of an individual claim for an applicable drug with respect to an applicable beneficiary does not fall at or above the annual deductible specified in section 1860D–2(b)(1) for the year, the manufacturer of the applicable drug shall provide the discounted price under this section on only the portion of the negotiated price of the applicable drug that falls at or above such annual deductible. (5) Manufacturer The term manufacturer (6) Negotiated price The term negotiated price (7) Qualified retiree prescription drug plan The term qualified retiree prescription drug plan . (2) Sunset of Medicare coverage gap discount program Section 1860D–14A of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395–114a (A) in subsection (a), in the first sentence, by striking The Secretary Subject to subsection (h), the Secretary (B) by adding at the end the following new subsection: (h) Sunset of program (1) In general The program shall not apply to applicable drugs dispensed on or after January 1, 2022, and, subject to paragraph (2), agreements under this section shall be terminated as of such date. (2) Continued application for applicable drugs dispensed prior to sunset The provisions of this section (including all responsibilities and duties) shall continue to apply after January 1, 2022, with respect to applicable drugs dispensed prior to such date. . (3) Inclusion of actuarial value of manufacturer discounts in bids Section 1860D–11 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–111 (A) in subsection (b)(2)(C)(iii)— (i) by striking assumptions regarding the reinsurance assumptions regarding— (I) the reinsurance ; and (ii) by adding at the end the following: (II) for 2022 and each subsequent year, the manufacturer discounts provided under section 1860D– 14B subtracted from the actuarial value to produce such bid; and ; and (B) in subsection (c)(1)(C)— (i) by striking an actuarial valuation of the reinsurance an actuarial valuation of— (i) the reinsurance ; (ii) in clause (i), as added by clause (i) of this subparagraph, by adding and (iii) by adding at the end the following: (ii) for 2022 and each subsequent year, the manufacturer discounts provided under section 1860D–14B; . (4) Clarification regarding exclusion of manufacturer discounts from TrOOP Section 1860D–2(b)(4) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102(b)(4) (A) in subparagraph (C), by inserting and subject to subparagraph (F) subparagraph (E) (B) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (F) Clarification regarding exclusion of manufacturer discounts In applying subparagraph (A), incurred costs shall not include any manufacturer discounts provided under section 1860D–14B. . (d) Determination of allowable reinsurance costs Section 1860D–15(b) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–115(b) (1) in paragraph (2)— (A) by striking Costs.— Costs.— (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), for purposes ; and (B) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (B) Inclusion of manufacturer discounts on applicable drugs For purposes of applying subparagraph (A), the term allowable reinsurance costs ; and (2) in paragraph (3)— (A) in the first sentence, by striking For purposes Subject to paragraph (2)(B), for purposes (B) in the second sentence, by inserting or, in the case of an applicable drug, by a manufacturer by the individual or under the plan (e) Updating risk adjustment methodologies To account for part D modernization redesign Section 1860D–15(c) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–115(c) (3) Updating risk adjustment methodologies to account for part D modernization redesign The Secretary shall update the risk adjustment model used to adjust bid amounts pursuant to this subsection as appropriate to take into account changes in benefits under this part pursuant to the amendments made by section 121 of the Lower Costs, More Cures Act of 2019. . (f) Conditions for coverage of drugs under this part Section 1860D–43 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–153 (1) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (2), by striking and (B) in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (C) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs: (4) participate in the manufacturer discount program under section 1860D–14B; (5) have entered into and have in effect an agreement described in subsection (b) of such section 1860D–14B with the Secretary; and (6) have entered into and have in effect, under terms and conditions specified by the Secretary, a contract with a third party that the Secretary has entered into a contract with under subsection (d)(3) of such section 1860D–14B. ; (2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following: (b) Effective date Paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (a) shall apply to covered part D drugs dispensed under this part on or after January 1, 2011, and before January 1, 2022, and paragraphs (4) through (6) of such subsection shall apply to covered part D drugs dispensed on or after January 1, 2022. ; and (3) in subsection (c), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: (2) the Secretary determines that in the period beginning on January 1, 2011, and ending on December 31, 2011 (with respect to paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (a)), or the period beginning on January 1, 2022, and ending December 31, 2022 (with respect to paragraphs (4) through (6) of such subsection), there were extenuating circumstances. . (g) Conforming amendments (1) Section 1860D–2 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102 (A) in subsection (a)(2)(A)(i)(I), by striking , or an increase in the initial or for a year preceding 2022 an increase in the initial (B) in subsection (c)(1)(C)— (i) in the subparagraph heading, by striking at initial coverage limit (ii) by inserting for a year preceding 2022 or the annual out-of-pocket threshold specified in subsection (b)(4)(B) for the year for 2022 and each subsequent year subsection (b)(3) for the year (C) in subsection (d)(1)(A), by striking or an initial or for a year preceding 2022, an initial (2) Section 1860D–4(a)(4)(B)(i) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–104(a)(4)(B)(i) the initial for a year preceding 2022, the initial (3) Section 1860D–14(a) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–114(a) (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in subparagraph (C), by striking The continuation For a year preceding 2022, the continuation (ii) in subparagraph (D)(iii), by striking 1860D–2(b)(4)(A)(i)(I) 1860D–2(b)(4)(A)(i)(I)(aa) (iii) in subparagraph (E), by striking The elimination For a year preceding 2022, the elimination (B) in paragraph (2)— (i) in subparagraph (C), by striking The continuation For a year preceding 2022, the continuation (ii) in subparagraph (E)— (I) by inserting for a year preceding 2022, subsection (c) (II) by striking 1860D– 2(b)(4)(A)(i)(I) 1860D–2(b)(4)(A)(i)(I)(aa) (4) Section 1860D–21(d)(7) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–131(d)(7) section 1860D–2(b)(4)(B)(i) section 1860D–2(b)(4)(C)(i) (5) Section 1860D–22(a)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–132(a)(2)(A) (A) by striking the value of any discount the value of— (i) for years prior to 2022, any discount ; (B) in clause (i), as inserted by subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (C) by adding at the end the following new clause: (ii) for 2022 and each subsequent year, any discount provided pursuant to section 1860D–14B. . (6) Section 1860D–41(a)(6) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–151(a)(6) (A) by inserting for a year before 2022 1860D–2(b)(3) (B) by inserting for such year (h) Effective date The amendments made by this section shall apply to plan year 2022 and subsequent plan years. 112. Transitional coverage and retroactive Medicare part D coverage for certain low-income beneficiaries Section 1860D–14 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–114 (1) by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (f); and (2) by adding after subsection (d) the following new subsection: (e) Limited income newly eligible transition program (1) In general Beginning not later than January 1, 2021, the Secretary shall carry out a program to provide transitional coverage for covered part D drugs for LI NET eligible individuals in accordance with this subsection. (2) LI net eligible individual defined For purposes of this subsection, the term LI NET eligible individual (A) meets the requirements of clauses (ii) and (iii) of subsection (a)(3)(A); and (B) has not yet enrolled in a prescription drug plan or an MA–PD plan, or, who has so enrolled, but with respect to whom coverage under such plan has not yet taken effect. (3) Transitional coverage For purposes of this subsection, the term transitional coverage (A) immediate access to covered part D drugs at the point-of-sale during the period that begins on the first day of the month such individual is determined to meet the requirements of clauses (ii) and (iii) of subsection (a)(3)(A) and ends on the date that coverage under a prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan takes effect with respect to such individual; and (B) in the case of an LI NET eligible individual who is a full-benefit dual eligible individual (as defined in section 1935(c)(6)) or a recipient of supplemental security income benefits under title XVI, retroactive coverage (in the form of reimbursement of the amounts that would have been paid under this part had such individual been enrolled in a prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan) of covered part D drugs purchased by such individual during the period that— (i) begins on the date that is the later of— (I) the date that such individual was first eligible for a low-income subsidy under this part; or (II) the date that is 36 months prior to the date such individual enrolls in a prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan; and (ii) ends on the date that coverage under such plan takes effect. (4) Program administration (A) Single point of contact The Secretary shall, to the extent feasible, administer the program under this subsection through a contract with a single program administrator. (B) Benefit design The Secretary shall ensure that the transitional coverage provided to LI NET eligible individuals under this subsection— (i) provides access to all covered part D drugs under an open formulary; (ii) permits all pharmacies determined by the Secretary to be in good standing to process claims under the program; (iii) is consistent with such requirements as the Secretary considers necessary to improve patient safety and ensure appropriate dispensing of medication; and (iv) meets such other requirements as the Secretary may establish. (5) Relationship to other provisions of this title; waiver authority (A) In general The following provisions shall not apply with respect to the program under this subsection: (i) Paragraphs (1) and (3)(B) of section 1860D–4(a) (dissemination of general information; availability of information on changes in formulary through the internet). (ii) Subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 1860D–4(b)(3) (development and revision by a pharmacy and therapeutic committee; formulary development). (iii) Paragraphs (1)(C) and (2) of section 1860D–4(c) (medication therapy management program). (B) Waiver authority The Secretary may waive such other requirements of title XI and this title as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the program established under this subsection. . 113. Allowing the offering of additional prescription drug plans under Medicare part D (a) Rescinding and issuance of new guidance Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (in this section referred to as the Secretary (1) rescind sections of any sub-regulatory guidance that limit the number of prescription drug plans in each PDP region that may be offered by a PDP sponsor under part D of title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–101 (2) issue new guidance specifying that a PDP sponsor may offer up to 4 (or a greater number if determined appropriate by the Secretary) prescription drug plans in each PDP region, except in cases where the PDP sponsor may offer up to 2 additional plans in a PDP region pursuant to section 1860D–11(d)(4) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–111(d)(4) (b) Offering of additional plans Section 1860D–11(d) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–111(d) (4) Offering of additional plans (A) In general For plan year 2022 and each subsequent plan year, a PDP sponsor may offer up to 2 additional prescription drug plans in a PDP region (in addition to any limit established by the Secretary under this part) provided that the PDP sponsor complies with subparagraph (B) with respect to at least one such prescription drug plan. (B) Requirements In order to be eligible to offer up to 2 additional plans in a PDP region pursuant to subparagraph (A), a PDP sponsor must ensure that, with respect to at least one such prescription drug plan, the sponsor or any entity that provides pharmacy benefits management services under a contract with any such sponsor or plan does not receive direct or indirect remuneration, as defined in section 423.308 of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation), unless at least 25 percent of the aggregate reductions in price or other remuneration received by the PDP sponsor or entity from drug manufacturers with respect to the plan and plan year— (i) are reflected at the point-of-sale to the enrollee; or (ii) are used to reduce total beneficiary cost-sharing estimated by the PDP sponsor for prescription drug coverage under the plan in the annual bid submitted by the PDP sponsor under section 1860D–11(b). (C) Definition of reductions in price For purposes of subparagraph (B), the term reductions in price . (c) Rule of construction Nothing in the provisions of, or amendments made by, this section shall be construed as limiting the ability of the Secretary to increase any limit otherwise applicable on the number of prescription drug plans that a PDP sponsor may offer, at the discretion of the PDP sponsor, in a PDP region under part D of title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–101 114. Allowing certain enrollees of prescription drug plans and MA–PD plans under the Medicare program to spread out cost-sharing under certain circumstances (a) Standard prescription drug coverage Section 1860D–2(b)(2) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102(b)(2) (1) in subparagraph (A), by striking Subject to subparagraphs (C) and (D) Subject to subparagraphs (C), (D), and (E) (2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (E) Enrollee option regarding spreading cost-sharing (i) In general The Secretary shall establish by regulation a process under which, with respect to plan year 2022 and subsequent plan years, a prescription drug plan or an MA–PD plan shall, in the case of a part D eligible individual enrolled with such plan for such plan year with respect to whom the plan projects that the dispensing of a covered part D drug to such individual will result in the individual incurring costs within a 30-day period that are equal to a significant percentage (as specified by the Secretary pursuant to such regulation) of the annual out-of-pocket threshold specified in paragraph (4)(B) for such plan year, provide such individual with the option to make the coinsurance payment required under subparagraph (A) for such costs in the form of equal monthly installments over the remainder of such plan year. (ii) Significant percentage limitations In specifying a significant percentage pursuant to the regulation established by the Secretary under clause (i), the Secretary shall not specify a percentage that is less than 30 percent or greater than 100 percent. . (b) Alternative prescription drug coverage Section 1860D–2(c) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102(c) (4) Same enrollee option regarding spreading cost-sharing For plan year 2022 and subsequent plan years, the coverage provides the enrollee option regarding spreading cost-sharing described in and required under subsection (b)(2)(E). . 115. Establishing a monthly cap on beneficiary incurred costs for insulin products and supplies under a prescription drug plan or MA–PD plan (a) In general Section 1860D–2 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102 (1) in subsection (b)(2)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking and (E) (E), and (F) (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking and (D) (D), and (F) (C) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (F) Cap on incurred costs for insulin products and supplies (i) In general The coverage provides benefits, for costs above the annual deductible specified in paragraph (1) and up to the annual out-of-pocket threshold described in paragraph (4)(B) and with respect to a month (beginning with January of 2022), with cost sharing that is equal to $0 for a specified covered part D drug (as defined in clause (iii)) furnished to an individual who has incurred costs during such month with respect to specified covered part D drugs equal to— (I) for months occurring in 2022, $50; or (II) for months occurring in a subsequent year, the amount applicable under this clause for months occurring in the year preceding such subsequent year, increased by the annual percentage increase specified in paragraph (6) for such subsequent year and rounded to the nearest dollar. (ii) Application The provisions of clauses (i) through (iii) of paragraph (4)(C) shall apply with respect to the determination of the incurred costs for specified covered part D drugs for purposes of clause (i) in the same manner as such provisions apply with respect to the determination of incurred costs for covered part D drugs for purposes of paragraph (4)(A). (iii) Specified covered part D drug For purposes of this subparagraph, the term specified covered part D drug (I) insulin; or (II) a medical supply associated with the injection of insulin (as defined in regulations of the Secretary promulgated pursuant to subsection (e)(1)(B)). ; and (2) in subsection (c), by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (5) Same protection with respect to expenditures for insulin and certain medical supplies The coverage provides the coverage required under subsection (b)(2)(F). . (b) Conforming amendments (1) In general Section 1860D–14(a)(1)(D) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–114(a)(1)(D) (A) in clause (ii), by striking section 1860D–2(b)(2) section 1860D–2(b)(2)(A) (B) in clause (iii), by striking section 1860D–2(b)(2) section 1860D–2(b)(2)(A) (2) Effective date The amendments made by paragraph (1) shall apply with respect to plan year 2022 and each subsequent plan year. 116. Growth rate of Medicare part D out-of-pocket cost threshold (a) Providing Medicare part D beneficiaries with certain 2020 offset payments Section 1860D–2(b)(4) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102(b)(4) (F) 2020 offset payments (i) In general Subject to clause (iv), the Secretary shall provide for payment from the Medicare Prescription Drug Account as follows: (I) In the case of a specified individual (as defined in clause (ii)(I)) who as of the last day of a calendar quarter in 2020 has incurred costs for covered part D drugs so that the individual has exceeded the annual out-of-pocket threshold applied under subparagraph (B)(i)(V) for 2020, payment to the individual by not later than 15th day of the third month following the end of such quarter of the amount by which such threshold so applied exceeded the target threshold for 2020. (II) In the case of a specified individual who is not described in subclause (I) and who as of the last day of 2020 has incurred costs for covered part D drugs so that the individual has exceeded the target threshold for 2020, payment to the individual by not later than December 31, 2021, of the amount by which such incurred costs exceeded the target threshold for 2020. (ii) Definitions For purposes of this subparagraph: (I) Specified individual The term specified individual (aa) is enrolled in a prescription drug plan or an MA– PD plan; (bb) is not enrolled in a qualified retiree prescription drug plan; and (cc) is not entitled to an income-related subsidy under section 1860D–14(a). (II) Target threshold for 2020 The term target threshold for 2020 (iii) Notification In the case of any specified individual who during 2020 has incurred costs for covered part D drugs so that the individual has exceeded the target threshold for 2020, the Secretary shall, not later than September 30, 2021, provide to such individual a notification informing such individual of such individual’s right to a payment described in clause (i) and the estimated timing of such payment. (iv) Clarification The Secretary shall provide only 1 payment under this subparagraph with respect to any individual. (v) Implementation The Secretary may implement this subparagraph by program instruction or otherwise. . (b) Reduced growth rate for 2021 of Medicare part D out-of-Pocket cost threshold Section 1860D–2(b)(4)(B)(i) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–102(b)(4)(B)(i) (1) in subclause (V), by striking at the end or (2) by redesignating subclause (VI) as subclause (VIII); and (3) by inserting after subclause (V) the following new subclauses: (VI) for 2021, is equal to the amount that would have been applied under this subparagraph for 2020 if such amount had been determined in accordance with subclause (IV) instead of subclause (V), increased by the lesser of— (aa) the annual percentage increase described in paragraph (7) for 2021, plus 2 percentage points; or (bb) the annual percentage increase described in paragraph (6) for 2021; (VII) for 2022, is equal to the amount that would have been applied under this subparagraph for 2022 if the amendments made by section 1101(d)(1) of the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 and by section 135 of the Lower Costs, More Cures Act of 2019 had not been enacted; or . 117. Requiring prescription drug plan sponsors to include real-time benefit information as part of such sponsor’s electronic prescription program under the Medicare program Section 1860D–4(e)(2) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–104(e)(2) (1) in subparagraph (D), by striking To the extent Except as provided in subparagraph (F), to the extent (2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (F) Real-time benefit information (i) In general Not later than January 1, 2021, the program shall implement real-time benefit tools that are capable of integrating with a prescribing health care professional’s electronic prescribing or electronic health record system for the transmission of formulary and benefit information in real time to prescribing health care professionals. With respect to a covered part D drug, such tools shall be capable of transmitting such information specific to an individual enrolled in a prescription drug plan. Such information shall include the following: (I) A list of any clinically appropriate alternatives to such drug included in the formulary of such plan. (II) Cost-sharing information for such drug and such alternatives, including a description of any variance in cost-sharing based on the pharmacy dispensing of such drug or such alternatives. (III) Information relating to whether such drug is included in the formulary of such plan and any prior authorization or other utilization management requirements applicable to such drug and such alternatives so included. (ii) Electronic transmission The provisions of subclauses (I) and (II) of clause (ii) of subparagraph (E) shall apply to an electronic transmission described in clause (i) in the same manner as such provisions apply with respect to an electronic transmission described in clause (i) of such subparagraph. (iii) Special rule for 2021 The program shall be deemed to be in compliance with clause (i) for 2021 if the program complies with the provisions of section 423.160(b)(7) of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation), for such year. (iv) Rule of construction Nothing in this subparagraph shall be construed as to allow a real-time benefits tool to steer an individual, without the consent of the individual, to a particular pharmacy or pharmacy setting over their preferred pharmacy setting nor prohibit the designation of a preferred pharmacy under such tool. . 118. Requiring prescription drug plans and MA–PD plans to report potential fraud, waste, and abuse to the Secretary of HHS Section 1860D–4 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–104 (p) Reporting potential fraud, waste, and abuse Beginning January 1, 2021, the PDP sponsor of a prescription drug plan shall report to the Secretary, as specified by the Secretary— (1) any substantiated or suspicious activities (as defined by the Secretary) with respect to the program under this part as it relates to fraud, waste, and abuse; and (2) any steps made by the PDP sponsor after identifying such activities to take corrective actions. . 119. Establishment of pharmacy quality measures under Medicare part D Section 1860D–4(c) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–104(c) (8) Application of pharmacy quality measures (A) In general A PDP sponsor that implements incentive payments to a pharmacy or price concessions paid by a pharmacy based on quality measures shall use measures established or approved by the Secretary under subparagraph (B) with respect to payment for covered part D drugs dispensed by such pharmacy. (B) Standard pharmacy quality measures The Secretary shall establish or approve standard quality measures from a consensus and evidence-based organization for payments described in subparagraph (A). Such measures shall focus on patient health outcomes and be based on proven criteria measuring pharmacy performance. (C) Effective date The requirement under subparagraph (A) shall take effect for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2023, or such earlier date specified by the Secretary if the Secretary determines there are sufficient measures established or approved under subparagraph (B) to meet the requirement under subparagraph (A). . II Drug Price Transparency 201. Reporting on explanation for drug price increases (a) In general Title XI of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1301 1128L. Drug price reporting (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Manufacturer The term manufacturer (A) that holds the application for a drug approved under section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or licensed under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act; or (B) who is responsible for setting the wholesale acquisition cost for the drug. (2) Qualifying drug The term qualifying drug (A) that has a wholesale acquisition cost of $100 or more, adjusted for inflation occurring after the date of enactment of this section, for a month’s supply or a typical course of treatment that lasts less than a month, and is— (i) subject to section 503(b)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; (ii) administered or otherwise dispensed to treat a disease or condition affecting more than 200,000 persons in the United States; and (iii) not a vaccine; and (B) for which, during the previous calendar year, at least 1 dollar of the total amount of sales were for individuals enrolled under the Medicare program under title XVIII or under a State Medicaid plan under title XIX or under a waiver of such plan. (3) Wholesale acquisition cost The term wholesale acquisition cost (b) Report (1) Report required The manufacturer of a qualifying drug shall submit a report to the Secretary— (A) for each increase in the price of a qualifying drug that results in an increase in the wholesale acquisition cost of that drug that is equal to— (i) 10 percent or more within a single calendar year beginning on or after January 1, 2019; or (ii) 25 percent or more within three consecutive calendar years for which the first such calendar year begins on or after January 1, 2019; and (B) in the case that the qualifying drug is first covered under title XVIII with respect to an applicable year, if the estimated cost or spending under such title per individual or per user of such drug (as estimated by the Secretary) for such applicable year (or per course of treatment in such applicable year, as defined by the Secretary) is at least $26,000. (2) Report deadline Each report described in paragraph (1) shall be submitted to the Secretary— (A) in the case of a report with respect to an increase in the price of a qualifying drug that occurs during the period beginning on January 1, 2019, and ending on the day that is 60 days after the date of enactment of this section, not later than 90 days after such date of enactment; (B) in the case of a report with respect to an increase in the price of a qualifying drug that occurs after the period described in subparagraph (A), not later than 30 days prior to the planned effective date of such price increase for such qualifying drug; and (C) in the case of a report with respect to a qualifying drug that meets the criteria described in paragraph (1)(B), not later than 30 days after such drug meets such criteria. (c) Contents A report under subsection (b), consistent with the standard for disclosures described in section 213.3(d) of title 12, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this section), shall, at a minimum, include— (1) with respect to the qualifying drug— (A) the percentage by which the manufacturer will raise the wholesale acquisition cost of the drug within the calendar year or three consecutive calendar years as described in subsection (b)(1)(A) or (b)(1)(B), if applicable, and the effective date of such price increase; (B) an explanation for, and description of, each price increase for such drug that will occur during the calendar year period described in subsection (b)(1)(A) or the three consecutive calendar year period described in subsection (b)(1)(B), as applicable; (C) if known and different from the manufacturer of the qualifying drug, the identity of— (i) the sponsor or sponsors of any investigational new drug applications under section 505(i) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act for clinical investigations with respect to such drug, for which the full reports are submitted as part of the application— (I) for approval of the drug under section 505 of such Act; or (II) for licensure of the drug under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act; and (ii) the sponsor of an application for the drug approved under such section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or licensed under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act; (D) a description of the history of the manufacturer’s price increases for the drug since the approval of the application for the drug under section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the issuance of the license for the drug under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act, or since the manufacturer acquired such approved application or license, if applicable; (E) the current wholesale acquisition cost of the drug; (F) the total expenditures of the manufacturer on— (i) materials and manufacturing for such drug; and (ii) acquiring patents and licensing for such drug; (G) the percentage of total expenditures of the manufacturer on research and development for such drug that was derived from Federal funds; (H) the total expenditures of the manufacturer on research and development for such drug that is necessary to demonstrate that it meets applicable statutory standards for approval under section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or licensure under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act, as applicable; (I) the total expenditures of the manufacturer on pursuing new or expanded indications or dosage changes for such drug under section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or section 351 of the Public Health Service Act; (J) the total expenditures of the manufacturer on carrying out postmarket requirements related to such drug, including under section 505(o)(3) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; (K) the total revenue and the net profit generated from the qualifying drug for each calendar year since the approval of the application for the drug under section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the issuance of the license for the drug under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act, or since the manufacturer acquired such approved application or license; and (L) the total costs associated with marketing and advertising for the qualifying drug; (2) with respect to the manufacturer— (A) the total revenue and the net profit of the manufacturer for each of the 1-year period described in subsection (b)(1)(A) or the 3-year period described in subsection (b)(1)(B), as applicable; (B) all stock-based performance metrics used by the manufacturer to determine executive compensation for each of the 1-year period described in subsection (b)(1)(A) or the 3-year period described in subsection (b)(1)(B), as applicable; and (C) any additional information the manufacturer chooses to provide related to drug pricing decisions, such as total expenditures on— (i) drug research and development; or (ii) clinical trials, including on drugs that failed to receive approval by the Food and Drug Administration; and (3) such other related information as the Secretary considers appropriate and as specified by the Secretary through notice-and-comment rulemaking. (d) Information provided The manufacturer of a qualifying drug that is required to submit a report under subsection (b), shall ensure that such report and any explanation for, and description of, each price increase described in subsection (c)(1)(B) shall be truthful, not misleading, and accurate. (e) Civil monetary penalty Any manufacturer of a qualifying drug that fails to submit a report for the drug as required by this section, following notification by the Secretary to the manufacturer that the manufacturer is not in compliance with this section, shall be subject to a civil monetary penalty of $75,000 for each day on which the violation continues. (f) False information Any manufacturer that submits a report for a drug as required by this section that knowingly provides false information in such report is subject to a civil monetary penalty in an amount not to exceed $75,000 for each item of false information. (g) Public posting (1) In general Subject to paragraph (3), the Secretary shall post each report submitted under subsection (b) on the public website of the Department of Health and Human Services the day the price increase of a qualifying drug is scheduled to go into effect. (2) Format In developing the format in which reports will be publicly posted under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with stakeholders, including beneficiary groups, and shall seek feedback from consumer advocates and readability experts on the format and presentation of the content of such reports to ensure that such reports are— (A) user-friendly to the public; and (B) written in plain language that consumers can readily understand. (3) Protected information Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the public disclosure of information submitted by a manufacturer that is prohibited from disclosure by applicable laws concerning the protection of trade secrets, commercial information, and other information covered under such laws. (h) Annual report to Congress (1) In General Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall submit to Congress, and post on the public website of the Department of Health and Human Services in a way that is user-friendly to the public and written in plain language that consumers can readily understand, an annual report— (A) summarizing the information reported pursuant to this section; (B) including copies of the reports and supporting detailed economic analyses submitted pursuant to this section; (C) detailing the costs and expenditures incurred by the Department of Health and Human Services in carrying out this section; and (D) explaining how the Department of Health and Human Services is improving consumer and provider information about drug value and drug price transparency. (2) Protected information Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to authorize the public disclosure of information submitted by a manufacturer that is prohibited from disclosure by applicable laws concerning the protection of trade secrets, commercial information, and other information covered under such laws. . (b) Effective date The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act. 202. Public disclosure of drug discounts Section 1150A of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1320b–23 (1) in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting (other than as permitted under subsection (e)) disclosed by the Secretary (2) by adding at the end the following new subsection: (e) Public availability of certain information (1) In general In order to allow the comparison of PBMs’ ability to negotiate rebates, discounts, direct and indirect remuneration fees, administrative fees, and price concessions and the amount of such rebates, discounts, direct and indirect remuneration fees, administrative fees, and price concessions that are passed through to plan sponsors, beginning January 1, 2020, the Secretary shall make available on the Internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services the information with respect to the second preceding calendar year provided to the Secretary on generic dispensing rates (as described in paragraph (1) of subsection (b)) and information provided to the Secretary under paragraphs (2) and (3) of such subsection that, as determined by the Secretary, is with respect to each PBM. (2) Availability of data In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure the following: (A) Confidentiality The information described in such paragraph is displayed in a manner that prevents the disclosure of information, with respect to an individual drug or an individual plan, on rebates, discounts, direct and indirect remuneration fees, administrative fees, and price concessions. (B) Class of drug The information described in such paragraph is made available by class of drug, using an existing classification system, but only if the class contains such number of drugs, as specified by the Secretary (but not fewer than three drugs), to ensure confidentiality of proprietary information or other information that is prevented to be disclosed under subparagraph (A). . 203. Requiring certain manufacturers to report drug pricing information with respect to drugs under the Medicare program (a) In general Section 1847A of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–3a (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting or subsection (f)(2), as applicable (B) in paragraph (3), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting or subsection (f)(2), as applicable, determined by (C) in paragraph (6)(A), in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting or subsection (f)(2), as applicable, determined by (2) in subsection (f)— (A) by striking For requirements (1) In general For requirements ; and (B) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (2) Manufacturers without a rebate agreement under title XIX (A) In general If the manufacturer of a drug or biological described in subparagraph (C), (E), or (G) of section 1842(o)(1) or in section 1881(b)(14)(B) that is payable under this part has not entered into and does not have in effect a rebate agreement described in subsection (b) of section 1927, for calendar quarters beginning on or after January 1, 2020, such manufacturer shall report to the Secretary the information described in subsection (b)(3)(A)(iii) of such section 1927 with respect to such drug or biological in a time and manner specified by the Secretary. For purposes of applying this paragraph, a drug or biological described in the previous sentence includes items, services, supplies, and products that are payable under this part as a drug or biological. (B) Audit Information reported under subparagraph (A) is subject to audit by the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services. (C) Verification The Secretary may survey wholesalers and manufacturers that directly distribute drugs described in subparagraph (A), when necessary, to verify manufacturer prices and manufacturer’s average sales prices (including wholesale acquisition cost) if required to make payment reported under subparagraph (A). The Secretary may impose a civil monetary penalty in an amount not to exceed $100,000 on a wholesaler, manufacturer, or direct seller, if the wholesaler, manufacturer, or direct seller of such a drug refuses a request for information about charges or prices by the Secretary in connection with a survey under this subparagraph or knowingly provides false information. The provisions of section 1128A (other than subsections (a) (with respect to amounts of penalties or additional assessments) and (b)) shall apply to a civil money penalty under this subparagraph in the same manner as such provisions apply to a penalty or proceeding under section 1128A(a). (D) Confidentiality Notwithstanding any other provision of law, information disclosed by manufacturers or wholesalers under this paragraph (other than the wholesale acquisition cost for purposes of carrying out this section) is confidential and shall not be disclosed by the Secretary in a form which discloses the identity of a specific manufacturer or wholesaler or prices charged for drugs by such manufacturer or wholesaler, except— (i) as the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out this section (including the determination and implementation of the payment amount), or to carry out section 1847B; (ii) to permit the Comptroller General of the United States to review the information provided; and (iii) to permit the Director of the Congressional Budget Office to review the information provided. . (b) Enforcement Section 1847A of such Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–3a (1) in subsection (d)(4)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking In general Misrepresentation (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking subparagraph (B) subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) (C) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph (D); and (D) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraphs: (B) Failure to provide timely information If the Secretary determines that a manufacturer described in subsection (f)(2) has failed to report on information described in section 1927(b)(3)(A)(iii) with respect to a drug or biological in accordance with such subsection, the Secretary shall apply a civil money penalty in an amount of $10,000 for each day the manufacturer has failed to report such information and such amount shall be paid to the Treasury. (C) False information Any manufacturer required to submit information under subsection (f)(2) that knowingly provides false information is subject to a civil money penalty in an amount not to exceed $100,000 for each item of false information. Such civil money penalties are in addition to other penalties as may be prescribed by law. ; and (2) in subsection (c)(6)(A), by striking the period at the end and inserting , except that, for purposes of subsection (f)(2), the Secretary may, if the Secretary determines appropriate, exclude repackagers of a drug or biological from such term. (c) Manufacturers with a rebate agreement (1) In general Section 1927(b)(3)(A) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396r–8(b)(3)(A) For purposes of applying clause (iii), a drug or biological described in the flush matter following such clause includes items, services, supplies, and products that are payable under this part as a drug or biological. (2) Technical amendment Section 1927(b)(3)(A)(iii) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396r–8(b)(3)(A)(iii) section 1881(b)(13)(A)(ii) section 1881(b)(14)(B) (d) Report Not later than January 1, 2021, the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services shall assess and submit to Congress a report on the accuracy of average sales price information submitted by manufacturers under section 1847A of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–3a 204. Making prescription drug marketing sample information reported by manufacturers available to certain individuals and entities (a) In general Section 1128H of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1320a–7i (1) by redesignating subsection (b) as subsection (e); and (2) by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsections: (b) Data sharing agreements (1) In general The Secretary shall enter into agreements with the specified data sharing individuals and entities described in paragraph (2) under which— (A) upon request of such an individual or entity, as applicable, the Secretary makes available to such individual or entity the information submitted under subsection (a) by manufacturers and authorized distributors of record; and (B) such individual or entity agrees to not disclose publicly or to another individual or entity any information that identifies a particular practitioner or health care facility. (2) Specified data sharing individuals and entities For purposes of paragraph (1), the specified data sharing individuals and entities described in this paragraph are the following: (A) Oversight agencies Health oversight agencies (as defined in section 164.501 of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations), including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Government Accountability Office, the Congressional Budget Office, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, and the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission. (B) Researchers Individuals who conduct scientific research (as defined in section 164.501 of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations) in relevant areas as determined by the Secretary. (C) Payers Private and public health care payers, including group health plans, health insurance coverage offered by health insurance issuers, Federal health programs, and State health programs. (3) Exemption from Freedom of Information Act Except as described in paragraph (1), the Secretary may not be compelled to disclose the information submitted under subsection (a) to any individual or entity. For purposes of section 552 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Freedom of Information Act), this paragraph shall be considered a statute described in subsection (b)(3)(B) of such section. (c) Penalties (1) Data sharing agreements Subject to paragraph (3), any specified data sharing individual or entity described in subsection (b)(2) that violates the terms of a data sharing agreement the individual or entity has with the Secretary under subsection (b)(1) shall be subject to a civil money penalty of not less than $1,000, but not more than $10,000, for each such violation. Such penalty shall be imposed and collected in the same manner as civil money penalties under subsection (a) of section 1128A are imposed and collected under that section. (2) Failure to report Subject to paragraph (3), any manufacturer or authorized distributor of record of an applicable drug under subsection (a) that fails to submit information required under such subsection in a timely manner in accordance with rules or regulations promulgated to carry out such subsection shall be subject to a civil money penalty of not less than $1,000, but not more than $10,000, for each such failure. Such penalty shall be imposed and collected in the same manner as civil money penalties under subsection (a) of section 1128A are imposed and collected under that section. (3) Limitation The total amount of civil money penalties imposed under paragraph (1) or (2) with respect to a year and an individual or entity described in paragraph (1) or a manufacturer or distributor described in paragraph (2), respectively, shall not exceed $150,000. (d) Drug sample distribution information (1) In general Not later than January 1 of each year (beginning with 2021), the Secretary shall maintain a list containing information related to the distribution of samples of applicable drugs. Such list shall provide the following information with respect to the preceding year: (A) The name of the manufacturer or authorized distributor of record of an applicable drug for which samples were requested or distributed under this section. (B) The quantity and class of drug samples requested. (C) The quantity and class of drug samples distributed. (2) Public availability The Secretary shall make the information in such list available to the public on the Internet website of the Food and Drug Administration. . (b) FDA maintenance of information The Food and Drug Administration shall maintain information available to affected reporting companies to ensure their ability to fully comply with the requirements of section 1128H of the Social Security Act. (c) Prohibition on distribution of samples of opioids Section 503(d) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act ( 21 U.S.C. 353(d) (1) by moving the margin of paragraph (4) 2 ems to the left; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (5) No person may distribute a drug sample of a drug that is— (A) an applicable drug (as defined in section 1128H(e) of the Social Security Act); (B) a controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act) for which the findings required under section 202(b)(2) of such Act have been made; and (C) approved under section 505 for use in the management or treatment of pain (other than for the management or treatment of a substance use disorder). . (d) MedPAC report Not later than 3 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission shall conduct a study on the impact of drug samples on provider prescribing practices and health care costs and may, as the Commission deems appropriate, make recommendations on such study. 205. Providing the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission and Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission with access to certain drug payment information, including certain rebate information (a) Access to certain part D payment data Section 1860D–15(f) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395w–115(f) (1) in paragraph (2)— (A) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking and (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (C) by inserting at the end the following new subparagraph: (C) by the Executive Director of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission for purposes of monitoring, making recommendations, and analysis of the program under this title and by the Executive Director of the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission for purposes of monitoring, making recommendations, and analysis of the Medicaid program established under title XIX and the Children’s Health Insurance Program under title XXI. ; and (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (3) Additional restrictions on disclosure of information The Executive Directors described in paragraph (2)(C) shall not disclose any of the following information disclosed to such Executive Directors or obtained by such Executive Directors pursuant to such paragraph, with respect to a prescription drug plan offered by a PDP sponsor or an MA–PD plan offered by an MA organization: (A) The specific amounts or the identity of the source of any rebates, price concessions, or other forms of direct or indirect remuneration under such prescription drug plan or such MA–PD plan. (B) Information submitted with the bid submitted under section 1860D–11 by such PDP sponsor or section 1854 by such MA organization. (C) In the case of such information from prescription drug event records, in a form that would not be permitted under section 423.505(m) of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation, if made by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. . (b) Access to certain rebate and payment data under Medicare and Medicaid Section 1927(b)(3)(D) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396r–8(b)(3)(D) (1) in the matter before clause (i), by striking subsection (a)(6)(A)(ii) subsection (a)(6)(A) (2) in clause (v), by striking and (3) in clause (vi), by striking the period at the end and inserting , and (4) by inserting after clause (vi) the following new clause: (vii) to permit the Executive Director of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission and the Executive Director of the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission to review the information provided. ; (5) in the matter at the end, by striking 1860D–4(c)(2)(E) 1860D–4(c)(2)(G) (6) by adding at the end the following new sentence: Any information disclosed to the Executive Director of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission or the Executive Director of the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission pursuant to this subparagraph shall not be disclosed by either such Executive Director in a form which discloses the identity of a specific manufacturer or wholesaler or prices charged for drugs by such manufacturer or wholesaler. 206. Sense of the Senate regarding the need to expand commercially available drug pricing comparison platforms It is the sense of the Senate that— (1) commercially available drug pricing comparison platforms can, at no cost, help patients find the lowest price for their medications at their local pharmacy; (2) such platforms should be integrated, to the maximum extent possible, in the health care delivery ecosystem; and (3) pharmacy benefit managers should work to disclose generic and brand name drug prices to such platforms to ensure that— (A) patients can benefit from the lowest possible price available to them; and (B) overall drug prices can be reduced as more educated purchasing decisions are made based on price transparency. III Revenue Provisions 301. Permanent extension of reduction in medical expense deduction floor (a) In general Section 213(a) 10 percent 7.5 percent (b) Conforming amendments (1) Section 213 of such Code is amended by striking subsection (f). (2) Section 56(b)(1) of such Code is amended by striking subparagraph (B) and by redesignating subparagraphs (C), (D), (E), and (F), as subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), and (E), respectively. (c) Effective date The amendment made by this section shall apply to taxable years ending after December 31, 2018. 302. Safe harbor for high deductible health plans without deductible for insulin (a) In general Section 223(c)(2)(C) or for insulin or any device for the delivery of insulin (b) Effective date The amendment made by this section shall apply to months beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act. 303. Inclusion of certain over-the-counter medical products as qualified medical expenses (a) HSAs Section 223(d)(2) (1) by striking the last sentence of subparagraph (A) and inserting the following: For purposes of this subparagraph, amounts paid for menstrual care products shall be treated as paid for medical care. (2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (D) Menstrual care product For purposes of this paragraph, the term menstrual care product . (b) Archer MSAs Section 220(d)(2)(A) of such Code is amended by striking the last sentence and inserting the following: For purposes of this subparagraph, amounts paid for menstrual care products (as defined in section 223(d)(2)(D)) shall be treated as paid for medical care. (c) Health flexible spending arrangements and health reimbursement arrangements Section 106 of such Code is amended by striking subsection (f) and inserting the following new subsection: (f) Reimbursements for menstrual care products For purposes of this section and section 105, expenses incurred for menstrual care products (as defined in section 223(d)(2)(D)) shall be treated as incurred for medical care. . (d) Effective dates (1) Distributions from savings accounts The amendment made by subsections (a) and (b) shall apply to amounts paid after December 31, 2019. (2) Reimbursements The amendment made by subsection (c) shall apply to expenses incurred after December 31, 2019. IV Miscellaneous 401. Improving coordination between the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (a) In general (1) Public meeting (A) In general Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (referred to in this section as the Secretary (B) Attendees The public meeting shall include— (i) representatives of relevant Federal agencies, including representatives from each of the medical product centers within the Food and Drug Administration and representatives from the coding, coverage, and payment offices within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; (ii) stakeholders with expertise in the research and development of novel medical products, including manufacturers of such products; (iii) representatives of commercial health insurance payers; (iv) stakeholders with expertise in the administration and use of novel medical products, including physicians; and (v) stakeholders representing patients and with expertise in the utilization of patient experience data in medical product development. (C) Topics The public meeting shall include a discussion of— (i) the status of the drug and medical device development pipeline related to the availability of novel medical products; (ii) the anticipated expertise necessary to review the safety and effectiveness of such products at the Food and Drug Administration and current gaps in such expertise, if any; (iii) the expertise necessary to make coding, coverage, and payment decisions with respect to such products within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and current gaps in such expertise, if any; (iv) trends in the differences in the data necessary to determine the safety and effectiveness of a novel medical product and the data necessary to determine whether a novel medical product meets the reasonable and necessary requirements for coverage and payment under title XVIII of the Social Security Act pursuant to section 1862(a)(1)(A) of such Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395y(a)(1)(A) (v) the availability of information for sponsors of such novel medical products to meet each of those requirements; and (vi) the coordination of information related to significant clinical improvement over existing therapies for patients between the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services with respect to novel medical products. (D) Trade secrets and confidential information No information discussed as a part of the public meeting under this paragraph shall be construed as authorizing the Secretary to disclose any information that is a trade secret or confidential information subject to section 552(b)(4) of title 5, United States Code. (2) Improving transparency of criteria for Medicare coverage (A) Draft guidance Not later than 18 months after the public meeting under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall update the final guidance titled National Coverage Determinations with Data Collection as a Condition of Coverage: Coverage with Evidence Development (B) Final guidance Not later than 12 months after issuing draft guidance under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall finalize the updated guidance to address any such opportunities. (b) Report on coding, coverage, and payment processes under medicare for novel medical products Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish a report on the Internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services regarding processes under the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 (1) A description of challenges in the coding, coverage, and payment processes under the Medicare program for novel medical products. (2) Recommendations to— (A) incorporate patient experience data (such as the impact of a disease or condition on the lives of patients and patient treatment preferences) into the coverage and payment processes within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; (B) decrease the length of time to make national and local coverage determinations under the Medicare program (as those terms are defined in subparagraph (A) and (B), respectively, of section 1862(l)(6) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395y(l)(6) (C) streamline the coverage process under the Medicare program and incorporate input from relevant stakeholders into such coverage determinations; and (D) identify potential mechanisms to incorporate novel payment designs similar to those in development in commercial insurance plans and State plans under title XIX of such Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 (c) Novel medical products described For purposes of this section, a novel medical product described in this subsection is a medical product, including a drug, biological (including gene and cell therapy), or medical device, that has been designated as a breakthrough therapy under section 506(a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act ( 21 U.S.C. 356(a) 21 U.S.C. 360e–3 21 U.S.C. 356(g) 402. Patient consultation in Medicare national and local coverage determinations in order to mitigate barriers to inclusion of such perspectives Section 1862(l) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395y(l) (7) Patient consultation in national and local coverage determinations The Secretary may consult with patients and organizations representing patients in making national and local coverage determinations. . 403. MedPAC report on shifting coverage of certain Medicare part B drugs to Medicare part D (a) Study The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (in this section referred to as the Commission 42 U.S.C. 1395j 42 U.S.C. 1395w–21 (1) differences in program structures and payment methods for drugs and biologicals covered under such parts B and D, including effects of such a shift on program spending, beneficiary cost-sharing liability, and utilization management techniques for such drugs and biologicals; and (2) the feasibility and policy implications of shifting coverage of drugs and biologicals for which payment is currently made under such part B to such part D. (b) Report (1) In general Not later than June 30, 2021, the Commission shall submit to Congress a report containing the results of the study conducted under subsection (a). (2) Contents The report under paragraph (1) shall include information, and recommendations as the Commission deems appropriate, regarding— (A) formulary design under such part D; (B) the ability of the benefit structure under such part D to control total spending on drugs and biologicals for which payment is currently made under such part B; (C) changes to the bid process under such part D, if any, that may be necessary to integrate coverage of such drugs and biologicals into such part D; (D) any other changes to the program that Congress should consider in determining whether to shift coverage of such drugs and biologicals from such part B to such part D; and (E) the feasibility and policy implications of creating a methodology to preserve the healthcare provider’s ability to take title of the drug, including a methodology under which— (i) prescription drug plans negotiate reimbursement rates and other arrangements with drug manufacturers on behalf of a wholesaler; (ii) wholesalers purchase the drugs from the manufacturers at the negotiated rate and ship them through distributors to physicians to administer to patients; (iii) physicians and hospitals purchase the drug from the wholesaler via the distributor; (iv) after administering the drug, the physician submits a claim to the MAC for their drug administration fee; (v) to be reimbursed for the purchase of the drug from the distributor, the physician furnishes the claim for the drug itself to the wholesaler and the wholesaler would refund the cost of the drug to the physician; and (vi) the wholesaler passes this claim to the PDP to receive reimbursement. 404. Requirement that direct-to-consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products include truthful and non-misleading pricing information Part A of title XI of the Social Security Act is amended by adding at the end the following new section: 1150C. Requirement that direct-to-consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products include truthful and non-misleading pricing information (a) In general The Secretary shall require that each direct-to-consumer advertisement for a prescription drug or biological product for which payment is available under title XVIII or XIX includes an appropriate disclosure of truthful and non-misleading pricing information with respect to the drug or product. (b) Determination by CMS The Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, shall determine the components of the requirement under subsection (a), such as the forms of advertising, the manner of disclosure, the price point listing, and the price information for disclosure. . 405. Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator at the Office of the United States Trade Representative (a) In general Section 141 of the Trade Act of 1974 ( 19 U.S.C. 2171 (1) in subsection (b)(2)— (A) by striking and one Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator one Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator, and one Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator (B) by striking or the Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator the Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator, or the Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator (C) by striking and the Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator the Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator, and the Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator (2) in subsection (c), by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (7) The principal function of the Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator shall be to conduct trade negotiations and to enforce trade agreements relating to United States pharmaceutical products and services. The Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator shall be a vigorous advocate on behalf of United States pharmaceutical interests. The Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator shall perform such other functions as the United States Trade Representative may direct. . (b) Compensation Section 5314 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by striking Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator, Office of the United States Trade Representative. Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator, Office of the United States Trade Representative. Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator, Office of the United States Trade Representative. . (c) Report required Not later than the date that is one year after the appointment of the first Chief Pharmaceutical Negotiator pursuant to paragraph (2) of section 141(b) of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended by subsection (a), and annually thereafter, the United States Trade Representative shall submit to the Committee on Finance of the Senate and the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives a report describing in detail— (1) enforcement actions taken by the United States Trade Representative during the 1-year period preceding the submission of the report to ensure the protection of United States pharmaceutical products and services; and (2) other actions taken by the United States Trade Representative to advance United States pharmaceutical products and services.

Summary: Lower Costs, More Cures Act of 2019 This bill establishes and modifies several requirements to address prescription drug prices under Medicare. The bill generally limits payment amounts for drugs and biologics under Medicare medical services, reduces cost-sharing under the Medicare prescription drug benefit, and establishes several reporting requirements for drug manufacturers with respect to drug prices.